Camaro Concept Video Podcast

Great stuff! Would it be possible to have the video of the introduction as well as the video played during the intro on the screens with all the 1st gens, design shots, and what not to get in downloadable format? That would be awesome

The General needs some brave new designs to attract attention to its divisions. The Camaro and the (gulp) Buick Enclave are defnitely steps in the right direction.

It's been a long time, but if the quality is up to par, and the dealer experience is better than I remember, you might convince me to come back.

Bob,
The origional Lemans Blue and a wide set of white 69 racing stripes will go a long way on that concept IMO. Two coworkers want to know when your taking deposits and I want to know when it tours and where.

Camero looks very cool, stylish and hot, but.... I think it is only for these who drive 85 mph, does any one see the Camry 2007 and Civic 2006, it is the kind of cars GM should be making, appealing to mainstream consumers, when I went to the Saturn dealer in state college, pew... Forget about it, I got a Civic, even though feeling a little bit ripped off, but would feel much worse if I went with a Saturn!
Wake up, Mr. Lutz, either make something people like or become Indepence Air who stop running 5 days ago!

Finally, GM seems to be taking steps towards what makes sales...the WOW head turning factor - the Camaro concept is a beuty...make it please and dont skimp on the inside...

Hi there Bob,

What a FANTASTIC experience it was for me yesterday, being one of the 250 Camaro enthusiasts invited by GM to be at the unveiling.

I think we're about 90% there, but since I've just spent the last 2 days going into excruciating detail on likes/dislikes with many of those enthusiasts, regarding the Concept, I'll share what I've learned:

1) With all due respect to all those that worked on it, I have to say that the interior was overwhelmingly NOT well recieved. Far too retro, especially the IP and dash.

2) Rear fascia could lose some bulk, many would have preferred round tail lights.

3) Rear fender vents combined with door 'cove', almost give a Mustang look. Looks alittle busy as well.

Beyond that, I still have goosebumps. I loved how the Z/28's rich racing heritage was tied to the presentation. VERY nice touch.

Let me check. Yup, I still have goosebumps.

Charlie

The Camaro concept is great!!!! Fantastic job guys!! As one of Maine's older family owned Chevrolet dealerships, we'd love to see this affordable car in production. Keep up the good work!!!
Mike Murphy

GM has a agreement with the UAW that if they ever build a "Camaro" it must be built at the factory in Canada which was leveled,so that means that no Camaro till after the 2007 UAW agreement runs out. So i do not think you will see a Camaro till fall of 2007 which will be a 2008 model.

I think that this car needs a production version now i already know a few people that want this car and i know i know GM has people reading our msg boards if its not built just like the 2002 demise there will bne people swearing never to buy GM again and we dont want that

Bob, I forgot to mention one thing. I know concept car interiors are usually a bit extravagant compared to production, but myself and several others I talked to do NOT like the interior of the Camaro concept. A little retro is alright, but it is TOO retro.

Bob,
I take back all the horrible stuff I said about you. The new CAMARO is incredible. The Camaro, solstace and Z06 Corvette are the kinds of cars that built GM. Keep up the good work and GM will again be on top.

OK Bob,

I finally thought of something I do want changed when you do release the Camaro on us all. Make it E85 ready. There are few E85 station up here in Wisconsin, (about 20 to be exact,) and I am lucky enough to live close to such a station. I really like to be able to say for sure I buy the Camaro, I'm seriously worried about what happened last summer. I really could not afford to buy such a fun car, then have to garage it for 6 month each time a Hurricane hits the south coast.

Furthermore, I think a lot of other Americans feel the same way. They really want there big cars, big trucks, and big SUVs. And they don't mind the fact they don't get the best gas mileage when gas is cheap. But when gas ain't cheap, Well all we hear about is what a bunch of dumb idiots we are. I really don't feel like being called a idiot, and I don't feel like complain much about anything.

So how about you make someone drop the other shoe, and make all GM products E85 ready? It go a long way towards relieving fears caused by depending on foreign sources oil. It makes corn farming a honorable and patriotic source of income. And it may even give your whole automobile line a green seal of approval. (OK, I'm stretch on the green seal of approval,) but who here was not mad when gas jumped between 50 cents to a dollar a gallon?

And besides, think about what you gain just buy spending the couple of dollars more needed for stainless steel gas tank, Teflon lined fuel lines, and Dielectric sensor. You would be able to advertize not only you have the coolest products across the board, but ones that can get up to 5% better Horsepower just buying a product that costs a average of 25 cents cheaper then regular pumped gas. (After all, E85 does have a average 105 octane. Furthermore, you would be helping to reduced America's dependency on foreign sources of fuel and help the poor American farmer that can barely scrape out a living right now.

Come one Bob, what do you say? Lets buck that notion that the American automotive industry sleeps with the international petroleum industry with some style.

Izzy

When I saw the Camaro concept car my first couple of thoughts were AWESOME, MUSCLE, GOTTA HAVE PRODUCT, and WOW! GM should productionize this as soon as possible. There is a market out there for this type of vehicle and GM needs to tap into it.

Bob,
If you add a few more modern touches to that interior, switch that bowtie out for a regular Camaro shield on the front and make sure to include t-tops as an option, you will indeed have a stellar production vehicle.

The buzz in recent years over these retro or "throw-back" designs is a phase that GM is a little to late on. If there is all this concern over sales, sales, and sales, then why not turn there attention to the designs of the cars that are the backbone of sales! Yes, the new Camaro is neat, but in all reality, this car, along with the SSR and new Corvette are NOT contributing to the depth of automotive product ingenuity at GM. GM is getting killed, along with Ford, and Chrysler (to a certain extent) by the imports because of eyesore designs like the new Impala, Cobalt, Aveo, HSR (an obvious ploy towards the PT Cruiser), Trailblazer, not to mention the sicko designers at Buick. I mean come on people!, wake up a smell the coffee. The bureacratic filtering of design is so fricken stale its obvious why we look to Mazda, Toyota, Lexus, and Honda for cars that fricken work on all levels! Bring some spirit and ingenuity to the cars that make sales, not cars that simply are ripping off past "successes". I mean there was a reason why the Camaro was canned in the first place Gees!

Who exactly is this car intended to appeal to?

In the podcast you mention that by pricing the car in v6 trim in the low 20's and in high v8 trim in the low 30's you expect to sell volume similar to Ford's new Mustang. Simply matching price will not accomplish this.

The Mustang is a far more functional car that appeals to both male and female drivers. I don't feel that the Camaro has the same appeal.

Part of the reason for this is basic ergonomics. Women tend to be shorter then their male counterparts, because of this difference, features like a long hood, and exaggerated rear quarter panels negatively impact the cars practicality. Other issues like poor ingress and egress and reclined seating position have an impact on the cars use as practical transportation.

While many consumers are willing to make sacrifices for performance, often times their wives, daughters, and girlfriends may not be drinking from the horsepower well of intoxication and if you think that does not have in impact of potential buyers purchase decision you need to go and do some thinking.

I think that you guys were better off without a Camaro, especially on that attempts to be both a reasonably priced streetcar and a Corvette.

GM already builds a Corvette; you guys hardly need another one.

-Geoff Chandler
-www.hotrodhomepage.com

Bob,

What a fantastic car. The interior is a little over-the-top retro, but overall it is a GREAT looking car, and much better than the "SS" Concept a couple of years back. It looks masculine and ready to compete with the Ford and Dodge competition.

I'm hoping that it comes with an affordable 3900 engine trim option, but something has to be done to squeeze better fuel economy out of the 3900 than what it gets in other GM cars - shoot for 20/29 with a 6-speed automatic!

Good Job! I would love to see it go to production. I would buy one right away.

Bob Lutz:

Mr. Lutz, I am writing initially on behalf of the new Camaro concept car revealed at the 2006 NAIAS. I was ecstatic when I heard rumor of a first gen Camaro being designed into a modern concept car. Ford really had something with their Mustang, and we (GM) really dropped the ball with the GTO. I recall reading an automotive review article comparing the new Mustang to the GTO. Despite the fact that the GTO out performed, out handled, out accelerated, and just overall, hands down beat the tar out of the new Mustang from a performance standpoint. The editors still chose the Mustang because it looked cool, if there is one thing I have learned in this business, style sells, PERIOD (followed closely by quality, but that is another letter at a later date).

This brings me to my point, once again GM has dropped the ball. I can add the concept Camaro to my list of the ‘Generals’ disappointments, although it will be in good company. The GTO, the SSR, and lets not forget the new Impala SS and V-8 Monte Carlo. Just out of curiosity, how much did the municipality sales drop when you guys killed the rear drive platform? GM needs to add a facelift to its restructuring, and hire some new designers. I will admit the new Impala does have some nice lines; too bad it still sits atop a front drive platform. Despite the nice lines of the 06 Impala, I honestly cannot think of another “new” vehicle with good lines since the 2002 HD series pickup.

I suggest you take a good look at the new Camaro, and then stroll down to the Chrysler booth and have a look at what you should have done. Chrysler’s concept Challenger followed the style lines of the car from which it takes its heritage. Take 70’s Challenger and the new concept Challenger, place them side-by-side, and grab a non-automotive person at random. Guess what, they could tell you that the concept was based on that car next to it. I believe the same could be said for the Ford Mustang, but I think it would be a tough sell on your concept Camaro.

