As Holden is in charge of all new full-size rear-drive development for GM, the Pontiac G8 gives us a taste of what the 2009 Chevrolet Camaro and 2010 Impala will be like.
Zeta is a versatile architecture. The front-axle centerline on the Camaro has been moved about 50mm further forward than it is on the Holden Commodore/ Pontiac G8. The reason for this expensive change is that it allows the Camaro-and the Impala, which will share the same front structure-to run 20-inch wheels without compromising steering lock. Holden says, 24s will fit too.
The Camaro coupe and convertible concepts are therefore close to the production versions. The roof of the coupe will be raised about 15 mm for production, and the body sides will be pulled in 5-10 mm. What you've seen so far is basically what you're going to get in Chevy showrooms in 2009.
Cost has been an issue for Camaro. But GM say entry-level versions will retail from about $21,000. That's because they'll use the cheap-to-build pushrod 3.9-liter V-6 as the entry-level engine. GM Powertrain engineers have been working to improve the refinement of the 3.9. It will come with the six-speed-manual or automatic-it should be a much smoother package than the trucklike 4.0-liter V-6 thats in base Mustangs.
A stretched version of the Impala platform could find its way under replacements for the Cadillac DTS and Buick Lucerne. Rumors are the Buick Velite sedan is back on for 2010, and a DTS replacement may be on the way for 2011. And they may be candidates for the new Ultra V-8.
I'll keep you all posted.
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-----The orginal Mr.Goodwrench on the JBO since 11/99-----
sweet
id keep the width on the camaro though
Another V6 camaro? haha
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Quote:
The reason for this expensive change is that it allows the Camaro-and the Impala, which will share the same front structure-to run 20-inch wheels without compromising steering lock. Holden says, 24s will fit too.
I can see it now, camaros with 12" of ground clearance on 24s.
