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PART THREE: Winding Down The Camaro…
The Chevrolet Camaro 2010-2024
âȘ The late 1990s and early 2000s was the Age Of Retro. The 1997 Plymouth Prowler, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser and 2005 Chevrolet HHR were retro-styled versions of hot rods and surf wagons, but the 2002 Ford Thunderbird, 2005 Ford Mustang, 2006 Dodge Charger and 2008 Dodge Challenger were all retro-styled modern updates of previous models. This is the arena that the fifth-generation Camaro stylists waded into in order to do battle with the rest of Detroit. They had to hit the mark stylistically, and chose the first-generation Camaro as their baseline.
Fifth Generation 2010-2015
After an eight-year hiatus following the discontinuation of the fourth-generation Camaro in 2002, Chevrolet reintroduced the Camaro in 2010, capitalizing on the retro styling trend that had revitalized models like the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger. The fifth-generation Camaro, built on General Motorsâ Zeta platformâa rear-wheel-drive architecture shared with the Australian Holden Commodoreâwas a bold reinterpretation of the original 1967â1969 Camaro. Its design was previewed by the 2006 Camaro Concept, which gained fame through its appearance in the 2007 film Transformers as the Autobot Bumblebee.
The fifth-generation Camaroâs exterior was muscular and aggressive, with a low, wide stance, sculpted fenders, and a prominent grill that echoed the first-generationâs aesthetic. The long hood, short deck, and steeply raked windshield paid homage to its heritage, while modern touches like sleek headlights and aerodynamic lines brought it into the 21st Century.
Inside, the retro theme continued with a dual-cockpit layout, analog gauges inspired by the 1969 model, and an optional center console with four auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, oil temperature, transmission fluid temperature, and battery voltage. However, the interior faced criticism for its use of hard plastics and cramped rear seating, a trade-off for the carâs sporty proportions. (insert 2010 Camaro LS Rear.jpg)
The Camaro was initially offered as a coupe and was available in several trim levels; the base LS, LT and high-performance SS. A range of engines to suit various performance needs was offered, marking a significant leap over its predecessors in power and efficiency. The base engine in the LS and LT was a 3.6-liter (217 cu. in.) V6 producing 304 horsepower, a welcome change from the often tame base engines in previous Camaros and producing nearly as much horsepower as the previous generationâs Z/28.
Paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, the V6 delivered a 0â60 mph time of around 6 seconds, respectable for a modern entry-level sports car. Its direct injection and variable valve timing improved fuel efficiency, achieving up to 28 mpg highway, so your lead foot wouldnât cost that much. The SS featured a 6.2-liter (376 cu. in.) V8, available in two configurations. Models with the six-speed automatic received the L99 engine which produced 400 horsepower, while manual-equipped versions got the LS3 that delivered 426 horsepower, a huge boost from its predecessor. The L99 had an Active Fuel Management system, which enabled the engine to run on only four cylinders during urban driving conditions such as highway cruising.
The SS offered a 0â60 mph sprint in approximately 4.7 seconds, blending brute force straight-line acceleration with refined handling thanks to an independent rear suspensionâa first for the Camaro since its inception. The Camaroâs suspension was a highlight, with a fully independent setup (MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear) and variable-rate power steering providing sharp handling. Stopping power was provided by disc brakes on all four corners with four-piston Brembo calipers on the SS. An RS appearance package was available on the LT and SS that included HID headlights with integrated halo rings, a rear spoiler and RS-specific taillights and wheels. Rally and hockey-stripe packages were available in several colors as well. The Zeta platform, while heavier than ideal at around 3,800â4,200 pounds depending on trim, offered a rigid foundation for performance tuning.
A Transformers Special Edition model was available due to the ties with the movie. The $995 appearance package could be applied to LT and SS models ordered with Rally Yellow paint and included an Autobot shield badge on the driver and passenger side fenders and the center of each wheel and one embroidered on the center console. A Transformers logo replaced the Camaro logo on the door sill plates, and high-gloss black center rally stripes with the Transformers ghost logo were added. (insert 2010 Camaro Indianapolis Pace Car.jpg)
The Camaro was again chosen to pace the Indianapolis 500 in 2010, based on the SS automatic with the 400 HP 6.2 liter V8 with the RS package in Inferno Orange. White Diamond rally stripes ran from the front to the rear. Event and organization logos appeared on both driver and passenger doors and special badging was placed underneath the Camaro nameplate on both front quarter panels. Indianapolis 500 stitching replaced the SS stitching on the head rests. A heritage grill that had been made available as an aftermarket accessory was installed along with an Inferno Orange engine cover. Production was limited to 294 units.