Personally I feel the car should be designed around the 68, but I realize the sales numbers for the 69 make it a better choice. Not to mention that it is considered one of the most popular, and sought after muscle cars of all time. Why is that do you suppose, I bet it has a lot to do with the style. The straight lines, the subtle ‘hockey’ strips across the wheel wells, cowl induction hood, square nose, short rear deck, and of course the ‘vents’ in the rear quarter. Your concept has the short deck, and sort of retains the quarter vent, that is about it. You softened or chiseled all the wrong lines, and eliminated the lines that define the original. And, where on earth do you get the style cue that the 69 Camaro had a beak for a nose????

From a performance standpoint I am quite sure the concept is dead on. I have no doubt this car can run with the best of them, be it straight, through curves, or stopping. Unfortunately it is my opinion that once again we have dropped the ball, and sales will reflect that of the GTO, nimble at best. Despite being the muscle of the 21st century, it just does not fit the dress code, just my two cents Mr. Lutz.

Jim DeMarco

If you build it, I will buy. Sign me up now!

This is an awesome car. You can't build it fast enough for me. I was devastated when i heard the Gen 4 was to the be the last. After that I had lost almost all faith in GM. But then you started making exciting cars. And this one takes the cake. Build it and we will come. If not to much to ask could you maybe give us a Firebird to for my sister.

I'm happy to see a modern car with retro cues as opposed to a retro car with modern cues. I would also like the car to stand apart and not get the "productionized" interior most cars get when they reach production. It's not impossible...
The pontiac GTO really stands apart from the rest of the cars GM sells in the US- the unique controls and interior features are something I hope to see in the Camaro and the upcoming GTO.

This car is EXACTLY the type of icon automobile that Chevrolet - and GM - need more of. Instead of the bland, cookie-cutter products that sit on the lots of GM dealers everywhere, this car is a well designed, attractive car that calls on the heritage of the Camaro without appearing too retro. A litle tinkering with the interior and we have a classic for a new generation. Bravo!

Unfortunately, the Camaro Concept is a mismash of lines and creases with none of the charisma of a 1969. It has none of the brawn of the Challenger Concept and none of the nostalgic pull of the Mustang. The pointed beak front end with the egg crate grill is seemingly grafted onto a rather non-descript design that is neither much Camaro nor much retro. For all intents and purposes this car could have been an AMC Javelin if we weren't told it was a new Camaro.

Bob,

I'd say were not there yet with the new camaro. I am a diehard GM fan, and I love my '01 Z28, but if i had to choose between the new Camaro and the Challenger concept i'd likely pick the latter. I think this car looks like a mix of a 1970 Firebird and the new corvette.

Among the changes i'd like to see include:

1. Smaller wheels say 16-17" with 50 profile tires.

2. Rear 1/4 panels need to be less corvette like and should be pushed in and be flush with doors.

3.That mustang like vent behind doors is awful.

4. The front roof line is too far forward giving less windshield.

5. The door line is too high giving less window- high door line resembles that ugly Chrysler 300 look.

6. Those ugly dials on the dash definity have to change and the dials in center console need to be up higher for the driver.

I like the back end and the fact and the decision to go with the LS2. Hope my input helps. I am glad that we are back to discussing a current/ future camaro.

Bob,

OK, the consensus is in. We love the outside, hate the inside. You over retro-ed the interior, there was no Camaro in the early fifties. But the GTO interior is perfect, so start borrowing off that. And ditch the little uni-brow on the hood.

And don't let Pontiac touch this car! We don't need any decals, plastic skirts, or flaming chickens on the hood. Those aren't the F-cars we want to copy!

Bob,

The Camaro concept is truly a car that evokes an emotional response when you see it. From the aggressive stance to the low, sleek cockpit the car demands a second look. The lines on it remain true to the original car while still giving it the ability to create its own unique personality. Fit and finish seem to be up to luxury car specs. I especially like the use of high quality materials such as soft leather and brushed aluminum in the interior. All this is followed up by a great powertrain offering and suspension system. The use of four wheel independent suspension gives it a distinct advantage over the competition.
The design is great and as a current Pontiac GTO owner the new Camaro would definitely keep me in the GM family when I buy my next vehicle. Let’s build it now!

What a great looking car! A modern design with retro cues, but not overdone.

Build it and I (like many, many others) will buy one!

I'll keep this brief.

BUILD IT! PLEASE! I've wanted a Camaro since I was five years old--that's 22 years--and I've never been able to have one because they've always been just barely out of my reach. I missed my last chance in 2002. Please let me have my dream!

Mr. Lutz,
Please put this car into production ASAP. As a owner of 2 previous camaros you could not get this car on to dealer lots soon enough. Don't lose sales to Ford(Mustang) by waiting. This should be one of GM's top priorties to get to market quickly. Please keep the price comparable with the Mustang and only the SS should be priced with the GTO. Make a version with powerful V8 and very few options for those of us that can do with out leather, power window and seats.
And above all thanks for finally giving us GM loyalists something to be excited about.

Mr. Lutz,

First let me say I'm the proud owner of an 05 GTO. That's not because I'm a 'buy GM' or 'buy american' fanatic but because I feel it's the best car out of those I was condidering (domestic & import).

Second, I hope when the GTO is paid off I'll have the option purchasing of a Camaro SS (convertible, Z06 motor & a 6-speed please) besides the Ford Shelby Mustang and Dodge Challenger SRT-8.

Thanks for your time and talent.

Mr. Lutz,
i like the new camaro. it could look a little better (although im sure pictures dont do it justice) but the interior is sweet. and i love the DOD and the 400hp.

what i love even more about it is that it shows that GM has still got some fight left in her and is willing to take some risks and make some sweet cars.

couple things i think the camaro needs:
1. make it lighter, the current GTO is powerful, but it is awfully heavy. my old f-body weighs a couple hundred lbs less than the gto and you can definately try when you drive it. not to mention it will be faster and better on gas.
2. Offer more options. perhaps the 6.0 could be a z28. a low cost (RS) version could have the 5.3 out of the tahoe. and perhaps an ss model with a detuned version of the ls7. it would also be nice to see packages like the 1le come back and actually make a difference.
3. finally, cost is key. they need to be cheaper than their ford/dodge/toyota/nissan counterparts and offer better or equal performance.

We absolutely love this concept Bob. As a proud former owner of a '68 Camaro RS, try as might, I could never buy a 4th generation Camaro because I wanted my son to be able to see out the side window in the rear seat as opposed to staring at a huge B pillar. It was really that simple. Now you've certainly got our attention, but I think the problem lies in the fact that this car is so far off from production. What ever happened to when new designs occurred nearly every year? Imagine capturing the enormous momentum in also being able to announce that the production version will begin to arrive in showrooms this summer! As demonstrated with Solstice, Lucerne and Yukon, we have faith in your work on future product without having to necessarily test the waters with concepts. Ed Welburn is also doing an excellent job IMO. GM needs to quickly close the time gap on when they announce a new product and when it ultimately arrives in showrooms.

Great Concept ...now build it !!! You have alot of loyal GM'er who are craving GM to get back in the game..I think you have awinner here

Two Words: BUILD IT!

i think it looks really good for the most part, the steering wheel is too small and too close to the dash (one bad point that sticks out). i think it needs to be more retro. gm definitely needs more RWD cars and i think bringing back the camaro is something that needs to happen

Styling: Exterior is just georgious, don't change too much. Interior is way too retro...being class leading modern, and ergonomic interior will work much better.
Powertrain shouldn't be a big problem since GM sports cars rarely have issues here. LS2 would be nice for the base V8 models, with a higher output engine available for SS models. Having a base V6 such as the 3900 HV, or even a HO 4200 I6 may work with the long hood. Being Chevrolet, Pushrod power is probably the best way to go though. Leave OHC for Buick, Cadillac, Saturn.
Pricing is critical here...LS2 V8 models should start at ~$25k, with SS ~$30. Base 6 cylinders ~$16-20k.
These things would have no problems selling with prices like these and plentiful amentities standard.

Bob,
1. Please do not make the interior too retro. Give it a Modern Chevy outlook.. AKA Tahoe with some retro touches. I did not like the one on there.
2. Bring it to the market soon. 2008 would be good.
3. Update Malibu’s Interior. You will make more money from Malibu if you can sell it for its full price.
4. Restyle the Cobalt soon
5. Do not drop the Trail Blazer. Just give it a Tahoe like upgrade. Drop the LWB version. Those that need It can buy the sububurn or Chevy’s enclave
6. Give Buick a RWD platform soon to complement the Enclave
7. Help Saab with a sports hatch, Enclave based SUV

Why do I include all these models in a Camaro thread? Because if you do not make money on your bread and butter products, Camaro is as good as dead

Build it, Please build it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If you build it, they will come! I have owned every generation and currently have a 69 ss with a 700hp 540ci in it. It is a street car not drag and was built with the motion performance vehicles in mind. I feel that chevrolet needs to put the heartbeat back in america sir. What better way than with a new retro camaro!

Please make some changes to the production model...

