Camaro May Lose Its Buzz by 2009

Last week's unveiling of the Chevrolet Camaro convertible concept won oohs and aahs that rivaled those for the Camaro coupe concept shown at last year's auto show.

But at least a few analysts and prospective buyers question whether General Motors Corp. can keep the excitement going until the sports car reaches showrooms in 2009.

"The positive buzz in 2009 certainly won't be as intense as when the coupe first rolled out last year," said auto analyst Kevin Tynan of Argus Research in New York. "You even saw it last week. The convertible generated some excitement, but it didn't generate as much buzz as the coupe did last year. ... The response was: 'OK. Just build it already.' "


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jeffy210 - 1/19/2007 9:56:32 AM

+4 Boost

Unless there is some secret plan to release this as an '08 model and surprise people, I think GM is shooting themselves in the foot by not releasing it earlier.

It doesn't look like much has changed or will change, so what is keeping them from putting it into production?

dumpsty - 1/19/2007 10:04:27 AM

+2 Boost

I think initial sales of the new Camaro will be disappointing. Just like all those GTO fans that encourage GM to being a new one the US. Of all the fans, there were only so many that could afford it...if they liked the exterior design. Pricing will be very important as is engine option at the Camaro's initial sales release. If dealers only order "optioned-out" V8s, with their additional "dealer markups", the Camaro will have dismal sales figures. It will be smart to order a good number of V6s as well as V8s for not all the buy public wants (or can afford) the higher-end options. Of course, the Camaro must look at least 90% of what the concept looks like in order for this car to be true sales hit.

lewissalem - 1/19/2007 2:04:24 PM

+2 Boost

I don't understand why a company like GM uses an auto show as a focus group, waits a year, then decides if it's going to build a vehicle.

I know, GM is the largest car company but come on guys!

no1listensanyway - 1/20/2007 5:21:57 AM

+1 Boost

I don't think there is enough of a market to support the mustang, challenger and camaro. The camaro itself will probabaly be a great product but would not be able to be the halo car they are looking for.

FIREBIRDZ28 - 2/8/2007 5:03:49 PM

+1 Boost

I have to agree GM are shooting themselves in the foot waiting until 2009 to release the new Camaro. People don't want to wait until 2009 for a car they want now and the longer GM leave it the more the hype deflates and the interest is lost. GM would have been better leaving announcing the Camaro concept until they where near completion with the production line model there by riding on the success of the Concept hype.