2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE Gets ZL1 Handling, Lower MSRP

Just when the Ford Mustang seems to have an advantage over the Chevrolet Camaro, Chevy engineers come up with a way to sway momentum back into the bowtie's direction. Following recent introductions that include the Camaro convertible and the high-performance Camaro ZL1, the Camaro is now going after the track-ready Mustang Boss 302 with the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE package. This package will go on sale this fall, and while Chevy hasn't announced official pricing yet, it confirmed that the car will start under $40,000.

Offered only on the Camaro SS, the new 1LE package will come only with the six-speed manual transmission which means the 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 will be under the hood with its 426 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. For the 1LE, the transmission is an exclusive Tremec gearbox that uses a higher 3.91 final-drive ratio and a air-to-liquid cooling system - both are important for road racing performance and durability. Other 1LE-exclusive features include larger front and rear stabilizer bars, front strut tower brace and stiffer rear axle shafts. The Camaro 1LE will also use several components from the ZL1 like the staggered-width, 20-inch wheels with performance summer tires, high-capacity fuel pump and even ZL1's upgraded wheel bearing and rear shock mounts. With all of these upgrades focused on improving the Camaro's performance and handling, Chevrolet is trying to get the 1LE package certified to race in the SCCA Touring Class.

Like its rival, the Boss 302, the new 2013 Camaro 1LE will also have an exclusive appearance inside and out. Aside from the ZL1's black, 10-spoke wheels, this car will get a unique fascia with a front air splitter, a matte-black hood and a rear decklid spoiler.

“With the 2013 model year, Camaro offers something for almost every driver, including: the 323-horsepower, 30-mpg 2LS; the all-new, 580-horsepower supercharged ZL1 convertible; the COPO Camaro for drag-racing; and the new 1LE for amateur track days,” said John Fitzpatrick, Camaro marketing manager. “We expect the range of choices, and enhancements for 2013, will help Camaro remain America’s most-popular sports car.”

In addition to the 1LE, the 2013 Camaro SS will also get some of the ZL1's equipment trickled down in standard form such as the electric power steering and the optional dual-mode, vacuum-actuated exhaust system. Possibly the biggest news for all 2013 Chevy Camaro models, though, might be the fact that the car is now available with an in-dash navigation system.