Flatten out the pointed nose;
Hood and rear deck should be in proportion;
Bulging fenders are silly - should be more sleek;
So many air vents are unnecessary, aren't they?
This interior is funky - should be totally modern;
Give it a flexible fuel engine please!
Don't forget a great stereo - 500w or better and no Bose;

Thanks.

Mr. Lutz,

I love it, and I am anything but a GM "fanboy". The last GM I owned was a 2003 Trailblazer LT; the quality was terrible, and I vowed at that time to never buy from the General again. This will change if you produce this Camaro; it's exactly the kind of design (and underlying hardware) that's needed to bring people like me back into the fold.

Mr. Lutz,
I would first like to thank you and all the people at GMs design studio for the great work you guys have put into making such great cars... (E.g. Solstice, GTO, Camaro)
I love the new Camaro, and I hope that it comes out to production sometime soon.
Then I would like to say that I am the owner of a 97 Camaro, an 81 Pontiac Trans Am, an 85 Fiero and a 71 Pontiac LeMans Sport 400. but my favorites have been the Camaro and the Firebird.
Where am I going with this is? It’s great that the Camaro is back, but I can't help but think of a classic F body without the Firebird in the picture. I am extremely glad the Camaro is back with us, as it should have been all this years it’s been missing, but I also think that the Firebird should be next on the list.
Thanks again
Xavier Menjivar
P.S. Great website by the way!!!!

Excellent job....GM is to be highly commended. Congrats...Only thing is 2008 or 2009 is too far off. Needs to be expedited and built way sooner. Come on GM...you can do it....

Kevin

Mr. Lutz,

You have a winner on your hands. I love the new Camaro. Build it and I will buy it! Excellent work by the whole team.

Build it! I want one.

That is one purty halo. Does it come in a four door so I can convince my wife we need it?

Simple put about the 2009 Chevy Camaro Concept...

Its Perfect, just two things:
1. Keep the price around where the Ford Mustang is now.

2. The camaro should be the next NASCAR Nextel Cup Series stock car in 2010 to compete with the Mustang and the Challenger, as the saying says: race on sunday, buy on monday.

Can't wait to see the new camaro in production soon.

Great concept, I would buy it in a heartbeat!!...Now Bob, let's right the wrong with the GTO. Let's see a GTO based upon this same chassis with a body style that hints of GTO past, much like the camaro concept.

Mr. Lutz:
Build this car and I will buy it. Build it with the LS2 V8 and I will pay 35k for it.

Though the concept Camaro is a start in the right direction, I would like to think that for once GM would just consider the reason why the sales for these cars declined. The "kids" can't afford them. Please GM, build something that the kids can afford with a V8 and rear wheel drive, and priced under 25,000 fully loaded. You won't be able to keep up with the demand.

It looks like crap not a 69 Camero.I want a new Camero that looks like a 69 Camero!!!Z/28!!!!!

The Camaro is one of the best looking cars I have seen in years. I remember my father having a very clean 1969 Camaro that I had dreamed of owning, sadly he sold it. To this day I have always wondered if Chevrolet was going to resurect the retired Camaro nameplate so that I could buy a new one when I graduated College. Hopefully this new concept camaro will be produced, I fell in love with the car the instant I saw the picture. The exterior of this car is by far the best looking car to come from any auto manufacturer in years. I would gladly take a black on black 2007 Camaro SS with a 6-spd manual transmission for the 40th anniversary of the Camaro name plate. Please produce this car!

Dear Mr. Lutz,

I'd be happy with an exact repro of a 1969
Z28 with cowl induction hood, but with
modern engines, trans, safety features and
interiors.

Still, not everyone wants that, and I think
the concept is close, but perhaps I could
ask that you not follow the Chrysler design
with the too high beltline and too low roofline.

Their cars look flattened and silly, not what we
expect from a Camaro.

PS - please release this car in LeMans Blue Poly
with white stripes, and drop the plastic
engine cover that the Vette carries. We want to
see some chrome valve covers, and other bits of
shiny goodness.

Thanks for reading this.

Short and to the point: build it and they will come.

Dear Mr.Lutz,

I really don't have much passion for the car as other do above, and I do not have any affiliation with GM or its products (besides having gone to the same engineering school as you). However, GM does need a cheaper halo car than the Corvette, and this concept may do.

However, I agree that the design needs to be touched here and there to distinguish it further from the Dodge concept. Most of all, this product needs to be put into the market ASAP if you want to grab the still-passionate souls.

Once competition catches on, this may die like so many other promising concepts due to late arrival. Time is of essence here, if you really want to sell it. If not, well, we have Dodge to play with.

OK, first of all, "retro" is just plain old silly, I mean most of the people who are into the cars of the 60s and 70s are their 50s and 60s... And with that said, and to somewhat contradict my first statement, I do have to admit that this Camaro looks very good - its not overly retro, actually I would say its sort of retro/modern. Its much better looking than the super-retro Mustang (yuck!!)... If the next Camaro is close to the concept, I would certainly trade in my 2001 Z28 to buy it...

One more thing - PLEASE dont let this car have an ugly retro interior, PLEASE!!!

Bob,
I think the new Camaro looks fantastic. The new models and "concepts" are worlds ahead of the products offered before. I really enjoy seeing GM's new products and I love being an intern there. I just wish that I could have the opportunity to meet you and some of the other important heads at GM before I make my career and grad school decisions. I have been a car enthusiast for more than half my life and aspire to follow in the footsteps of someone like you.

I love it! Put in an LS7 and I'll want one for sure!

As a 20 year old, I would just like to thank you for bring this car back. I have always been in love with small block power. And i really wanted a car from Chevy that i could afford with V-8 power(Corvettes are my favorite but i can't buy that out of college). The Camaro is just phenomenal. I just can't wait to see it in the Chevy dealer down the street from my house. Mr. Lutz, stick it to the money crunches and make me this car please! Make us GM loyalists proud to be GM loyalists and proud buyers of American Automobiles. PLEASE!

Mr. Lutz,

The new Camaro concept is HARD! (In other words, it's certainly one of the cleanest, bold, pronounced & absorbing vehicle designs to spring from GM in the recent years, alongside the Saturn Sky and the new Corvette/CZ06. I'd certainly pick up one of these when (not if) it hits the streets. Love the fact that in going retro, the best years of the lineage were chosen.. great design call! GM is certainly stepping up to the competition with a huge stick... so swing, batter, SWING!

Wish it were shorter,

Also concerned about the interior. The 350Z's interior makes the car feel cheap, yet they want nearly $30k. Don't cut too many corners here.

I NEED ONE NOW!!!

I have been a GM diehard from day one. I have not been without a Trans Am in 23 years, but have owned Camaro's too. This concept is the first thing I have seen out of GM in a long time that has any promise. I think it could use a little more design work on the front end, loose the C-5 rear. Overall the inside drawings also show promise. Would I buy the car? $28k and h**l yes. Given GM's track record, I don't have any hopes up. Keep it simple, leave off the safety crap, anti-locks, stability control blah blah ect. Just build a d**n good car at a fair price and get it out there soon.

Excellent! (in just about every way..) Exterior.... perfect. Someone noted about the tail lights, dont change them, we arent trying to copy the corvette! The lights are one of my favorite parts of the entire car. I also like everything on the interior except the dash - this is 2006 hopefully we can come up with a better design than this. By the way i bought a Solstice not too long ago, now that is a beautiful car - from head to toe, and everyone i drive next to agrees. Use this same type of thought when you put the finishing touches on the camaro and you got a winner! Also, if you are looking to sell 130k to 160k of these to make it worth it, then perhaps i dont want to see it built. Make this thing special! or at least make a SPECIFIC # (not a %, or by order, but exactly so many a year) of SS editions, otherwise the people will become bored of it after a few years & we can then count on a repeat of the past. If you can do this then ill be on your waiting list by 2008/2009.

maybe you could offer a 5 cylinder motor only that might help!!!!!!!!!

Mr. Lutz,

I have owned various sports cars and sports sedans. My favorites to date have been my 1996 Camaro Z28, 2000 Camaro SS and 2002 Corvette Z06. I'm sure I will enjoy my 2006 Corvette Z06 when I receive it.

So obviously I'm a big Camaro and Corvette fan and have been since I was a child.

I love the Camaro Concept presented at the Auto show. If you build it and provide a Z28 and SS versions with fitting powerplants, I will buy one.

Gairy G.

Mr Lutz,
I too would like to join the thousands of posters on this and other blog sites in proclaiming "BUILD THE CAMARO!!!". It is my firm belief that a single outstanding design can become the Catalyst to initiate a positive shift in an automaker's fortunes. I feel that this Camaro has that potential. As a muscle car lover born in the early 1980's, I never thought I would see a revival of the incredible horsepower and agressive style inherent to these cars. Now, with the Mustang and likely Challenger renewed to their glory days, it is time for Chevrolet to step up to the plate and capitalize on desires of these buyers. Discussion is circulating that the Camaro's revival is scheduled for 2009. Please say this isn't so! This car needs to be on the streets asap, while the segment is on the upswing and before the others are able to up the ante with greater horsepower numbers. The bowtie should LEAD, not follow!

Admittedly, I am a longtime Mustang fan, with very strong present aspirations of a black GT. However, were Chevrolet to build this car, as is with only minor stylistic tweaking, outpower and underprice the competition, Camaro would be impossible to resist.

