Chevrolet has taken the top off its iconic Camaro and the new convertible model has been confirmed for January next year.
The droptop model is claimed to possess greater torsional rigidity than the current BMW 3 Series convertible while the tailor made power retractable cloth top retracts in around 20 seconds.
Actuated by an easy-to-use single latch, the top is made of thick, durable canvas and it features acoustical headliner material that provides a quiet, coupe-like ride when the top is up. It also incorporates a glass rear window with defogger.
"The launch of the new convertible opens Camaro design and performance to a new set of potential customers," said Chevrolet's vice president of marketing, Chris Perry.
"The 21st century revival of Camaro is tremendously popular, so it's a natural to now expand and elevate the product range in new directions."
426 horsepower (313kW) is produced by a 6.2-litre V8 engine, available with a choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions. Camaro convertible will offer similar model configurations to those already found in the Camaro coupe.
GM says the sporty convertible will deliver the same driving dynamics as those found in the coupe with strategic reinforcements enhancing the already-stiff body structure to eliminate common convertible maladies of scuttle and (steering) rack shake.
"Our goal in development was to make the convertible match the coupe as closely as possible in ride quality, handling and overall performance," said Camaro's chief engineer, Al Oppenheiser.
"To compensate for the reduced structure of an open car, engineers often will make the suspension softer, making the convertible a boulevard cruiser.
"Instead, we took the more difficult, but better path of bolstering structure rather than softening the suspension. We didn't change a strut, bushing or spring rate from the Camaro coupe."
The result, says GM, is a convertible that preserves nearly all the acceleration, road-holding and performance capabilities of the Camaro coupe.
Camaro convertible will be available from January next year in the US with European and UK markets to follow later in the year.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site