A new member joins the Camaro family this year: the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Equipped with a 6.2-liter V-8 that generates 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft feet of torque, the ZL1 is the most powerful Camaro ever offered from the factory. It joins the lineup of V-6 and V-8 powered sports coupes as a direct challenge to the high-horsepower versions of the Dodge and Ford competitors, the Challenger SRT8 and Mustang Cobra.
Aside from the addition of the ZL1, the Camaro lineup has few changes for the 2012 model year. Still early in its model cycle, the Camaro's upgrades this year mostly involve electronic updates and creature comforts. Chevy celebrates its 45th anniversary with a special 45th Anniversary appearance package for the 2012 Camaro.
The Range
Body styles: coupe, convertible
Engines: 3.6-liter, V-6; 6.2-liter V-8; supercharged 6.2-liter V-8
Transmissions: six-speed automatic, six-speed manual
Models: Chevrolet Camaro LS, Chevrolet Camaro LT, Chevrolet Camaro SS, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
What's New
General Motors expands the Chevrolet Camaro lineup with the ZL1 model for those clamoring (and willing to pay) for a more powerful model. A 45th Anniversary appearance package is also offered as well. Other changes include a standard real spoiler on the 2012 Chevy Camaro; redesigned instrument cluster; Bluetooth availability; rearview camera system; and six-way powered passenger seat.
Exterior
In both its coupe and convertible body styles, the retro-inspired 2012 Chevrolet Camaro turns heads and incites discussion every time it passes by. Chevrolet, realizing it is best not to mess with a winning formula, just makes the rear spoiler standard on the 2012 Camaro.
Interior
Blindspots are prominent in the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro due to its low, squared-off roofline and high side sills. The trunk opening also suffers due to the styling. Backseat passenger seating continues to be tight. General Motors revamps the interior with a more modern steering wheel and redesigned instrument cluster while refreshing certain plastic inserts.
Performance & Handling
We found even the base 2012 Chevrolet Camaro and its 3.6-liter V-6 plenty fast, offering enough power to pass large vehicles almost effortlessly, the sensation increasing with the 6.2-liter V-8. While we haven't driven the ZL1 just yet, we expect it to offer blistering power. The 2012 Chevy Camaro is also a capable cruiser, the suspension thunking over road imperfections with minimal engine, road, and wind noise. The Camaro's large size and blindspots does affect outward visibility, especially in tight parking spots.
Safety
The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro comes standard with dual-stage frontal, side-impact, and head-curtain side airbags for a total of six. Also standard are antilock disc brakes and stability control.
EPA Fuel Economy
Chevrolet Camaro V-6: 17-19 mpg city/27-29 mpg highway
Chevrolet Camaro SS: 15-16 mpg/24 mpg highway
Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: Not available
You'll Like
- Looks
- Powerful engine
- Fuel economy
You Won't Like
- Blindspots
- Polarizing interior design
Sum Up
Hot sports car gets even hotter new model
If You Like This Vehicle
- Dodge Challenger
- Ford Mustang
- Hyundai Genesis coupe