Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 details leak out

Details about the high-performance 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, taken from the dealer ordering guide, are spreading on the Internet courtesy of fans on the Camaro5 message board.

Here are some of the highlights:

-- The LSA supercharged 6.2-liter V8 will deliver 580 hp and 556 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. It will connect with a Tremec six-speed manual transmission as standard, while a Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic will be optional.

-- The Camaro ZL1 is longer and wider than the current Shelby Mustang GT500 and weighs in at 4,120 pounds.

-- The ZL1 gets an aluminum hood with carbon-fiber "Mohawk" insert, which General Motors says needs to be cared for carefully.

-- The lighting package will be unique and will include dual fog lamps, separate daytime running lights and HID headlights with halo rings. A lower splitter will reduce lift while the larger and lower front grille opening will provide more cooling power.

-- GM also notes that the Camaro ZL1 sits lower than the Camaro SS, so buyers will need to be careful around high curbs.

-- For wheel packages, the ZL1 offers two 20-inch options, a 10-spoke and a five-spoke wheel. Both measure 10 inches wide in front and 11 inches in back. The five-spoke set has a polished face with a high-gloss clearcoat. The Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar G2 tires come with an extra bit of rubber overhanging the rim to prevent damage on curbs.

-- The ZL1 will have a head-up display. Shift lights are included, as are a lateral g meter that holds the value to give you a chance to look before the next corner. A gear indicator is available on cars that have automatic transmissions.

-- In addition to the Magnetic Ride Control that is also used in the Cadillac CTS-V and the Chevrolet Corvette, the ZL1 also will get Performance Track Management. PTM features five modes ranging from wet with a touring suspension setup to race mode with track suspension stiffness. Brembo brakes will bring everything to a halt.

-- Buyers have a choice of nine colors.

The Camaro ZL1 coupe will arrive at dealerships early next year with a price expected to fall in the low-$50,000 range.

By Jake Lingeman