News Source: topspeed.com

Chevrolet  has launched the first performance variant for the sixth-generation Camaro.  Taking place at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show,  the automaker has debuted the 2017 Camaro 1LE.

The sixth-generation 1LE departs from tradition, however, and is offered on both the Camaro SS  and the V-6 model, rather than just the higher-output, V-8 Camaro.  Like before, the 1LE package turns the Camaro into a handling car, focusing on suspension parts, fatter tires, and bigger brakes.

The 1LE package does use different parts between the V-6 and V-8 versions, with the V-8 obviously being the more track-ready of the two. That’s not to say the V-6 is a dud. In fact, Al Oppenheiser, the chief engineer for Camaro, says the V-6 1LE produces track times at the Willow Springs Raceway comparable with the fifth-generation 1LE – a car equipped with the 6.2-liter LS3 V-8. Impressive.

But before diving into the new 1LE’s details, let’s look at its background. The 1LE package was introduced in 1988 as a performance package option based on Chevy’s SCCA Showroom Stock racing program. The 1LE bundle was offered until 1999, but remained a low-volume specification that rarely sold more than 100 units per year. The 1LE returned in 2013 as a package offered on 1SS and 2SS trims of the fifth-generation car, and included various ZL1-sourced parts, a Tremec six-speed manual transmission, and many sporty features. The matt-black hood was its most recognizable visual trademark – something that returns for 2017. Updated 02/12/2016: We added a series of new images of the new Camaro 1LE taken during its official unveiling at the 216 Chicago Auto Show. Check them out in the "Pictures" tab. The Camaro 1LE shares most of its details with non-1LE examples. Both V-6 and V-8 Camaros wear the same body panels and grilles, though the 1LE package adds several unique features. A front splitter protrudes from the lower fascia, adding downforce; 1LE-exclusive, three-piece rear spoiler sits on the deck lid; and the hood is satin black, regardless of body color. Here’s the specific on the V-6 and V-8 models.

The most noticeable difference is the satin black hood standing apart from the body color. Those with a trained eye will spot the rear spoiler next, then the 20-inch, 10-spoke, black wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. The tires come sized in 245/40 up front and 275/35 out back. The V-6 Camaro’s grille is modified for higher airflow for better cooling, while getting satin black accents to further separate the 1LE from the standard Camaro. The side mirrors also come coated in satin black.

From behind the car, the badging is the only sure way to tell a V-6 1LE from its V-8 brother. The V-8 comes with an SS badge below the left taillight, while the V-6 doesn’t have an emblem. The quad, chrome-tipped exhaust and rear fascia are identical to both V-6 and V-8 cars.

Like the standard Camaro SS, the V-8 1LE comes with an SS-exclusive front end with larger openings verses the V-6. Satin black accents on the front splitter, rear spoiler, and side mirrors are present as well, along with the satin black hood. The SS’ hood vents are still present, helping heat escape the engine bay.

The SS 1LE runs the same Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, but they come in larges sizes. Up front the tires are sized in 285/30, while the rear gets massive 305/30 rubber. That matches the fifth-generation’s ZL1’s tire setup, minus the aspect ratio. All four wheels are sized at 20 inches and the design is unique to the car.

In back, the SS 1LE features the same bumper, lower fascia, and exhaust tips as the standard SS, leaving only the tall spoiler as the tale-tell sign of the 1LE package.

The 1LE package adds the same interior upgrades to both V-6 and V-8 Camaros. The steering wheel and shifter are covered in suede for better gripping, while heavily bolstered Recaro front seats are optional. Also available is Chevy’s Performance Data Recorder. The option allows owners to record video through a camera mounted near the rearview mirror. The video footage is then overlaid with performance data like speed, engine revs, g-forces, braking force, and lap times. This marks the first time Chevy has offered its PDR in the Camaro.

Beyond that, the Camaro’s interior remains unchanged. Of course, the 2017 model retains all the updates from the all-new 2016 Camaro. These include a completely redesigned dashboard, larger infotainment screen with the latest MyLink software, a large TFT display between two analog gauges behind the steering wheel, and better fitments and materials throughout. The biggest differences lie under the hood and each wheel. The V-6 and V-8 cars not only use different engines, but also get different suspension set-ups tuned specifically for each application. Let dive into it.

The V-6 Camaro is powered by a 3.6-liter, all-aluminum engine that makes 335 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque. The naturally aspirated unit is mated to a six-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear tires. While much of the driveline doesn’t change, the 1LE package does add a short-throw shifter onto the manual gearbox and the SS’ high-flow fuel system for higher-load corning capability. The Camaro’s eight-speed automatic is not offered with the 1LE. There is one major change, however. The 1LE package gets a mechanically limited-slip differential with 3.27 ratio gears. This helps the V-6 put power to the ground for effectively.