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This Is The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE

Not only has the 1LE package returned to the sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro, but this time around, it’s taken everything loved about the nameplate, and dialed it up to eleven. Chevrolet has graced the Windy City with the 2017 Camaro 1LE.

For the fifth-generation Camaro 1LE’s true successor, there is plenty to love, and plenty to make a Shelby GT350 very scared. Of course, power comes from the 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine, but that isn’t wear the magic starts here. The 2017 Camaro 1LE SS begins with the addition of Magnetic Ride Control and an FE4 suspension tuning coupled with a new, 1LE SS exclusive eLSD (electronic limited-slip differential). Paired with utterly monstrous 285/30ZR20 front and 305/30ZR20 rear Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, Chevrolet states the 2017 Camaro 1LE SS will have no issues pulling over 1G in lateral acceleration.

2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE 002

Recaro seats are standard at the 1LE SS trim, and the optional Performance Data Recorder remains ready to record blistering lap times around a favorite circuit. The 2017 SS 1LE sets itself apart stylistically with unique 20-inch wheels and a satin black hood, front splitter and a unique three-piece spoiler. Other notable features of the 2017 1LE SS include the following:

  • Brembo brakes with new six-piston monobloc front red calipers – featuring the 1LE logo – and two-piece rotors measuring 14.6 inches (370mm) in diameter, the front rotors are 7 percent larger than Camaro SS
  • Specific tuning for the Magnetic Ride dampers, springs and stabilizer bars
  • Track-cooling package, with engine oil, differential and transmission coolers
  • Suede steering wheel with shorter-throw shifter.

The entire package came together masterfully, according to Chevrolet, where the 2017 Camaro 1LE SS shaved three-seconds off a standard sixth-generation Camaro SS at the Big Willow course at Willow Springs.

“The Camaro 1LE packages follow a recipe any track-day enthusiast will appreciate,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “Start with a lightweight, stiff structure and then add higher levels of suspension stiffness and damping, more aggressive tires, higher downforce, more powerful brakes and more cooling.

“The result delivers better performance in all measures,” said Oppenheiser. “In our development tests, the V-6 Camaro 1LE delivers lap times comparable with the previous-gen V-8 model. The 2016 Camaro SS 1LE sets the new benchmark for the segment, lapping the Big Willow track at Willow Springs three seconds faster than the standard Camaro SS.”

Oh, and flappy-paddle gearbox lovers need not apply – the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE  will be offered only with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Chevrolet will begin availability of the 1LE package in late 2016 as the Camaro transitions to the 2017 model year, with pricing to follow at a later date.

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Former GM Authority staff writer.

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Comments

  1. It appears that General Motors is finally waking up.. as they’re doing whatever it takes to get product to the showroom as quickly as possible. One has to wonder whether this new version of the Camaro 1LE will feature a 10-speed automatic transmission General Motors has been developing in cooperation with Ford.

    Reply
  2. This would be at the top of my shopping list, but for two missing options:

    1. Option pack CSD, “Cartoon Styling Delete”
    2. A Sawzall, to cut enough glass area to see out of it.

    Yeah, it has enough visibility to be driveable. It does not have enough to remove the closed-in feeling and allow you to instinctively place the car on a narrow road. Look at German cars designed to run on the Autobahn, see a difference? You can see out of those.

    Reply

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