Fifth Generation Camaro – 2010-2015
Tom Peters, Chevrolet Camaro exterior design director (Currently owns: 1969 Camaro)
“They say absence makes the heart grow fonder and that couldn’t have been truer than as demonstrated with the enthusiasm that followed the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro,” says Peters. “After an eight-year absence, the return of Camaro was a thunderbolt that reignited the passion of Camaro enthusiasts around the world. It’s a car design for those who like to drive, and its elegant design makes you smile every time.”
While the iconic 1969 Camaro was the unmistakable inspiration for the fifth-generation Camaro, its design had to be more than simply a 21st century update, according to Peters. “Distilling the timeless essence of the design and translating into a fresh, contemporary Camaro was a challenge. The final design perfectly straddled that razor-sharp line between heritage and retro – and with five straight years at the top of the segment, clearly the fifth-generation Camaro connected with a whole new group of enthusiasts.”
Peters focused on the 2010 Camaro SS to call out the highlights of the fifth-generation design.
“It’s all about proportion and sculpture – from the dash-to-axle dimension that suggests performance to the efficient, 2+2 canopy,” he says. Its sculptural design conveys lean power.
“The cross-car, dual-plane grille is a heritage cue reimagined and gives the car a sporty character and the sharp bodyside crease is a great example of a fundamental, timeless element that is consistent throughout the Camaro’s history and works just as effectively on the fifth-generation.”
The rear fender ‘gills’ of the 2010 model pay homage to the iconic cue of the 1969 Camaro while the dual-element taillamps are a signature Chevrolet cue. The hood also evokes the style of the first-gen cowl-induction power bulge, while the rear-fender kick-up feature adds muscular character to the overall design.
GM’s done a great job keeping its launch date a secret, but we’ve now learned that the sixth generation Camaro is expected to make its first appearance at a special event on May 16 on Belle Isle in Detroit. The new car will make its debut alongside some of the more significant vehicles from the brand’s history and the new Camaro designers will be on hand. For more information or to register for the event, visit www.thecamarosix.com.
