Chevrolet Gives the Camaro a Much-needed Nose Job for SEMA

In what might be one of the quickest shifts to a styling change in recent memory, it appears Chevrolet might be into the idea of fixing the gaping maw on its Camaro SS by repositioning its bowtie.

Gee … if only someone had mocked up such a fix in the form of a hastily-cropped image. Oh, wait! That’s right! We did just that last week.

Thank you for listening, GM.

Not that I’m under any illusions that Detroit brass cast their gaze upon my mumblings here, of course. The PR bumf (a lot of you enjoyed that word before so I’ll use it here again) for this Camaro SEMA show car primarily focuses on a variety of new colors, including the extrovert-approved Shock pictured above. In addition to the safety-vest green, new hues include Crush and Riverside Blue.

But the most gratifying news comes in the form of what Chevrolet describes as “concept” front-end styling for the SS. Let’s quickly remind ourselves of what the current SS looks like versus TTAC’s suggested fix. The top image is our fix:

Now, compare our render to the official Chevy photo.

I like both of them, noting that anything’s better than the old, drawn-out face. Too bad this particular SEMA-bound stag is a one-off (for now, anyway). For 2019, LS/LT and SS models gain a new grille, dual-element headlamps, hood, and LED signature lighting. The ZL1 model retains its airflow optimized front-end styling, while the RS package also receives unique headlamps and lighting signature.

Camaro shoppers will also be able to select from an expanded portfolio of accessories and performance parts. Such kit will include a black wing spoiler, cold-air induction kits, and Recaro seats. Those headed to the track can spec Brembo-branded brakes and 1LE suspension components.

It makes sense for The General to expand its catalog of available gear. Doing so allows it to take a bit out of the aftermarket, serving parts and pieces up to customers during the initial sale. If these items are plowed into the note, it’ll also serve to slightly increase average transaction prices. Several grand of go-fast goodies are easier to swallow when the cost is built into the car’s monthly payment and spread out over several years. We’ll gloss over the extra finance costs of doing so.

This would also be a good time to remind all hands that the Camaro SS will also now be available with a 10-speed flappy paddle automatic, a unit that will allow the hairy-chested pony car to do line lock burnouts (just like a Mustang). There’s also a new Turbo 1LE trim, but you don’t want that. Get the 6.2L V8.

[Image: General Motors]