SLP Performance ZL550 and ZL575 were limited-production models of the SS from SLP Performance, and featured a supercharged version of the 6.2 liter producing 550 HP, sending power to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. It featured 20-inch, 5-spoke wheels with ZL center caps and a flat-black decal on the rear taillight. The front suspension was lowered by 1 inch and the rear by 0.8 inch. Brembo brakes, a numbered dashboard plaque and numbered key fobs rounded out the package, of which only 250 were built.
The convertible debuted in 2011 with a power-operated soft top. It also featured structural reinforcements to maintain rigidity. The V6 gained 8 HP to 312 without any engineering changes as Chevrolet claimed that the 304 HP of the 2010 model was a conservative rating. The SS received a sport-tuned suspension option.
The LFX V6 variant was introduced in 2012, producing 323 HP. The SS gained a new FE4 suspension package consisting of retuned front and rear dampers, new 23mm solid front stabilizer bars and 24mm rear stabilizer bars, 20-inch aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 front and P275/40R20 rear tires, a revised instrument panel and steering wheel, and a power lift feature for the front passenger seat, a new Rear Vision camera system. An auto-dimming rearview mirror, new rear spoiler and RS taillamps rounded out the package.
Also new for 2012 was the ZL1, which was the most powerful Camaro ever at the time, boasting a supercharged 6.2-liter LSA V8 generating 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque and pushing the Camaro into legitimate supercar territory. Equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic, magnetic ride control, and performance traction management, the ZL1 achieved a 0â60 mph time of 4 seconds flat and a quarter-mile in the low 12-second range. Its Brembo brakes, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires, and aggressive aerodynamics made it a formidable track machine.
A 45th Anniversary Edition celebrated the Camaro‘s milestone with unique Carbon Flash Metallic paint, a rally stripe in red and silver on the hood and rear deck, fender badging, fog lamp and taillamp bezels finished in dark silver, interior accents, with a new steering wheel with the 45th Anniversary logo and optional MyLink infotainment system.
2013 saw minor updates like a revised grill and new color options. The 1LE package was back for the SS, which added track-focused updates like a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, monotube shocks and wider wheels. This allowed the SS to achieve a sub-8 second NĂŒrburgring lap time.
The Z/28 was back for 2014 in coupe and convertible form, a track-focused variant powered by a naturally aspirated 7.0-liter LS7 V8, borrowed from the Corvette Z06, producing 505 horsepower. A racing-style cold-air induction system with a large K&N filter, a dual-mode exhaust with larger-diameter pipes and a Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission were among the other performance goodies.
Designed for cornering prowess, it featured carbon-ceramic brakes, Pirelli Trofeo R tires, and a stripped-down interior to save weight. The package includes a large splitter connected to and underbody panel, fender flares over the front and rear wheels, extended rocker panels, a re-designed rear spoiler and a functional rear diffuser. The interior was trimmed in a matte-metallic Octane finish with a flat-bottomed steering wheel and Recaro seats with suede microfiber inserts.
The Z/28 lapped Germanyâs NĂŒrburgring in 7:37.47, rivaling supercars costing far more. Changes to other Camaros included a re-designed front and rear end with new headlight and taillight assemblies, resulting in a wider, lower appearance. A functional hood vent appeared on the SS, and Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts were optional.
This generation’s final 2015 year saw minor tech upgrades including Wi-Fi hotspot capability and expanded color options. The Z/28 was back as a limited-production model and has since become a favorite among collectors.
Critics praised the 5th-generation Camaro for its stunning retro design, potent engine choices and dynamic handling, with V6 models lauded for their balance of performance and efficiency. Road & Track and Car & Driver magazines frequently ranked the Camaro as best in its class, with the ZL1 earning comparisons to European exotics. However, flaws were still present. Its heavy curb weight hampered agility compared to lighter rivals like the Mazda Miata or BMW M3, and the interior quality lagged behind competitors. Rear visibility was poor due to the high belt line and small windows. These issues along with high relative prices for upper trim models like SS and ZL1 limited its appeal.
Sixth Generation 2016-2024
The sixth and final Camaro generation was a clean-sheet design built on GM‘s Alpha platform, shared with the Cadillac ATS and CTS. Lighter and stiffer than the old Zeta platform, it shaved 200-400 pounds off the fifth generation’s curb weight, depending in trim level, resulting in a 3,339 lb. base model. It was also slightly smaller, with a 2.5 inch shorter wheelbase and reduced overall length. This enhanced its agility while not taking away from its muscular stance.
The exterior retained the fifth generation’s look, retaining the long hood and short rear deck concept but with sharper lines, a more sculpted grill and slimmer headlights incorporating LED technology on higher-trim models. Distinctive taillights inspired by the first generation graced the rear. Past interior criticisms were addressed with improved materials, a driver-focused cockpit and a modern infotainment system featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The limitations of the design meant that rear-seat space and rear visibility remained issues, however.
