Chevy Camaro convertible first look

Common ground

The long-awaited Camaro Convertible made its first appearance at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. Like the Camaro coupe, the convertible is based on the Holden Commodore. There's a choice of two familiar engines, direct-injection 3.6-litre V6 and a 6.2-litre V8.

Topless

Although it loses the roof line of the Camaro coupe, the convertible version adds much-needed visibility with the top down. The top is canvas and includes an internal headliner to reduce external noise.

Kid with braces

Chevrolet stiffened the body of the Camaro Convertible with tower, transmission tunnel and V braces front and rear to compensate for the removal of the roof. The company claims the car has more torsional rigidity than a BMW 3-series convertible.

Stowaways

The power-operated top folds down and stows under a tonneau cover in 20 seconds. To keep the car's lines clean, Chevrolet integrated the radio antenna into the rear spoiler. A fin antenna is added for satellite radio.

Row your boat

A six-speed manual transmission comes standard with the Camaro Convertible, with a six-speed automatic transmission also available.

Navigation, old school style

Like the coupe, a navigation system is not available with the Camaro Convertible, although the car does come with OnStar for concierge navigation. The stereo uses seven speakers, including a subwoofer.

It needs to be at least three times larger

Chevy is giving away Hot Wheels models of the car during the Los Angeles Auto Show, which runs from November 19 to 28.

Via CNET US