Camaro Track Model Adds Automatic Transmission

A 10-speed automatic transmission will be available in General Motors Co.’s 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE, marking the first time an automatic gearbox will be offered in the top-end track car since 1992.

Chevy, which describes the ZL1 1LE as the fastest, most track-capable Camaro ever, says customer demand dictated the addition of the automatic transmission. The car’s standard gearbox is a 6-speed manual.

Automatic transmissions are equipped on 80% of all Camaros sold in the U.S.

In addition to added convenience, GM says the 10-speed enables faster shifts over the manual unit. This can shave half of a second off the time of a 1LE with a manual on GM's 2.9-mile course in Milford, Mich., according to the carmaker.

On longer courses, such as Germany’s Nurburgring circuit, GM estimates the benefit will be several seconds for the 10-speed. The automatic gearbox also is quieter than a manual.

Engineers fine-tuned performance characteristics of the automatic for the Camaro track car. Changes include recalibrating the transmission, electronic limited slip differential and traction management system.

The Multimatic suspension spool valve dampers also have been tuned to accommodate the quicker shifts in weight transfer. New hardware includes a new transmission oil pan and an additional cooling duct for the steering gear.

Dealer deliveries of the Camaro 1LE with the automatic are due to start late next month. The $1,600 option gearbox will boost the price of the track car to $74,800, including a $1,700 gas guzzler tax.