Chevrolet announces the end of the road for the gas-powered Camaro.
The modern muscle car era is winding down. Ever since the Dodge Challenger returned in 2008 and the Chevrolet Camaro two years later, customers have had three models for their choosing. The third model, of course, is the Ford Mustang.
But the segment is only a shell of its former self. True, hardcore enthusiasts still buy these cars, but not in large enough numbers to sustain them. For 2023, the Dodge Challenger celebrates its final year. And for 2024, the Chevrolet Camaro will do likewise according to an announcement made by GM this week. As for the Mustang, a new generation debuts in 2024, but it will be the last of its kind.
All three models are giving way to electric cars, although the names may not be the same. Indeed, we know that a four-door all-electric Charger will replace the Challenger and the current gas-powered Charger sedan. Also, Chevrolet says that they aren’t done with the Camaro, though the last of the current and sixth-generation Camaro will be produced through January 2024. After that, the brand will step up its pivot to full electrification. We may see the Camaro name affixed to a future EV, perhaps just like Ford has done with the Mustang Mach-E EV.
Return of the Camaro
GM canceled the Chevrolet Camaro and the similar Pontiac Firebird in 2002, due to slow sales. Over the ensuing years, fans clamored for its return. In 2006 and again in 2007, GM showcased Camaro concepts of the coupe and convertible, respectively.
In 2009, an all-new Camaro returned, but without the Pontiac Firebird. Although not yet decided, the Pontiac brand was canceled in 2011 as GM reorganized following bankruptcy. Still, the Camaro garnered much attention and decent demand as sales topped 80,000 units annually for its first five years. Chevrolet offered a standard V6 engine with 6-speed manual and automatic transmission choices. Further, customers had a choice of several V8s, including a 6.2-liter supercharged V8, the same engine powering the Corvette ZL1.
Sixth-Generation Camaro
The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro was introduced for the 2016 model year as a completely redesigned model. It was built on a new platform that was lighter and more rigid than the previous generation, which allowed for improved performance and handling. The latest Camaro shares its underpinnings with two Cadillac sedans – CT4 and CT5.
The 2016 Camaro was offered with a choice of three engines at launch: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a 3.6-liter V6 engine, and a 6.2-liter V8 engine. Again, the Camaro offers manual and automatic transmissions, with power routed to the rear wheels.
Over the ensuing years, the Camaro received several updates and improvements. For example, in 2017, a new 1LE package was introduced for the V6 and V8 models, which included several performance upgrades such as a track-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a limited-slip differential. Then, in 2018, the Camaro received a facelift that included updated styling and new technology features such as a standard rearview camera and an updated infotainment system.
Sharply Falling Sales
However, despite these updates, of the Camaro have been declining since 2015, falling to less than one-third of the previous total. Thus, GM announced that the 2024 model year will be the final year of production for the sixth-generation Camaro.
References
(2021, October 30). A Brief History of the 6th Generation Camaro. Synergy Motorsports.
(2023, March 22). Sixth Generation Camaro Bows Out, Chevrolet Announces Final Collector’s Edition. Chevrolet.
See Also — A Muscle Car Quest With a Twist
Photos copyright GM Corp.
