From the May 2023 issue of Car and Driver.
What is this
The last Camaro before Chevy replaced it with an EV. This track-focused version is the spiritual successor to the fifth-generation Z/28.
Why It Matters
Among the endless bar arguments about cars, none are hotter than the Camaro over the Mustang. It’s an American rivalry like Ohio State vs. Michigan, Cowboys vs. Eagles, or “Feels great!” versus “Less filling!” After this Camaro, the debate will probably die out.
Platform
Like the current Camaro, the Z/28 rides on GM’s longitudinal engine Alpha platform. The chassis will get spool valve dampers from Multimatic rotors and calipers and carbon ceramics from Brembo. Any and all fat will be trimmed. Big R-comp tires will offer race car-like grip.
Powertrain
We’re expecting the 670-hp LT6 version from the Corvette Z06, which here will be slightly throttled to produce just 650 horsepower. Good. We’d probably go with the 600-hp LT6 if we could get it with a six-speed manual transmission.
competition
A large number of Dodge Challenger models, Ford Mustang Dark Horse, Porsche 718 GT4 RS (although it will probably survive the GT3 RS on the track).
What Could Go Wrong
The plug can be pulled at any time. The last Z/28 didn’t make it off dealer lots, but its status as a durable track toy is practically legendary at this point. Radio and A/C deletions will not be offered this time, and the car will likely come only as a means of streamlining production. Chevy will build a predetermined number (think 1000 or less) and kick itself if it builds too many.
Estimated Arrival and Price
Chevrolet has said that Camaro production will end in 2024, and the Z/28s will be the last off the line, with deliveries starting next fall.
Executive Editor
KC Colwell is Car and Driver’executive editor, who covers cars and new technology with a keen eye for automotive nonsense and with what he considers great automotive taste, which is a point of pride. On his first day at C/D in 2004, he was given the keys to a Porsche 911 by someone who didn’t know if he had a driver’s license. He is also one of the fastest lap drivers C/Dthe annual Lightning Lap track test.
