As the Chicago Auto Show unfolds, Dodge and Chevrolet unveiled two new performance models: The return of the Charger SRT8 and Camaro ZL1. We welcome these additions to the Dodge and Chevy fold and think they will inject some much-needed excitement into each brand's respective portfolio. First off, here is the new Dodge:
2012 Dodge Charger SRT8
The hiatus is over! Detroit Iron is born again! The '12 Charger SRT8 is back and better than ever!
Building on the updated '11 Charger, the SRT8 adds Dodge's new 6.4 liter Hemi V-8 engine. The Street and Racing Technology team has tuned this baby for 465 hp and lb-ft of torque--up from the '10 model's 425/420. Unfortunately, the same 5-speed automatic transmission returns, however it at least is updated to include paddle shifters. We certainly will be looking out for that rumored 8-speed ZF tranny! Don't let that get you down because the new SRT8 will still be pretty bad ass.
Dodge estimates the SRT8 will run from 0-60 mph in the "high four-second range," do a quarter mile in the high 12 seconds, and top out around 175 mph. It also will get better fuel-economy too, which isn't much of a feat since the '10 model achieved a shameless 13/19 mpg city/highway. Also included is improved brakes and suspension. Making its debut is Chrysler's new active damping suspension which automatically stiffens the suspension for road conditions as well as whichever mode the driver chooses (Sport mode for us). A larger, blacked out cross grill is exclusive for the SRT8 model as well as its rear and front fascias. The interior is also spruced up. We aren't loving the mammoth grill, but we think the new Hemi sounds pretty swell. Details on price are still mum but expect to hear more in the next few weeks. Expect to pick one up at dealers this fall
2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:
Chevy finally unveiled its worst kept secret since forever ago. The 2012 Camaro ZL1 will be the ultimate performance topping Camaro. In case you've forgotten, the ZL1 moniker was a limited-production high performance Camaro from '69 back in its heyday. While most people expected the Z28 badge to return, Chevy is coy hinting there may still be room for a Z28. We honestly don't care what they call this as long as we get one ASAP!
The ZL1's sights are clearly set on the Ford Shelby GT500. Packed under the Camaro's hood is the familiar 6.2 LSA supercharged V-8. Details are scarce, but Chevy did tell us that the engine will be good for at least 550 hp and lb-ft torque, about matching the Ford. The Camaro team raided the GM parts bin for all the performance goodies so the ZL1 comes equipped with Tremec's excellent 6-speed manual transmission, giant Brembo brakes, Magnetic Ride Control Suspension, heads-up display, and other fun stuff.
Most importantly, Chevy seems to finally acknowledged the criticism of the Camaro's interior and replaced the uncomfortable steering wheel, shifter, and pedals for some slick performance-oriented pieces. If Chevy were smart it would do the same on every Camaro. Finally, Chevy is tight-lipped on details like price, fuel economy, and exact performance figures but these details will come soon enough. What wont come soon enough is the fall when the ZR1 hits the streets.
Between the reborn Charger SRT8 and Camaro ZR1, we have a hunch that this fall is going to be EPIC! Thank god Detroit Iron has 9 lives.
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