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2011 Chevrolet Camaro Review
(4 Stars) A very compelling sports coupe
Reviewed by Internet Auto Guide
After seven years off the market, the Chevrolet Camaro took advantage of pent-up demand to become the bestseller in its exclusive segment, far outselling Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger and Hyundai Genesis coupe. Much of Camaro's popularity has to do with its styling, which is a modern interpretation of the first-generation, 1969 model.
Based on General Motors' Zeta rear-wheel-drive platform, the Camaro feels not so much like that late-'60s "pony car" as a big musclecar. While the '11 Camaro is about the same length as a '69, it's on a long, 112.3-inch wheelbase and weighs a hefty 3700 to 3900 pounds, depending on equipment.
The enthusiasts' version is the 426-horsepower small block-powered SS (400 horsepower with the automatic transmission). Camaro has shaken up the segment, though, with its base model's 3.6-liter V-6, a powerful and fuel-efficient engine that pushed Ford into upgrading its Mustang powerplant lineup. Chevy will add a Camaro convertible early in '11, and a lightweight Z/28 hi-performance model later in the year. The musclecar wars have just begun. ... Expand full summary 
The Range
- Bodystyle: 2-door coupe.
- Engines: 3.6L V-6, 6.2L V-8.
- Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic.
- Models: LS, LT, 2LT, SS, 2SS
What's New
Trumping Mustang's 305-horsepower V-6, the rating for Camaro's direct injection V-6 is up 8, to 312 horsepower. All models are available with Synergy Green Metallic paint for a limited time, and Synergy Green interior panels are available on 2LT and 2SS. Head-up display becomes standard on 2LT and 2SS. All models get six months of free OnStar Directions and Connections.
Exterior
A long-hood, short-deck and radical tumblehome evoke Chevy's design heyday. Its 67-degree windshield rake contributes to a big on the outside, small on the inside feel. The RS package is available on LT and SS.
Interior
The retro/heritage design extends to the four-passenger interior, with deep, recessed gauges in square housings, three-spoke wheel and optional console-mounted gauge package, standard on 2LT and 2SS.
Performance & Handling
Camaro SS is more powerful than its rivals, although excessive weight hampers performance. It's a responsive performer but with a heavy feel. Motor Trend recorded a 13.1-second quarter-mile at 110.8 mph. Its 25.2 seconds at 0.73g average on the MT Figure-8 is equally impressive. Choose the smooth V-6 version and you'll get decent performance and not give up much handling.
Safety
Four front-seat airbags, side curtains front and rear, door interlock pins, StabiliTrak dynamic stability control and four-wheel disc brakes with hydraulic brake assist are standard on all models. SS models get Brembo four-piston brake calipers.
EPA Fuel Economy
- LS, LT, 2LT V-6, 6-speed manual: 17/29
- LS, LT, 2LT V-6, 6-speed automatic: 18/29
- SS, 2SS V-8, 6-speed manual: 16/24
- SS, 2SS V-8, 6-speed automatic: 16/25
You'll Like
- Straight-line performance
- Cornering grip
- Styling
- Machismo
- Value
You Won't Like
- Interior space
- Weighty feel
- Complicated option sheet
Sum Up
A very compelling sports coupe
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