Once again, I implore you... BUILD THE CAMARO!

P.S. when do we get to see the Firebird...?

I LOVE IT, I need one yesterday. Very beautiful car.

Absolutely LOVE this car and so does my wife. If GM builds this I WILL buy one. I have been waiting since 2002 to find the car that I wanted. I was ready to settle for a Corvette but now I KNOW what I want. I want that CAMARO.

Where can I send my deposit?

What a beautiful car...

Please make an RS version with hide away headlights and different rear tail lights.

First the TB-SS, now a new Camaro...my faith in Generous Motors is restored.

GM needs to stop following the others and become a leader in design. Market this but not using the Camaro name. Search for a late model Camaro and you will find mostly 4 and 6 cylinders which should be in other car models like the Vega.
The new mustang hit the mark for a retro car not that I would ever own another Ford that seems to fallen to the Fix Or Repair Daily cars of the past.
GM wake up it is a world market and you need to earn back your customers.

Being a 69 Camaro owner, I am really excited about the new Concept. Don't go too cheap on the plastics and give me a V8 (LS7 would be ideal, but I'll take an LS2) with a 6 speed. I have down payment money whenever you want it.

I'd buy it now, if it was available.

I'd really like a Firebird, but this is very good.

Now that is a refreshing thing to see as it is a much needed vehicle to keep this Company going. GM has enough in the parts bin to build a very well made vehicle here with the right effort and at a affordable price as well. The 3P's should stand out in everyone's mind when they see it. Powerful,Performance and Price are going to be the undoing of this vehicle or the great success that the Comapny needs. You have to realize that you can do the same again if you really wish to succeed with this car. The rear Wheel drive platform is very much needed and should have never been fully dropped in most of the models the Company produces. As a Retiree of GM I sincerely do want to see this car go forward and be a Very Large Success.

Fantastic. Build it, but don't wait until 2009.

Also, coming from an advertising background, it would be good to tout any Z06 technology carry over (if there are any).

Build it and we will come. I am a forty year old Canadian car nut and until recently a die hard Chevy fan. Other than a Corvette there has been no other car on the GM dealer's lot that I would be caught in. I had tears in my eyes when GM killed off the Camaro, lets bring it back. I love the concept car's exterior styling and would not change a thing. Build it now!

You came close, but missed the target, in my opinion. At this late stage in the "back to the ponies" game you should have realized that taking a design to a new level isn't what the public wants. They want to go back. Personally, I'd like to go back to my '69 Yenko, and you had the opportunity to do just that with the engine choices available to you. But the front and rear styling leaves me wanting. Take one more run at it (if the automotive world will allow you the time) and get it right this time.

Rick Yocum

Bob, I'm loving the direction this car is taking. However, I see it as big and bulky and hope you can smooth the lines out so that they blend in together a little bit more in rear, sides, top, and hood. The concept front fascia is pleasant, but is a little weak and needs some work.

Put some 1968 or 1969 Camaro face into it. Something along the lines of:

http://www.arkansascamaro.com/2007nextgencamaro.sized.jpg

and

http://www.arkansascamaro.com/2007camaroz28.sized.jpg

I like what I'm seeing Bob, but hope you don't end up making a car as angular as the cartoon Batmoble in the 90's Batman cartoon series. Or as angular as the concept car.

Many Americans have been waiting a long time for this day! Just build it.

WOW, some people just don't know a beautiful design when they see one! The Challenger does not even compare to the design of the Camaro. The Challenger is way to close to the original, I don't imagine it took much to come up with it's shape. The design is to simple, it was great 35 years ago, but not for a new car. BTW, who asked for the Super Sized order of Challenger? It looks like it's huge car.

The Mustang looks great from the front but that's about it. Unless you throw a Saleen body kit on it, the rest of the car is rather bland and unemotional.

This concept Camaro is full of personality and style. I love just about every part of it. From the mean looking front and rear, to the flared rear quarterpanel that give it such an awesome aggressive stance. The exterior of the Camaro is amazing and inspiring! I'd trade in my '01 Camaro SS right now if this concept was ready to buy.

I would only ask three things though:
1- Modernize the interior. It's a cool looking concept, but way to retro. Please don't make it like the Challenger either, it's dash looks like it was designed in a 2D program.

2-Where are the T-tops? It's one of my favorite things about my car. Maybe give it a Targa top, huge sunroof, something...?

3-Should be able to get a well equipped V8 Z28 for well under thirty thousand.

Oh yeah, don't forget the Camaro emblem on the front grill.You can't please everyone with a design, but I think most will love this car. Some people seem to be forgetting this is an American sports car, not a Toyota, we don't need a watered down, put you to sleep design.

Get this Camaro into production Bob, you'll be remembered for years to come! :)
Thx

I really like the Camaro concept. As a taller guy, I am a bit concerned about the low roofline, so please make sure it fits tall people!

I would also second the motion to make it as light as possible.

I agree with other posters on the interior and hope you avoid going to retro with it. Also, please avoid low quality plastic/rubber dash/interior pieces that are (sorry) too common on GM products.

Lastly, please make the car handle well. Any car can be made to go fast in a straight line, it takes real skill to make one that rides AND handles well.

Bob,

Your the car guy at GM, make the Camaro happen ASAP. Let go of some bean counters if that's what it takes to get it into production.
There are two main areas of concern with the concept. First is the front end and the styling of the grill. The Challenger and Mustang have the Camaro beat on the front end styling I'm sad to say. Get rid of the slit scoop and restyle the grill, the grill itself looks too fisher price, and overall the design needs to be tweaked a bit.
Other than that the other 7/8ths of the car's exterior looks great IMO.
Interior, retro is not good for guages! Please make the interior updated with modern gauges that look refined and are easy to read. The reason people want a modern day muscle car is A) for the looks, B) for the power and C) the reliablity of a new car. Pretty much they want the look and feel without all the hassles of an old car, and awkard retro gauges are not what people are looking for. We have figured out that gauge clusters can look nice and actually be ledgable, unlike the ones from the 60's.
Finally make the LS2 or upcoming 6.2L from the upscale trucks the "Z28" model's engine. 400hp should be very competative against the mustang and Challenger. Then leave a top level SS with another seperate engine option that has 450-500hp. The different engine in the upper model is key, it can't be a strips, ground effects, and cold air intake upgrade on the SS model. It needs something like a model specific engine to draw people in for the premium price.
As a current LS1 F-body owner I would love to see this car succeed and help GM in the process.

Bob, The only design change I would make is to increase the size of the greenhouse on the Camaro concept. It seems to be proportioned too small to be integrated with the rest of the car. It seems passengers will bump their heads on the ceiling they way it is designed now. My feeling is that the drivers head will barely be above the door sills. Some think the 300C has a low roof - well the Camaro concept has knocked off 4" or 5" off even that model. Otherwise a smashing design triumph!

As a 1st gen owner I am so happy to see the resurrected model. I agree with the others in terms of updating the interior a bit and putting the regular Camaro shield on the front - add a convertible option - wowie zowie! If you keep this semi-affordable too - you'll have them lined up to sign up!

what kind of blog is this if they comments of the bloggers are subject to approval?

keep living that lie that people actually buy a gm car because they want to and not because they cannot afford a german car.

when you drive a european car you will understand that beauty is only skin deep, the engine and interior actually does matter.

The new Camaro is absolutely stunning. It shows that GM is willing to make an affordable sports car with a legendary name that can compete with the Mustang again. Its beautiful, not too retro but retro enough. Now all you have to do is make the top model a Z28, like the Corvette has the Z06.
The "Z" name in any car makes you think of speed and styling.

the camaro concept is by far the best looking "retro" american muscle car design from the outside.

why go so retro on the interior? it should be about form following funtion. the inside looks like its as confortable as a medieval torture chamber.

we all know that its only competitor is the mustang. why stop there....why not make a great car and not limit yourself to the cheap production flaws that is your rival....up the craftmanship, innnovate, create a total original product.

every redneck in america will have a mustang, why not develop a great american sports car that can serious compete with anything any other manufactorer can throw at it.

compete with bmw, compete with audi, compete with honda....america is better than this

we went to the moon...why cant we build a car that doesnt rattle after every pothole!!!

why cant we build a car that is anyone in the world would be proud to drive.

get rid of that stupid vent buy the rear fenders...what does that do? does it cool the sheetmetal by the wheels?

its not a porsche...the engines not in the rear

CONTINUITY

Bob,

In a time when everyone wants you to do SHARP TURNS we have to remember slow and steady wins the race. Camry didn't get to be number #1 overnight but it got slight improvements over decades and stayed true to its audience.

GM took sharp turns in the 80's and it lost its continuity. Bringing back the Camaro is a big step to regaining a lost generation of young buyers and old faithful.

REMEMBER an object in motion stays in motion until another force...In other words if you find a good thing you stick with it. Understand, if I like a Camaro that is going to be the car I stick with forever unless of course you take a SHARP TURN and get rid of it or screw it up badly.

Remember each post probably represents ten's of thousands of people who hold the same senitiment. It is clear the Camaro and a Pontiac version need to come back.

In this time when everyone wants you to make sharp turns remember this...

