Chevrolet unveils the 2016 Camaro Convertible
For those who seek the wind-in-the-hair experience, Chevrolet has unveiled the convertible avatar of the iconic Camaro. The American manufacturer says that the entire 'topless' operation is fully automatic. Raising the roof (quite literally) or lowering it into the boot is possible even when the car is in motion, but only at speeds up to 48kmph. A hard tonneau cover forms part of the roof.
The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible has a stiffer and lighter structure than the outgoing model with a 90kg weight reduction. Al Oppenheiser, Camaro's chief engineer said, "From the beginning, the Camaro's architecture was developed to incorporate a convertible with uncompromised driving dynamics. Customers will appreciate what they don't feel; quivers, cowl shake or an under-damped chassis typically found in a four-seat convertible."
The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro will be available in two variants, LT and SS. Engine options include a 2-litre turbo that produces 275PS, a brand new 3.6-litre V6 that generates 335PS and the range topping 6.2-litre V8 that produces 455PS. Each engine can be specced with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Sales of the new Chevrolet Camaro Convertible begin in early 2016.
Chevrolet Lifts Lid on 2016 Camaro Convertible
| DETROIT Let the sun shine in. Chevrolet will offer a convertible model of the all-new 2016 Camaro, featuring the segment's most advanced top. The 2016 Camaro is the only convertible in the segment to offer all of the following: Fully automatic operation with latches that automatically release and secure the top Capability of opening or closing at speeds up to 30 mph Remote opening with the key fob A hard tonneau cover that deploys automatically, providing a more refined, finished appearance when the top is lowered and stowed. The electro-hydraulic power roof system features multilayer construction including acoustic and thermal barriers designed for a comfortable, quiet driving experience in all seasons. The top emulates the sleek silhouette of the Camaro coupe. "The 2016 Camaro coupe will set the benchmark for the segment in terms of technology, performance and design," said Todd Christensen, Camaro marketing manager. "Adding the most sophisticated top in the segment brings another level of refinement and driving enjoyment to the Camaro convertible." The new Camaro convertible arrives in early 2016. Like the Camaro coupe, the convertible benefits from a stiffer, lighter structure that helps reduce total vehicle weight by at least 200 pounds compared to the model it replaces. Consequently, the Camaro convertible retains the coupe's sharp chassis tuning and nimble reflexes. "From the beginning, the Camaro's architecture was developed to incorporate a convertible with uncompromised driving dynamics," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. "Customers will appreciate what they don't feel: quivers, cowl shake or an under-damped chassis typically found in a four-seat convertible." The architecture also enables the Camaro convertible's sleek design, allowing the top to fold down completely beneath the belt line. The hard tonneau cover automatically covers the folded top, creating a finished appearance. "With many convertibles, you have to affix a tonneau cover manually if it's done at all," said Tom Peters, design director. "The Camaro convertible's automatically deploying hard tonneau not only makes it easier to enjoy convertible driving when the inspiration hits, it ensures the car always looks its best." About the 2016 Camaro The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro offers higher levels of performance, technology and refinement and is designed to maintain the sporty car segment leadership earned over the past five years. Offered in LT and SS models, it provides a faster, more nimble driving experience and a broader powertrain range. Six all-new powertrain combinations are offered, including a 2.0L Turbo rated at an SAE-certified 275 horsepower, an all-new 3.6L V-6 producing and SAE-certified 335 horsepower, and the LT1 6.2L V-8, which is SAE-certified at 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque the most powerful Camaro SS ever. Each engine is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Camaro's leaner, stiffer platform and slightly smaller dimensions are accentuated by a dramatic, sculpted exterior. Meticulously tuned in the wind tunnel, the exterior contributes to performance through reduced aerodynamic lift for better handling, while enhancing highway fuel efficiency. Inside, the driver-focused cabin integrates class-leading control technologies, including a new Driver Mode Selector, configurable instrument cluster and a customizable ambient lighting feature. The 2016 Camaro coupe and convertible will be produced at General Motors' Lansing Grand River assembly plant in Lansing, Mich. For more information on Chevrolet, please visit http://www.chevrolet.com FAST FACT: In 1967 Camaro's first model year the available convertible model came with a manually operated top. A power-operated top was a .70 option selected by 47 percent of buyers. | |
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