For the 2013 model year, the Camaro 1LE performance package returns for Camaro SS coupes. The package upgrades the Camaro’s gearing, suspension tuning, and tires that makes the model capable of more than 1 g of lateral acceleration and a sub-three minute lap time at Virginia International Raceway’s Grand Course.
The 1LE performance package is only available on Camaro SS models with a manual transmission. The upgrades include an exclusive Tremec TR6060-MM6 gearbox with a higher 3.91 final-drive ratio and a standard air-to-liquid cooling system for track use. The 1LE package also includes exclusive, monotube rear dampers instead of the twin-tube dampers on SS models. The new hardware allowed engineers to tune the 1LE suspension to focus on optimal body-motion control while preserving much of the ride quality and wheel-motion control of the Camaro SS.
Other changes to optimize the 1LE for track-day use include larger front and rear stabilizer bars, ZL1-based 20 x 10-inch front and 20 x 11-inch aluminum wheels, 285/35ZR20 Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires, a strut tower brace and the ZL1 high-capacity fuel pump.
The 1LE performance package also adds a matte-black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler ,while the interior gets a flat-bottom steering wheel and short-throw shifter from the ZL1 that are covered in sueded microfiber.
“The Camaro 1LE combines the best elements of the SS and ZL1 to take road-racing performance to a whole new level,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “That the 1LE breaks the three-minute lap at VIR puts it in the upper echelon of performance cars. That it starts under $40,000 makes the Camaro 1LE one of the most affordable, most capable track-day cars offered by any manufacturer.”
GM has also announced that Chevy’s color touch radio with MyLink infotainment is available on all 2013 Camaro LT, SS and ZL1 models. The color touch radio, with a 7-inch touch screen, also can be paired with an available in-dash GPS navigation system – a first for the Camaro. The color touch radio with MyLink gives customers a higher level of in-vehicle wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options, while building on the safety and security of OnStar.