LESS THINGS NEED TO BE CHANGED AT GM THAN YOU THINK,

A lot of things need to stay the same, and some things need to get back to the way they were a long time ago.

It's tough to be #1 but the #1 rule is,

Don't think or be like everyone else.

designed in america
built in china...

or

designe in japan
built in america

whats more american?

Mr Lutz, congrats on your introduction of the new Camaro concept. I look forward to watching this vehicle develop and grow from concept to reality hopefully over a short period. I'm excited to see what the final production version will look like.
I'm mostly looking forward to the real special editions, that if the car is approved, will most likely appear. There all all kinds of names that can be used but I'm sure you catch my drift. My mouth is watering and my savings account now has a purpose. I can't wait!!! Thanks!

Mr. Lutz,
If you are really serious about the possibility of building this, waiting until the 2009MY is going to deflate alot of the energy created NOW for the car. The competition is out there selling now, and we could almost buy from them now and have it paid off before the 1st Camaro hits the streets. I completely understand the production cycle, and that things don't happen overnight, but if GM really does listen to what everyone has been saying (online especially ), you should've already had an idea of the impact this car would make. Not to mention that now even Dodge will have something out by then if they have their way it seems. This has the potential to be HUGE for GM's ( moreso for Chevy )rep as creating exciting cars that just about anyone can buy. Why is the company willing to let the buzz die down for what is effectively at best 24 months before seeing one in the showroom.
Don't get me wrong, I'm still going to be there getting in line to order one, but not everyone is that patient.
Great job on the concept, and hope this isn't just a "design excercise" and it fades away. Thanks for listening.

I do think that the conept looks awesome. Better than the new Challenger and Mustang. If it is produced like the concept, then it will outsell and outperform all the others with that LS2 under the hood. The LS2 would be good for a Z28 model and put in a LS6 or LS7 for the SS model. And with a curb weight of about 3000 ilbs, it will fly from standstill to sixty in under 5 seconds. Maybe just as fast as the base Corvette. Then is would truly be a Chevrolet. And if the 2008 GTO is just as good as the Camaro, then it could save Pontiac and boost sales to get you guys back on your feet and on top.

I heard about your new vision for the Camaro from Daily Planet on Discovery Channel on TV. I have been waiting a long time for you to bring back a car that had some personality. WOW have you done it with the Camaro. I say sign me up for one. I think that you have captured the hearts of all muscle car enthusaists. Keep it up!

Dale
Oshawa ON, Canada

If you build it and have a v6 model under $18,000 USD and its MADE in the USA unlike the GTO Ill buy one. Looks very nice, please build it GM is the back bone of the USA, Right now Toyota is making us look bad. Get into the new motor sports SCCA, D1, etc. Get the marketing back into racing PLEASE!

Mr Lutz, Please build this Car! Just drop the bird beak grille and give it tailights reminescent of a 67-69 model. I am planning on buying a c-6 vette but I would rather have a cool camaro maybe both. Either way GM wins

Please round off some of those share lines....thin out the waistline a bit...and thin out the front a little.....I love Camaro

Mr. Lutz,

I'm glad GM is considering bringing back the Camaro. I know Pontiac is saying there will be no TransAm, but to not have one is a serious injustice. I've owned a '65 Malibu SS convertible, a '67 Malibu SS396, a '67 GTO (my favorite, I was hit by a drunk driver and the car was totaled), a '70 Stage I Buick GS, and still own an '86 Trans Am. I agree with nearly all the previous postings in comments about the styling, but will add one thing - it MUST be able to accommodate 4 people comfortably. Have you ever tried to squeeze into the back seat of a new GTO? PLEASE make it more commodious, and bring it back sooner than the 2009 model year. Thanks!

I love the exterior. The interior needs some help, it definetly needs to be brought up to modern day standards. The gauges by the shifter need to be moved somewhere else. The front grill should use the Camaro logo instead of the bowtie. Other than that, I'd say it's perfect, just get it into production as soon as you can! I currently own a 2000 Camaro SS convertible and a 2000 Trans Am WS-6 and would love to add this car to the family.

Hello Mr. Lutz.

As an owner of 5 F-bodies I feel I have the right to throw in my two cents.

This concept Camaro clearly ignores 32 years of Camaro Heritage. Going by this car, the Camaro was only built from 67-69. What happened to 1970-2002?

Going on styling alone, I am going to have to pass on this new Camaro.

I will stick to my Firebirds.

First I’d like to commend you on an excellent design. A modern muscle car interpretation is what was needed and you succeeded very well on that front. The best advice I could give to you is to look at what you want to produce in the next 2 years and see what could be bumped to bring this to market faster. At the latest I think you need to hit autumn of 2007 to coincide with the Dodge Challenge launch.

A few comments below on particulars of the design:

Exterior:
The front and sides look great the only possible change might be to integrate LED lighting for the headlamps or bring them forward just a bit. You may also need to open up the front fascia for better engine air flow. The small scoop should be made an inch or so larger in height. The back tail lights need some modification. Either full circles or go with a completely rectangular design. Lastly is increase the spoiler a bit but otherwise the exterior is perfect.

Interior:
The seats look great; I’d recommend a two-tone color option. The dash just doesn’t seem right to me. I think it will need to be toned down a bit. Take a look at the instrument cluster on the Challenger Concept for possible inspiration (I’m a web designer and designers always take inspiration from other good designs). The center console looks good. The four indicators while they look nice are best incorporated into the instrument cluster to utilize that space better for something else. I would also recommend a vehicle information (or navigation option) display above the radio or incorporated with the sound system area.

Again a thoroughly striking and beautiful concept, I hope you can make it to production with at least 85% of it intact. If you don’t make it by late 07 or early 08 I think it will severely hamper sales when you do bring it to market.

To everyone who worked to make this car a reality - Great Job! The car is absolutely awesome! Build it!

I've been a GM man my whole life. I own a 72 454 Vette conv as we speak. I've had 3 big block pace cars and a RS Z28. Would I buy the new Camaro as I now see it? Nope, but I'll sell the vette and grab that awesome powerful Challenger if it comes in a conv. Bad idea with the GTO, charger, and now another car that looks nothing like the one we miss. Wake up.

I like most of the car. The rear bumper(?) needs to be shortened (more of an angle upward from the back of the rear wheelwell to the back), the headlight/grill opening needs to be larger, and the tailights need to be a either round or square.

This car is right on point!

I have owner a 1997 Camaro Z28 Convertible and would still have it, if it werent for that DRUNK DRIVER!

I will own another Camaro - this Camaro.

Props to the GM/Chevy Team....

Please build this car

Nice car. im 31 years old, scca racer for almost ten years now, bmwcca member since i was sixteen. i currently own 5 cars. That being said, this car is boring. Its another live rear axle , heavy , overpriced , straight line pig. WHO CARES. The new challenger is no better. You need to let the mustang carry on the tradition of 40 year old technology. Once you have owned a rear drive , live axle , pushrod (pathetic) , american v8, you have owned them all. The only thing about a new car in the year 2007, that should be retro , is the sheet metal. gm sold this drive train in the 6o's. look forward for you future, gm has already done the past.

Mike Murphy wrote,
"we'd love to see this affordable car in production."
I agree. If the thing isn't affordable, you are headed down the same path of low sales numbers. Dealers should look at picking up older classics and doing dealer factory restorations.

Once again for GM, a good idea (even if it was copycatted), but disappointing exectution.

I personally like the retro interior that other have shown disdain for, but the front end is simply hideous.

I knew I'd seen it before, but it took me a while to remember where. Then it came to me. It's the last generation Monte Carlo SS front end with the grill section pushed back and round headlights squeezed into the reactangular openings.

That, coupled with the bump-outs above the wheel openings that have replaced the plastic moldings GM desighners were so fond of, make the concept fall short of what has the potential to be a very exciting product.

I think the concept is absolutely beautiful. The sooner it reaches production the better. I can guarantee to you that I will be putting my order in for one as soon as it’s available. Please keep up the good work and please don’t be afraid to drop the Z06 engine in this baby should the need arise ;)

PLEASE BUILD THIS CAR !!!!! PLEASE, PLEASE .... DON'T FORCE ME TO BUY A MUSTANG!!!

when can i place my factory order i want it in black with white racing stripes tan leather interior 6sp Z28 i have cash in hand NOW!!! Its time to go hunt mopars and ponies!!!

She is a stunning concept. The lines are absolutely gorgeous and the proportions look just right. I love the gills on the rear wheel well. I'd be so excited to see a Firebird version!!

As an owner of two Camaro's myself and my father was an owner of...16 of them. I must say that I am most definately a fan of the F-body.
With the GM release of the GTO, and the current 'spunk' of the newfound car lines like the Cobalt, Impala, and other GM sporty cars...I have high hopes for the new Camaro.
I must admit though, that the concept that was released seems way too much of a 'keep up with Mopar' in it's design. The retro interior is WAY overplayed...and the exterior does nothing to show off what GM has been working toward the last few years(and good work that was!).
I feel that if you stick with the strong ideals you came with in the GTO and other Chevrolet cars like the Impala and Cobalt...you will have yourself a stronger Camaro than what was designed.
All in all...the hype is in...you got your response that people WANT a Camaro. Now if you guys can put some strong time tweeking the design to be more something Camaro drivers want...which is power, handling and affordability(dejavu....1967)...you will NOT be disappointed with sales!

