Chevy Unveils Camaro Aimed at Autocrossers

Chevy unveiled quite a few concepts at the 2016 SEMA Show last night, but one in particular caught our eye: It’s a Camaro concept built specifically for autocross.

The new Camaro Turbo AutoX concept combines the LTG 2.0L turbocharged engine with their new SG3 performance suspension package, upgraded brakes, air intake and exhaust system. We think it’s pretty awesome that Chevy is putting effort into a car specifically for our modest sport of autocross. More information can be found in Chevy’s press release pasted below:

“This concept pushes Camaro in a new direction, integrating new performance parts that make the most of the turbocharged Camaro’s lightweight dynamics,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.

The concept features the Chevrolet Performance suspension lowering kit, which includes stiffer springs and specifically tuned dampers and lowers the ride height up to 0.75 inch (20mm). It is matched with a concept “plus performance” handling kit including larger stabilizer bars and stiffer suspension links. A concept strut tower brace under the hood provides additional chassis stiffness. The whole system contributes to improved roll stiffness and quicker turn-in performance.

AutoX rolls on concept Chevrolet Accessories 20-inch aluminum wheels and Goodyear 285/35R20 performance tires. Engineers added Chevrolet Performance’s front brake kit, featuring six-piston calipers and 370mm, two-piece slotted rotors.

For maximum performance lap after lap, a concept cold-air intake system has been fitted to the 2.0L turbo engine and a calibration upgrade to its controller optimizes performance across the rpm band. The turbocharger generates up to 20 pounds of boost and its twin-scroll design helps make the most of the usable power from the engine, practically eliminating turbo lag and helping deliver a broad powerband.

When it’s time to change gears, the concept’s six-speed manual transmission features a concept short-throw shifter to make quicker work of it.

A Chevrolet Performance exhaust system with a polished 4-inch outlet offers a throatier exhaust note and reduces backpressure by approximately 14 percent. An Active Noise Cancellation calibration update is included for vehicles with the Bose® stereo system.

“It’s a great engine for an autocross course because the strong torque production means you can hold a lower gear and just run through the cones without constant shifting,” said Mark Dickens, director of Performance Variants and Parts. “And with the concept handling package providing amazing handling, this car is simply a blast to drive ? and a real surprise for some of the tuner drivers.”

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