2010 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette lineup gains a new model, the Grand Sport. Chevy's performance car comes as a coupe and convertible. Both body styles are available in Base and Grand Sport trim levels. Grand Sport replaces the Z51 option package and includes specific styling cues, suspension tuning, brakes, and transmission gearing. These models have a 430-hp 6.2-liter V8 engine.

An optional "dual-mode" exhaust system increases horsepower to 436. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Chevy offers other high-performance Corvette models, the Z06 and ZR1, both available only as coupes. Z06 has a 505-hp 7.0-liter V8, 6-speed manual transmission, specific suspension tuning, tires, and brakes. ZR1 has a supercharged 638-hp 6.2-liter V8 engine and 6-speed manual transmission. ZR1 differs from other Corvettes by its unique suspension tuning and use of lightweight carbon fiber on the hood, roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter, and rocker moldings.

All manual-transmission Corvette models incorporate GM's new Launch Control, which modulates engine speed in order to maximize grip during full-throttle launches. The ZR1 adds a "Performance Traction Management" system, which automatically adjusts the traction control and suspension to suit high-performance driving. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and side airbags. Among the available features are a head-up display, navigation system, and wireless cell phone link.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is easily the most-anticipated new car of the 2010 model year, with head-turning styling, gobs of power, and an amazingly reasonable price. Price range $22,995 - $38,905, EPA fuel economy estimates 16-18 MPG city, 25-29 MPG highway.

The Camaro's base engine is a 3.6 liter V6 that delivers a healthy 304 horsepower, 96 more than a Mustang V6 and only 15 less than a Mustang V8. Using direct fuel injection, it delivers respectable fuel economy on 87-octane gas. The SS gets a Corvette-sourced 6.2 liter V8 good for 426 hp -- one more than the Challenger SRT8 -- with the manual trans, but only 400 with the automatic. The manual's clutch is difficult to modulate and the shifter is sized for people with Hulk hands, but the automatic is top notch, with a Sport mode that always knows which gear to pick and does so with firm, solid shifts, just like an old-time muscle car.