Detroit Motor Show

Chevrolet Camaro blows its top

A stunning model went topless at Detroit - and the good news is that it's on its way to the UK, too!

Auto Express Car Reviews

Cabrio has orange paint and chrome screen surround

10th January 2007

Chevrolet's retro-inspired Camaro has already been given the go-ahead for British sales, and now General Motors bosses have whetted our appetites with this wild drop-top version.

The Camaro Convertible Concept was unveiled at the US extravaganza, and, roof apart, there's little to separate it from the aggressive tin-top model. So the deeply hooded headlamps and bulging wheelarches that made the original coupé show car such a hit are present and correct.

Key additions include a chrome windscreen surround and distinctive orange paint job. Among the other neat details is a set of big five-spoke alloy wheels with charcoal centre sections, to match the bodywork's twin stripes, and orange rims.

The production Chevy looks set to be fitted with a powerful V8 engine which, mated to a manual gearbox, ensures strong performance. What's more, there will be a fabric soft-top under the smart tonneau cover when the machine arrives in 2009.

Prices have yet to be confirmed, but the four-seater cabrio is expected to start from around £28,000. The Camaro convertible wasn't the only newcomer wowing the crowds on the company's show stand. Take a look at the Malibu family car, which will slug it out with class competitors such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in the US market.

The Malibu points to the styling of future Chevrolet models, particularly with its striking chrome-rimmed radiator grille. In addition, its twin circular rear light clusters and smart two-tone interior could become design trademarks for the brand.