Mr. Lutz, etc,

The camaro?? Awesome!! Even if you need to price a Z-28 or SS version higher, somewhere in the 35k, dont skimp on a quality interior and luxury features like HIDs and navigation for those willing to pay. The looks?? You guys nailed it, THAT is a muscle car. If the quality is there and looks are unchanged by production, bye bye, 350Z, rx-8, mustang, and new Challenger.

Definitely invokes the retro feel. Only suggestion I have, Bob, is stick with small block V8's with fuel management. That would help keep production cost down and maintain the performance image so vital to this car's success.

I'm 16 and I love my 93 T/A. The new camaro looks like they took my car's nose and grafted a grill into it. Terrible Idea, doesnt work. Other than that I love the new Camaro concept and I think GM is going in the right direction finally. With that issue resolved and maybe some bright red paint and white hockey stick stripes, this car would be a sure winner in anyones book.

Mr. Lutz:

I was there in Detroit with the Camaro faithful when you brought her out onto the stage. I will order two right now - three if my wife has her way with a convertible! The exterior of the car is perfect - federalize it and get it built. The interior is great, but am willing to make it more buildable by using the new and current center stack HVAC and radio architecture to get it done.

To those who say that the car does not look enough like a '69 Camaro - like the Dodge and Ford cars do, please ignore them. They are wrong! The car I saw was a fresh interpretation of what the Camaro should be - not a Xerox of an original. GM built a '69 Camaro already - in 1969. There are thousands of them out there. The new car is fresh, exciting, and has the ability to move forward in five or six years with a change in design. Where will the '05 Mustang go when it is time to redesign it? Towards the Mustang II perhaps? Ford and Chrysler have painted themselves into a corner with their designs and concepts. They are not fresh or new - merely copies of originals with a tweak here and there. The Camaro is bold, fresh and new, with enough hints to harken back to a great car in GM's history. They will not be confused with their counterparts at the drive-ins.

I also wanted to thank you and your people for the great time you showed us in Detroit, from the Heritage Center to COBO - your people are professional car nuts through and through. Top notch!

The Camaro concept looks like a winner, assuming it makes it to production in similar form. I know we're all getting bombarded with "retro" auto styles, but I think there is an opportunity for GM to realize a lot of profit by capitalizing on some of the more popular GM models (Camaro and others, how about a decent El Camino)that have been produced in the past. Of course, the products need to be produced in a low volume, cost effective manner, but that seems to be possible nowadays. Call them niche models if you like, but GM has a lot of history to capitalize on, at least until the 'retro' trend wears out.

Perhaps after the retro trend wears out, GM can give us some of that modern (even futuristic) styling that they promised back in the 60's.

By the way, we purchased an '05 Mustang GT and while the car is very affordable, it doesn't come with a lot of amenities. And you know what? That doesn't matter a bit when you're hitting the top of second gear and the car is hauling a** and your grin is from ear to ear. The Camaro concept should be profitable if they can retail it around the price of a Mustang GT. Don't add a bunch of crap and bloat it into the next price range.

All I know is Chevy. I own a '68 Camaro, a '92 Astro, and a '01 SS Camaro. And I'm not including my parents vehicles. Last month on the Car and Driver web site I saw a spy shot of the new Challenger and thought to myself, I can't afford a Vette, I'll never drive a Ford, but am I willing to switch camps after all these years to be a Mopar guy?Don't play with my emotions, by showing me a killer concept and not making it. Honestly, as long as it has a V8, is reardriven, and has a Bowtie strapped on it I will definitely buy it. And only then will I ever forgive
the General for making me think about leaving all that I know for a poorman's Mercedes.

Bob,

Your going to need production of this car sooner. Dodge and ford have cought you guys with your pants down in this market! The GTO is an awesome car, but it just didnt sell, $35+ is too much! And while it does come nicely equipped, where are the other options, T-Tops? Sunroof? XM? Bigger/Smaller Engine? Upgraded Soundsystem? GPS/DVD? GPS/DVD might be outta place in that car, but it is a selling point. My dad is looking at getting a Impala SS soon. the Active Fuel Management was probably the biggest selling point I could convince him of. Good move on the LSX engines. But again, where is the GPS in this car!?
Now the Camero Concept is great and I hope to see it in person this weekend. But 2 things strike me as visually unpleasent. 1. The grill.. the cross is way to big on that, make it much smaller, like 1 inch grid. make it more sqaure and less angular as well. Number 2, those guages... look like they would make me go blind, i hope they are "show".
Shoot for $26K for the v8, $30K is too much. I would think you would actaully go with wheels that large.
One other thing, I heard Jarome York suggested selling Hummer... I hope that was a joke. I think Hummer serves a purpose, if for image only, Saturn is a waste.

This car should go into production as soon as possible. it will blow the doors off the ford and the GTO!!

I can't tell you how excited I was to hear that GM has created a concept car that lays the groundwork towards an eventual re-introduction of the Camaro. I've always loved the first generation F-bodies, but I guess I am in the minority of enthusiasts that prefer the styling of the Firebird over the Camaro. I hope that we'll see an unveiling of the Firebird next year or sooner!! I would love to see the car(s) go into production as long as the final product retains some of the design facets of the first generation cars, and is price competitive with the Mustang.

Your Camaro heart and soul is a man by the name of Scott Settlemire.

He took the barbs when Camaro died and no one else from GM was around to listen to the complaints.

He held the precious resource known as "The Camaro Community" together.

He took his personal time, even when you had no car to sell, to keep the name on the lips of enthusiasts everywhere.

He was the spirit that those of us in the Camaro world could cling to when the future looked so bleak.

He took the jabs when your "30 year nap" comment hit the presses.

He is the one that rounded up 250 enthusiasts for your unveiling.

He kept the faith.

That's passion. That's a car guy. That's who General Motors needs intimately involved in the new Camaro.

Bob,
Just build the car.

The decision should be an emotional one and not one that is executed by accountants.

Having owned a 1969 Camaro SS 350 it brings back memories of the best time in my life.

I will buy one.

Bob,
With these cool cars GM is merely rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. These lures will bring traffic into your showrooms to introduce buyers to another slew of mediocre products with sloppy quality. The Detroit culture simply can't match the Japanese in manufacturing. They can't even copy them.

It's not an impossible fix, but making over GM. requires an outsider to do the job. I'm available.

Best of luck.
James

Wow. Talk about Coyote ugly! After the new Ford Mustang and the proposed Dodge Challenger I could hardly wait for GM to reinvent their roots with Camaro. What a dissappointment. It looks like a fat Cadillac sedan. Fat, not PHAT. Strike three GM.

BRAVO!! On balance, I really like the design. However, as an old guy who was swept up with SS396 Chevelles during the 60s, I have the following comments: Please change the proportions for a taller roof. I think that Chrysler has really overworked the chopped top/lead slead theme way too heavy. I truly appreciate the hommage shown to the 69 with the console gages, but that is an impractical/dangerous concept. You look down to check oil pressure and you're in the next lane! Borrow the gage layout from the Silverado or the 70-72 SS Chevelle ( my all time favorite design - bar none). Please drop the big wheels, 18" is plenty big - girth beats heighth any day. The engine is way overpowered for the average driver ( I truly don't think you want to compete with the Corvette in the power to weight ratio). An all Al 4.8L with around 300hp might be a nice sweet spot and it would show Dearborn that you don't need OHC and 24 valves ( by the way, the 4.6L Northstar in my GXP is really lazy down low where I drive 99% of the time - not enough port velocity to keep things moving). While the IRS is a really nice touch and obviously a far superior suspension, it's not necessary if you can't price the car at or below the Mustang. Ford dealers have made a lot of enemys with their capitilization on Mustang demand by charging at or over sticker - much the same that Chevy dealers did with the last Camaro ( this is the very reason I refused to buy one) along with GM overpricing the vehicle in the first place. If you hit the pricing sweet spot, you could really gain back market share. Please don't repeat the GTO mistake - overpriced, overpowered(for the market) and overugly. Remember, not everybody could afford or knew how to drive a 375 horse 396- God what an experience!

This concept hurts my feelings and opinions of GM. I have been Camaro AND GM faithful ever since 1995, and this concept looks nothing like the beautiful 3rd and 4th gens. It doesn't look like a sports car like the 3rds and 4ths did; it looks more like a 300C or Charger.

What about those of us who still love GM,want something that looks similarly sporty as the Corvette, and want 4 seats? Must we save up our money to buy the newest iteration of the Jaguar XK to fill our design tastes?

I was really hoping for another sports car like the 4th gen, but this think is pure muscle car, there is no doubt about it.

Any chance there will be an extended Saturn Sky with 4 seats? I could probably live with that so long as I could get a V8 stuffed in it.

Mr. Lutz: The Camaro concept looks fantastic and if this Camaro is as easy as the Mustang to get in and out of, with better rear seat room and a usable trunk I will be a buyer. I am not expecting family car room, just enough for 4 adults to take a short trip to the golf course with their bags.

Just as the Solstice and HHR have been first year sell-outs, the new Camaro will be no different. And as the Solstice needs derivative model to obtain maximum return on investment, the Camaro platform can be the basis for a full line of products.

