2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Has Arrived - First Look

For prospective owners, the Chevy Camaro ZL1 is a long time coming. From the first whispers of a Z28 performance trim two years ago to its formal debut as the ZL1 model at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show (plus an astounding 7:41.27 lap time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife two weeks ago), there hasn’t been this much hype surrounding a bowtie since the invention of the clip-on.

But now it’s here in the flesh, in all of its 580-bhp glory. The blown 6.2-liter LSA V-8 boasts an Eaton TVS supercharger, a water-to-air charge cooler, LS9 head castings, an upgraded fuel system, an improved intake with 30 percent less restriction and cast stainless-steel exhaust manifolds. Torque is an earth-twisting 556 lb.-ft, routed through either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The beefed-up Camaro takes full advantage of its independent rear suspension with revised bushings, a significantly larger rear anti-roll bar and specially tuned MR shock absorbers. The almost psychic Performance Traction Management traction control used in the Corvette ZR1 is now included on the ZL1. Engine, transmission and differential oil coolers are standard, as are brake ducts and an aero tray under the engine. The front and rear fascias, rear spoiler and hood are also trim-specific. All in all, 30 percent of the track-ready ZL1’s parts are new when compared to a base Camaro.

The Camaro ZL1 here is slightly different from a production unit, as it’s the actual checkered prototype that ran the 7:41.27 lap time at the Nürburgring. It’s equipped with safety equipment such as a rollcage, race seats and harnesses, plus telemetry and a fire-suppression system. All the trunk-mounted test equipment added 30 lb. to the car. As a precaution, the fire-suppression system was removed for its U.S. visit. Of the ZL1’s five driving modes, the one used for the blistering Nürburgring lap time was Race, which has Performance Traction Management in its raciest setting.

Mark Reuss, President of GM North America, stopped by our office to show us his new toy…and its impressive tire-smoking capabilities. Says Reuss: “We at Chevy wanted to show that we have the engineering talent and capability to build a high-performance car that’s accessible both on price and everyday drivability. The Camaro ZL1 is proof of that. Few manufacturers can build a car that can run 7:41 around the ’Ring for under $75,000 and still be driven every day with room for your family.”