We're weeks away from the highly-anticipated debut of the mid-engined Chevrolet Corvette C8, but now a report is circulating about the carmaker's other two-door performance car: the Camaro. And the news isn't great, mind you.
According to a report by Muscle Cars & Trucks, General Motors is reportedly suspending the development of the next-gen Camaro, and the nameplate will "likely be shelved again" after the current model is discontinued in 2023.
It's now in third place in the Great Musclecar Wars having recently fallen behind the Dodge Challenger. The Ford Mustang still is the winner of this war, but it has since been consistent. The Challenger meanwhile has seen a rise in numbers over the past year.
The sales of the Chevy Camaro have seen a drop of 25% from 2017 to 2018, and 2019 doesn't look any better. However, not all hope is lost for the fans of the pony car. Still, GM didn't deny the report regarding the discontinuation, according to Motor 1.
"While we will not engage in speculation, we will remind you of our recently announced updates coming to the Camaro lineup this fall. An all-new LT1 model will provide customers V8 power with the design and affordability of our LT trim.
"The award-winning SS model will feature a new front fascia from the Camaro Shock concept. All of our updates are customer-driven to improve the car and its driving experience."
We're not sure if the Camaro is merely taking a break like it did from 2003 to 2009. But if the report is true, die-hard fans of Chevy can at least look forward to the first mid-engine Corvette. Following more than three decades of sales, Chevrolet shelved the model but decided to bring it back later as a retro-inspired companion to the more robust Corvette.
The current Camaro that we have right now in its sixth generation rides on GM's Alpha platform, underpinning the Cadillac CTS and ATS. Both variants will soon be replaced by the up and coming CT4 and CT5 sedans sitting on the A2XX platform. The original plan was for the Camaro to follow suit. With the report of the Camaro being discontinued, it's as if GM has given up on the battle and allowed Ford and Dodge to reign the battle.
Meanwhile, GM is keeping several Chevrolet car models in showrooms but has been investing billions into the expansion of its truck and SUV portfolio. By 2023 the company is said to launch 20 electric cars.