A minimum base engine of the 3.5L would provide excellent (20/32 MPG) with a 6-speed manual or automatic and enough power for customers who love the styling. Of course the 3.6L or 3.9L would be obvious choices for the RS version with the 4.8 V-8 as an option. The Z-28 would have the 5.3L (327) or 6.0L and the SS a 6.5L 396 (4.03 stroke x 3.88 stroke) or 6.7L 409 (4.04 x 4.0) and for a very limited run ZL1 the 7.0L (427).

Convertible base and Z/28 with the more aggressive black grille and more central mounted fog lights would be logical follow-up models as would the often rumored never made sport wagon with longer wheelbase and concept front end or 54 Corvette style.

A 69 Trans Am styled Firebird Formula and 70-72 Trans Am for the new Trans Am with the 3.6L base, 4.6 Northstar for the Formula. The Trans Am would have the 6.0 or 6.5L and a limited edition Super Duty with the 6.7L.

The next GTO (68-69), Monte Carlo (70-72) and Grand Prix (69-70) SJ model could be based on this architecture. On a limited basis the Buick GSX (70) and Chevelle (69) or (70) models would be offered on pre-announced limited runs.

For the mass market a 55-57 Bel Air styled 2 Door Hardtop, 4 door sedan, Convertible with retractable hardtop and Nomad wagon with “Quad Coupe” style rear doors all with optional AWD.

For the truck market; El Camino models in both 2 and 4 door versions with optional AWD.

A panel truck and sedan delivery styled like the (55-57) truck; a more aggressive look than the SSR – with extended cab style rear doors that open 180 degrees with 5 to 7 passengers and optional AWD.

The Camaro architecture could be used for modern versions of the Caprice, Bonneville (G8) and Park Avenue. The G8 would be in the mold of the BMW 5-series with 4.2L I-6 for a base with 5.3L V8 and 6.5L (M5) versions. The Caprice could be similar to the Holden Caprice and the Park Avenue would be a stretched wheelbase luxury model. Wagon/Estate versions may also be offered. A Buick Velite 5-passenger retractable hardtop convertible is another possibility.

This broad range of models could start appearing in 18 months if the Solstice program in any indicator and would easily have an assembly plant running at 100% capacity, maybe two plants.

While most of these models will never be made, at least make some of these while the Camaro is being finalized (or plant agreement hang-ups are smoothed over). Thanks for your time and keep going in direction you have shown with the latest concepts.

Awesome pretty much sums it up. I'll take mine in Hugger Orange to match my 69 Z/28. This is the best styling on a GM car in years. Build it soon and you start to regain the Generals proud heritage.

I've owned an 85 Z-28, and a 92 RS, but I've always wanted a 69 Z. Now I have a chance of owning a "modern 69 Z" with tremendous performance. Bulid this car, and make me want to have a GM product again! This is what the "buying public" has been looking for.

Great looking car but do not call it a Camaro,it does'nt look like one,to big to wide .Ford did not make an error by going retro.Chrysler understand it with the challenger.Gm would be making a mistake building this car and naming it a Camaro.

WOW! I love it. I even went to my class late to see it unveiled live. PLEASE BILD IT!

GM should do a deal with Zippo and design some Camaro lighters. Keep the Camaro flame alive.
http://www.zippogallery.com/Automobile.htm
http://www.zippogallery.com/images/ChevroletClark1946-49.jpg
That was good marketing.

This 1953 General Motors Zippo has been engraved with the date July 7, 1953. This is the date that the very first Corvette was produced. The Corvette went on to become an American classic.
http://www.zippogallery.com/images/GMJuly71953.jpg
Just a suggestion.
http://www.zippogallery.com/images/ChevroletSuggestion1966.jpg

Bob Lutz,

--TERRIBLE INTERIOR—

Problems and Solutions:

The success or failure of the Chevy Camaro has more to do with the interior design and perceived quality then most auto executive might imagine.

The Camaro concept car has received an overwhelming positive response from the press and the general public, however, I believe it has to do with the impressively sculpted exterior and nothing to do with the nauseating interior.

The area that the Camaro completely fails is it grotesque retro inspired interior. Consumers are looking for an automobile that has personality on the outside, usually described with retro interpretation, yet conversely requiring and a thoroughly modern and functional interior.

Retro design in general is extremely difficult to get ‘just right’, especially on the interior. The Camaro concept’s weak point, like so many retro designs before, is it’s repugnant interior. A clean modern and functional design plagiarized from the well thought-out Pontiac Solstice, Pontiac GTO and Corvette would be an inexpensive and simple solution. The best part is it will be an easy sell to CEO Rick Wagoner.

PROBLEM AREAS:
1. Bizarre looking ‘retro’ dashboard.
2. Malformed speedometer and tachometer.
3. Ghastly retro steering wheel. {Use the Z06’s wheel}
4. Fake chrome and brushed aluminum looks terrible and out of place.
5. Seats appear cheap and uncomfortable. {Use the Pontiac GTO’s seat!}
6. Metallic gold trims on the doors and dashboard give it a trailer park ambience. {Hire car designers and NOT Californian interior decorators!}
7. Eliminate the four tacky looking and improperly located instruments in front of the gear-shifter. {Worst idea yet!}
8. Tactless chrome shifter (Use the shifter from the Solstice)
9. Awkward and ugly air-conditioning controls (See the Solstice…again)
10. Missing a NAV computer screen (It’s 2006 not 1966)
11. Missing a radio

Sincerely, Marc
Connecticut

It would be really helpful to understand the process of concept to production - why will it take so long? Will GM develop an entirely new architecture or tweak existing? Theta seems to be on again, off-again. Why not utilize what's already available with Monaro/GTO or CTS platform?

i wanted to see the NEXT GEN, i already have a 1st gen. and you can buy a new 69 in a crate now......why would ya buy this?

if you look at the camaros through the generations you can see the family linage and evolution to the current fourth gen. even the "catfish" grill in the 4th gen harkens back to the 70-73 second gens. the shape of the b-pilliar goes back to the second gens also. however the design was not retro, but a progression. this design is soley a retro design. as if you took a 69 and updated it for 2009. one of the most endering factors to the GM and even more the Chevrolet product lines is that in just about every model you can see the family linage and progression through evolution through the years. if you stacked every chevy truck year for year next to eachother you can follow it, same with the vette. even though the C6 uses some cues from earlier generation vettes, it also encompasses a further development of the C5 it replaced. this car does none of that for the Camaro. in a period where ford and dodge are using their past glory to trump sales (with the exception of the charger, cuz they are just using the name and trying like h**l to make it cool) you would think GM would look forward and step away from the pack. the rendering that is posted earlier in this thread, altho not completly correct, is the direction i think that the boys at the bowtie works would and should go.

yes i am happy that they are talking big V-8 and rear wheel drive, that tickles me no end. however, if you are going to call it a name that has as much history as this one does then the shape and feel of the car should reflect that. and as pointed out earlier in this thread, by the time this hits production peole will have tired of the whole retro thing.
we should learn from history, not repeat it

after looking at this car for a few days and reading feedback from a number of sites i feel i must qualify my remarks about this concept car. i like the design, it is very clean and muscular as a car of this type should be. it is a bit over the top as a concept car should be. i guess it is more that i am dissapointed, because i expected something else. i expected a continuation of the line that we have been seeing over the last 35 years.

i own three of the for current generations, a 1st, 3rd, and 4th, we are looking for a 2nd gen and we may buy the 5th should it hit production, so we have a full set. and this may be where my predication to a further evolved 5th gen comes from. if you cannot see the design trends that carry from one generation to the next and evolve in the existing 4 generations, then maybe you havent looked hard enough. the short deck long hood is prevealnt for all generations, the grill and headlight placement of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th gen shadow eachother. the 2nd gen went from the small rear windo to the wrap around rear window that caused a distinct b-pillar shape, and is further drawn out in the 3rd gen with the b-pillar leaning forward, and then nicely rounded in the 4th gen. being a design professional i noticed these little details.

yes it has been the record as of the last few years that concept cars are closer to their production cousins, but this is not the traditional way that automakers have preformed in the past. i imagine the resonse from the media and the surveys that GM is taking about this car is very overwhelming, and very positive. but as FbodFather said there will be alot of the fbody faithful that will be dissapointed. some see the "retro" and "heritage" styling as the same thing, a lack of fresh idea and inspriation.

to that end, i applaud GM for seeing that they need to be in the 2-door rear drive v-8 market, as they do make the best v-8 ever designed. as the chevrolet division again out sold the whole ford company, yes the first time in 19 years, but before that it was something like 25years running, the competion seems not to be the great factor it may have been in the past.

i predict that the bowtie boys will sell this thing like it was going outta style, particulary if they do some of the wild off center stuff that chevrolet is famous for. like offerin limited editions that have WAY too much power etc. as evident by the introduction of the C-6 and the C-6 Z06, chevrolet has been known to deliver the most "bang for the buck" and i imagine that they will continue to deliver.

To GM; Excellent job on the Camaro Concept. It combines retro and modern. I own a 94 Camaro with 280,000 miles on it and still love the car. I would definitely purchase a new generation Camaro if you build it for the legions of Camaro fans.

