I am sure that GM has been thinking about how the new Camaro should look since they re introduced the car, perhaps even before that. Regardless, the number one thing that will sell the car is looks. I think that since Chevrolet has 40% of the market share, making a major styling change is a gamble I don't think many manfactures would be willing to take.
Chrysler didn't have to take any chances when they re introduced the Challenger. In my opinion, they just jumped on the band wagon. Once retro was a safe bet they jumped in, and for the most part nailed it, looks wise anyway.
One thing can be learned however by ford in this situation, is to go with what people want. Ford were the first to come out with the retro design and proved that people wanted it. It is unfortunate that Chevrolet waited so long, but now that it has the market share it needs to maintain it, and if possible surpass it. With that said it is a safe bet that a redesign should incorporate everything about the 5th gen that people want with perhaps a few more retro styling cues.
Obviously they are limited by regulations and mass production that will not allow for an actual first gen body style, but in my opinion the new Challenger as great as it looks, looks nothing like an old Challenger when parked side by side.
I hate to say in now, but, in retrospect, I think Chevrolet did the right thing with the 5th Gen design, even though at the time, I was disapointed it was not more retro. One can only speculate, on what would have happened if they came out with a more retro design. I, like most, would like to think it would have been a far greater success. Shoulda, woulda, coulda!!!!
Bearing in mind the new design challeges, I think these improvements should be made, IMHO.
1. Narrow the A pillars
2. Lower/smaller rear end/trunk area so a proper spoiler could be added with blocking the rear view completly
3. Drop overall height and make it wider so it does not look like a Challenger or Mustang
4. Make the dash more retro. Pick a year, 68 or 69. In between is not working at all
5. Retro 69 tail lights. Tail lights are are a signature look for the Mustang/Challeneger
6. Retro 69 Grill with RS Option. Grill a signature look for the Mustang/Challenger
7. Z28 Model, manual trans only, high winding motor, Skunk Stripes, proper badging, primary original 69 colors only
8. More pronounced rounded fenders, for a wider look. Currently to boxy and squared off
9. Longer rear quarters or smaller doors to enhance the shark gills
10. Redesigned interior with a more retro look, leather & houndstooth 69 deluxe theme & primary colors