Trim levels expanded, with Camaro being offered in LS, LT, and SS form. The LT offered a Camaro-first turbocharged LTG 2.0 liter inline four-cylinder producing 275 HP and 295 ft. lb. of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission or the LTX V6 generating 355 HP, enabling 5-second 0-60 times. Its direct injection and cylinder deactivation features improved efficiency.
The LT1 and SS trims offered a 6.2 liter LT1 V8 that produced 455 HP and 455 ft. lb. of torque, making it a formidable performer. It was available with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling the SS to hit 60 in 4 seconds and run the Πmile in the mid-12 second range.
2017 saw a new ten-speed automatic transmission for the LT1 V8 in the SS. The ZL1 was also re-introduced this year, carrying over the supercharged 6.2 liter LT4 V8 which now produced 650 HP and an equal amount of torque, utilizing the SS‘s new ten-speed automatic or six-speed manual. 0-60 came in a phenomenal 3.5 seconds with the ÂŒ mile flying by at 11.4 seconds.
The ZL1 1LE variant added track-focused upgrades like Multimatic DSSV dampers, adjustable camber plates, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3R tires, a front splitter and three-piece rear spoiler as well as a satin black hood wrap. This allowed the ZL1 1LE to lap the NĂŒrburgring faster than many supercars at 7:16:04. The Alpha platform’s near 50/50 weight distribution, combined with standard magnetic ride control on the SS and ZL1, double-pivot MacPherson struts and a five-link rear suspension gave the new Camaro razor-sharp handling. Stiffer bushings, larger sway bars and lightweight wheels were added with the 1LE package to further enhance track performance.
2018 saw a 50th Anniversary Edition with unique paint, stripes and interior accents, similar to the 45th Anniversary Edition. A Redline Edition added sporty cosmetic upgrades across all trim levels.
This year also saw a 50th Anniversary Hot Wheels Edition (remember those?) with striking orange and black paint and special wheels that looked like those on the old Hot Wheels cars.
For 2019 a mid-cycle refresh brought a controversial new front fascia, particularly on the SS, with a grill that divided Camaro fans. Chevrolet revised this later in the year due to backlash. A new LT1 trim level was offered with the same LT1 V8 as the SS, so buyers could have SS performance at a lower price point. The turbo four-cylinder became standard on the LS model, and the four-cylinder LT model could now be had with the 1LE package, which included FE3 suspension, Brembo brakes, 20-inch forged wheels, track cooling and a mechanical limited-slip rear differential. It also had the same visual changes as the V6 1LE, and was only 1.6 seconds slower around Virginia International Raceway than the V6.
2020 saw the SS grill updated for a cleaner look, and the LT1 introduced the previous year gained the ten-speed automatic from the SS and ZL1. The Shock and Steel Special Edition added vibrant yellow paint and unique wheels.
For 2021-2023 the Camaro remained largely unchanged as GM began to focus on electric vehicle production. Minor updates included new colors, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and expanded availability of the 1LE package.
The final sixth-generation year of 2024 saw the Collector’s Edition, a farewell package with Panther Black paint, unique stripes and retro-inspired badging, paying tribute to the Camaro‘s code name during its development in the 1960s.
The sixth-generation Camaro earned widespread praise for its handling, power and value, giving buyers the option of supercar performance at decidedly non-supercar prices. Motor Trend magazine called the SS 1LE the best-handling car under $40,000, and the ZL1 1LE drew comparisons to the Porsche 911 GT3 in terms of performance.
The turbo-four and V6 models were also lauded for their efficiency, accessibility and power. It did face some challenges; its polarizing 2019 refresh alienated some Camaro fans and rear visibility remained poor. The Mustang and Challenger outsold it in later years, partly due to their more spacious cabins, better rear visibility and broader appeal. The Camaro‘s focus on performance over practicality limited its modern market, and GM‘s (as well as the broader vehicle market’s) shift towards SUVs and the electric vehicles cast uncertainty over its future.
The fifth and sixth Camaro generations re-defined the name for a new era, blending nostalgia with modern performance. They revived the Camaro as a retro-styled contender and proved that it could compete with the Mustang and Challenger. The sixth generation elevated Camaro to world-class sports car status, with the ZL1 1LE and SS 1LE challenging benchmark European sports cars for a fraction of the price. They showcased Chevrolet‘s commitment to performance even as market trends shifted towards crossovers, SUVs and electric vehicles, but the ponycarâs days were numbered by the second decade of the 21st Century. There are rumors of a resurgence of the Camaro nameplate, but as an EV, so the days of throaty V8 Camaro rumble may be gone for good.âȘ
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