Chevy Camaro Will Go Into Production By 2009 After Hugely Successful Concept Debut

General Motors scored a major hit with the world's automotive press on Monday, unveiling a stunning reborn version of the classic Chevy Camaro nameplate, but this time with 400 horsepower, 30 miles per gallon on the highway and — most famously — a totally new look.

Camaro loyalists should be even more pleased to hear, according to unofficial word from GM suppliers, that the company plans to revive production of the Camaro in early 2009. GM reportedly plans to build a version of the car on the so-called Zeta Lite platform, which itself is an evolution of the rear-drive Pontiac GTO chassis and should easily accommodate the small-block V8.

GM says the Camaro concept pays homage to the original 1967 Camaro with nods to aircraft like the YF-22 to make it "instantly recognizable as an all-new car."

Officials said the design features a long hood, short deck and wide stance to present a performance appearance, backed up by a 400-hp aluminum small-block V8. Surprisingly, this beast will also offer great mileage as GM's "Active Fuel Management" technology allows drivers to operate with only four of the eight cylinders during highway cruising. This technology is currently featured on GM's Chevy Impala sedan and several 2006 sport-utilities and trucks.

The unveiling was a story in itself as a local marching band led the way for a parade of classic Camaros that snaked through a massive crowd of journalists who lined up early for a good seat.
© edmunds.com