Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Think of this machine as Bumblebee's evil twin because the all new Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is positioned as the hardcore version of the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro, a modern muscle car that was adorned by many thanks to its popularity as Transformers' Bumblebee. This car is a one-track mind, you can use it on the road or you can use it on the track and this ZL1 promises to be quite a thriller for petrolheads around North America.

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is powered by a Supercharged LSA 6.2L engine that produces about 580bhp of power and 556lb-ft of torque. What's more, it can be mated in two transmission types such as the 6-speed Hydra-Matic 6L90 Automatic Transmission and the Tremec 6-speed manual transmission with a revised short-throw shifter. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 Automatic Transmission comes with a TAPshift mode that reduces delay time and aggressive gear changes, making it smooth and silky as a pair of boxers. The 6-speed MT on the ZL1 comes with a revised short-throw shifter that provides smooth transfer on the engine's power and torque. Okay, when it comes to 0-60m time and flatout, the Camaro ZL1 6AT can go for about 3.9 seconds and 184mph while the Camaro ZL1 6MT can go for about 4.0 seconds and 180mph. By results, it seems that the TAPshift technology on the Hydra-Matic 6L90 transmission means that it can do better than the manual variant but it doesn't matter because it lapped the Nurburgring in 7:41.27, that's quicker than the Lamborghini Murcielago SV! What's the secret of the ZL1's success?

The ZL1's suspension comes with the Magnetic Ride Control, the same feature you've encountered from the Corvette and Australia's Holden HSV range, allowing drivers to change the suspension settings; Tour, Sport and Track, providing magnetorheological fluid for damping levels adjusted up to 1,000 times per second. What provides the handling is the Performance Traction Management that takes advantage of the MRC, Launch Control, Traction Control, and Active Handling systems. It was made for lower inertia and friction, creating a direct steering feel and great response. Also, it comes with a Brembo Brake System that provides stopping power that can get yourself out from the tights.

It may look like Bumblebee but this is the bee's evil twin because of its Mohawk hood air extractor, large lower grille openings, and lower splitter, providing aerodynamics for the ZL1. The interior looks the same as the original model but the steering wheel is derived from the Chevrolet Cruze but it has the words ZL1 on it. It even comes served with red stitching provide contrast on the once dark interior but I like that. Red and black is just a menacing combo on the inside. To enjoy the best in music and information, an available SiriusXM Satellite Radio comes served on the ZL1 and the all new Boston Acoustics Premium Nine-Speaker Sound System gives you a top quality audio experience. Imagine if The Stig listens to something nonsense while driving the ZL1 round the Top Gear Test Track...

Seven colors are available for the ZL1 such as Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Black, Victory Red, Rally Yellow, Inferno Orange Metallic, and Ashen Gray Metallic.

My comment:
I was getting a bit more interested on the ZL1 because it lapped the Nurburgring faster than the Lamborghini Murcielago SV but on such stats, it is hopeless to kick the bumper of the 2013 Shelby GT500. Who cares? This is the kind of Camaro that will leave you completely bonkers and this is somewhat the younger brother of the hardcore Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. With prices start at around $54,995 (or in Top Gear math, about 4.3 million Philippine Pesos), the Camaro ZL1 provides you with the 6.2L supercharged engine, Magnetic Ride Control, 6-speed manual, 20-inch rims, and that's it. This ZL1 is the perfect Camaro royalty for the enthusiasts.

Photo: General Motors