Chevrolet Camaro and Aveo Make European Debut at Frankfurt
Chevrolet introduces the Camaro coupe and convertible to Europe, alongside the new turbo-diesel Aveo, at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Chevrolet has confirmed the European debut of the Camaro coupe and convertible at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales set to begin in September 2011. The move brings the American muscle car to European showrooms with German prices starting at €38,990 for the coupe and €43,990 for the convertible.
The Camaro arrives in both coupe and convertible forms, with styling that draws on the 1969 original. Chevrolet offers a range of trims: LS, 1LT, 2LT, 1SS and 2SS for the coupe, while the convertible is available as 1LT, 2LT, 1SS and 2SS. The entry-level LS trim is not available on the convertible.
Engine options include a 3.6-litre V6 producing 312hp, an increase of eight horsepower over the previous year, and a 6.2-litre V8. The V8 delivers 400hp with an automatic gearbox and 426hp when paired with a manual transmission. Both engines are available with either manual or automatic gearboxes, giving buyers a choice between relaxed cruising and more traditional muscle car engagement.
Standard equipment for the European Camaro includes features such as remote engine start, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port and satellite radio, as Chevrolet aims to match American specification with technology expected by European buyers.
Aveo turbo-diesel targets European economy segment
Alongside the Camaro, Chevrolet is highlighting the new Aveo 1.3-litre turbo-diesel at Frankfurt. The Aveo Eco variant produces 95hp and emits 95g/km of CO2, according to the manufacturer. A 75hp version is also offered, which Chevrolet claims is Europe’s most fuel-efficient sedan in its class at launch.
The Aveo’s focus on low emissions and fuel economy is aimed squarely at the European small car market, where running costs and taxation are determined by CO2 output. Chevrolet positions the Aveo diesel as a practical, cost-efficient choice for buyers prioritising efficiency over outright performance.
Positioning Chevrolet in the European market
The Camaro’s arrival gives Chevrolet a direct competitor in the European sports coupe and convertible market, going up against established models from Ford and others. The Aveo, meanwhile, targets high-volume, cost-conscious buyers in a segment dominated by European and Asian rivals.
Chevrolet’s dual approach at Frankfurt, muscle car heritage with the Camaro and efficiency with the Aveo diesel, highlights the brand’s attempt to broaden its appeal across the continent. The company is banking on the Camaro’s iconic image and the Aveo’s frugality to win buyers in two very different corners of the market.
For more on the Camaro’s development and European debut, see our coverage of the facelifted Camaro Convertible at the Frankfurt Motor Show:Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Facelift Debuts at Frankfurt Motor Show
