Having just given us a chance to drive a prototype version of the V-6–powered 2010 Camaro, GM has now released a single shot of the most-powerful version of its reincarnated pony, the SS.
While the simple front three-quarter studio shot doesn’t tell us everything about the vehicle, it tells us enough. The majority of the changes appear on the front fascia where, most notably, the upper nostril from the original Camaro concept makes its way back—just after we’d thought it had been axed. Likewise, the revised face also sports a more pronounced lower lip in addition to a crease just above the fog lights that adds to the aggressive styling.
Aside from the obvious “SS” badging, these are pretty much the only exterior changes evident in the photo. Chevrolet’s souped-up muscle car seems to share all the remaining body panels with its mere mortal brethren—although we are hoping and expecting that rear-end trim has been revised as well. The only remaining evidence of change are the upgraded four-piston Brembo brakes peeking out from behind the standard 20-inch alloy wheels.
However, what the SS may lack in visual stimulus over the base versions, it makes up for in pure brawn. The most-powerful version of the Camaro will be available with a choice of two engines and transmissions. Making 422 hp and 408 lb-ft, the 6.2-liter V-8 LS3 engine will be available in six-speed manual guise only. If rowing a shifter and working a clutch aren’t your bag, your six-speed automatic SS will come equipped with a similar 6.2-liter V-8 L99 engine. Unlike the LS3, the L99 has fuel-saving cylinder deactivation, but be prepared to lose 22 hp and 13 lb-ft in exchange. (For the math-averse, that’s 400 hp and 395 lb-ft.)
In any event, while the lack of styling differentiation may be disconcerting, we expect the first smoky burnout will make up for any shortcomings.