Don Donovan

It is with my deepest thanks to the design team I want to congradulate GM for it's pick of the Folks whoseem to reach inside of the hearts of sport coupe enthuiast.The camaro just took the breath out of me THANX SO MUCH I AM BOW TIE PROUD.

NICK AUSTIN TX.

That new Camaro style is HORRIBLE!! I can't believe Chevy has gone and messed up the best car every made. They have sold out to all the other "future" style cars, they think everybody wants to drive. I have owned 5 Camaros since 1994, 1 of which I have turned into a Super Gas Race car. I love the style of the 98 Camaros. This new thing they have created is something I would never ever, ever buy. It does not even look like a Camaro. I looks like the new Charger not the sleek, fast LS1 we all know and love. The design needs to look like a Camaro not a piece of junk that all the other car makers are slapping together and tricking the public into buying!! I am a Camaro lover. That car has made my life what it is today, without it I would not be the success that I am today. The LS1 engine can be pushed to run as fast as you can make it and will just keep taking the abuse. I love my Camaros and I will not give them up to buy this new ugly piece of technology Chevy is dishing out. I will start racing a Mustang before I ever move to this new body style. Sorry, but you have make a big mistake. Keep the Camaro's style the same as it has been since 1998. Don't give into trying to make a great car into the boring cars all the other companies are making! Also, Camaros have been the "affordable" Corvette, judging by this car it will be way too expensive. Dont' change the Camaro. We love it the way it is!

Bob,
Overall, the car is outstanding. My family has a collection of these muscle cars; we purchase not only for the appeal, but for the simple fuctionalty of the car and the affordablity. The concept is fantastic, and if you build it, consider these points:

1) This car needs either t-tops or a sunroof. You need this on the GTO as well. With all that power, seeing the sun as you float down the road is an overall good feeling.

2) I concur with the others- the interior must be more modern. As for the exterior- bravo!

3)Affordablity- I concur with willie and james ramey that there should be an affordable V6 (3900 or 4200)an RS with the 5.3 liter v8, and the Z28/SS with your biggest V8.

Bob,I feel your design team fused the past and the future excellently, and with these suggestions I and others have provided, this car will be a titan in its class.

Please... I beg you GM, make this car into full scale production, let me tell my children of "dad's car", one that I would be proud to hand down to them.

Mr Lutz,You build that Camaro and make it look close to the concept and I will order one.The new Mustang is right on the money,but I am a GM guy.

I've been saying it since the last Camaro was discontinued, bring back the retro Camaro. The concept is a great start, got "it" mostly right. Needs Z28 badging(notice Chryslers Challenger had the RT badging) The grill needs to be more retro, maybe even the d**ned hide-away headlights that forever broke. And of course you've got to put on the stripes. I was thinking about a Mustand this summer, I may just wait and see when and how long its going to take for this to make it into the market.

KEEP THE BEANCOUNTERS AWAY AND JUST BUILD IT !

The concept that gm has produced could be a bat mobile if it were black. The concept that was drawn up by a student a few years back is much truer to camaro heritage. GM needs to get serious. Ford has come out with the mustang and dodge unveiled the challenger, GM is getting left behind. When dodge was designing the challenger they brought in an actual challenger, what was chevy looking at an audi/toaster?

Did you all take a 05 Mustang and graft a front end on it to make it look like what you think a Camaro looks like?

If you squint, the 05 Mustang looks exactly like a classic Mustang, and you don't even have to squint for the Challanger to look exactly like a classic Challanger, but I would have to close my eyes to ever believe that this concept should be called a Camaro. I still have a 91 convertable, and it is much more of a classic Camaro than this concept ever will be. Actually you should sell your Camaro concept to Dalimer Chrysler as a 74 AMX. It is perfect for that.

I love the rear view of this car. Something the Mustangs and Challengers will see a lot of. I like the shape of the tail lights, very unique. Please don't mess them up when you add backup lights. Perhaps back up lights flanking the license plate or paced lower in the rear bumper.

And PLEASE build this ASAP!

WOW! The Camaro concept is totally awesome!! It's tough and mean looking. I really like it. The rear end is nicely done with the two exhaust pipes and the rear brake lights.

If it came with the LS2, 6 speed manual trans, 18-20" wheels, and no gas guzzler tax - I would purchase one as soon as they come out.

My experience with GM has been a great one. I had a 2002 ZO6 Corvette that had very little trouble through it's 16k miles I put on it.

I will buy it, Mr. Lutz. I'm positive others will too. My wife loved it too! I hope to get one soon.

Thanks for a great looking car!

This Camero is the best yet. You will surley sell millions. Make sure you equip this one with every imaginable toy... rear camera, sensors, keyless entry and ignition.... I will buy one for sure.

Please, please please build this car. I have missed the Camaro since it went out of production, and bringing it back like this would make me and many others buy American muscle again. Camaro has alwasy been cooler the Muss-tang, and it would be once again!

So why couldn't you have put that same effort into the GTO? Maybe GM did learn something from that Australian bred turkey.

beautiful...i have a 1969 cortez silver x55D80...when this one is built...i'm buying...cortez silver of course...i only hope it it looks like this concept....awesome

Excellent design. I agree with those who have posted that it is modern with retro cues. Unlike the Mustang and Challenger that are FAR too retro in appearance. This is 2006, not 1969, and I don't want to see an 'updated' 1969 Camaro. I want a Modern Camaro with hints of the past. The exterior of this new Camaro is perfect in every way. The 'beak nose' as someone else put it, is what gives it an agressive appearance. The squared off Mustang is just so bland. Not to mention the Mustang's 'frown face' front end. I would like to see a slightly more modern interior, but that is secondary to the absolutely FANTASTIC exterior.

I've owned 3 Camaro's (1982 Berlinetta, 1991 RS and 2002 Coupe) and I'd very much like to finally add a Z28 to that list.

Just keep the price competitive with the Mustang. The Mustang sells due to it's low price point. When I purchased my V6 2002 Camaro, I could have gotten a V8 Mustang for virtually the same price. But I was willing to pay because the Camaro was so much better looking. But not everyone can afford to (or is willing to) do that.

Bring this Camaro (with NO exterior changes except the obvious change of smaller wheels) out in a couple years and I will be in line to purchase a Z28 in Silver.

An addendum to my previous post. This Camaro NEEDS T-Tops. It's not a Camaro without a T-Top option.

Just got back from the L.A. show Had my mind made to buy a new Mustang but after seeing the camaro what was I thinking WoW so build it people will come. Converted ;

Just saw the Camaro concept at the L.A. autoshow today, and I was more than pleased with what I saw in the flesh. That is having been over joyed from simply looking at press pics beforehand online. BUILD IT!!!! GM cannot loose with this one.

Can not tell you how much I love the new concept Camaro. I am into the nostalgia cars. I own the HHR and love it. The Camaro is my next car, so please hurry and build it.

Cal I please have the concept Camaro RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!! Absolutely breathtaking, I would buy one for myself and the wife!!!

Hello GM,
I just attended the NAIAS,and I couldn't get to the Camaro display fast enough.My friend(Ernie)and I took a front row look and WOW!!!It was a great looking automobile to say the least!
Speaking for ourselves,WE WANT ONE ASAP!Please,Please,Please bring it back.
WE LOVE IT!!!!!

I have bought GM cars all my life, and have loved 60s and 70s muscle cars since high school. This car doesn't evoke the emotion that the new generation Mustang still has for me, though I love the 69 Camaro. The tail lights are all wrong and the front header panel has to go.

I went last night to the LA auto show, down-hearted knowing the new Camaro concept was in Detriot. To my astonishment and surprise there was a red Camaro Concept staring me in the face. My jaw dropped, I was stunned, I couldn't move, and I was still 50 feet away. I went up to it and couldn't move for 3 hours.
I am a proud owner of a 69 RS/SS with a 502 and an M22 rockcrusher and I would kill to place this right next to it.
At first glance at the photos from detriot I also felt the front end was lacking. All I can say is go see the car in person, its beautiful. The exterior is perfect. Don't change a thing. Please add a hideaway headlight system of the RS, preferably without the vacuum leaks. Leave the LS2 for the SS, keep it around 30k.
Place some photos of the car in red, the silver fails to create the muscle car image.
2009 sounds fine, I graduate from law school in 08', I will wait for the 40 year gap to place this one right next to it.
For those who feel the concept lacks the retro styling, they have never had the priveledge of owning a 69. Its dead on. The front end, the pointed nose, the smooth curve of the rear 1/4, the cowl hood, the vents (now functional for the brakes), the side marker lamps, the cockpit (just loose the orange trim), all just beautiful.
Just keep the cost down, your market, young twenty somethings need it to be affordable, and tell me when I can place my deposit down.

Thank you, this car was a dream come true!

I saw the new Camaro concept car at the L.A. auto show , WOW !! .......BRAVO !!. Now all you have to do is make it. I want one . I have an SSR already and need this Camaro to make my life complete. Please produce this car "soon" , This will finally put the Mustang to rest !.................. Hoo-ray for the Chevy Revolution.

I would like to see this new concept Camaro out on the road ASAP , it's hot and sexy looking . Girls like to see beauty in a car too ! I would seriously consider buying one. I was going to buy a Mustang this year but I'll wait if your g