Journalists, it is often accurately noted, are a pretty cynical bunch. This is especially true after the second or third day of a car show, after fourteen-hour days of being barraged with endless corporate speak about things like “A new design direction” or “The dawn of a new era for [insert company name here].”

This year, things are a little different, but one benefit of these trying economic times at this year’s more subdued Detroit Auto Show is that we haven’t been subjected to quite as much drivel about new models “Appealing to young, upwardly mobile urban customers.” Like all too many Americans, many of them, sadly, are not as upwardly mobile as they were and aren’t buying much of anything.

All of this is why the Chevrolet Camaro Black concept is so refreshing. It is, indeed, black, just like the black letters on the front fenders claim. Beyond that, there’s not much to say about it. A bunch of it is black, from the grille, to the trim, to the wheels and even the lugnuts. Black it is, really really black.

Actually, I like the look of it. Better still, I like the lack of hype.

--Jim Travers