The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro comes in a wide range of models designed to cover uses ranging from stylish open-air cruising to track-ready high-performance guise. The 2012 Camaro is available in Coupe or soft-top Convertible models. Camaro Coupes are offered in base LS, sportier LT and high-performance SS models, while Convertibles are only offered in LT or SS trim. There remain two available engines in the lineup: a 323-horsepower, 3.6L V6, and a 426-hp, 6.2L V8. On both of these engines, there's a 6-speed manual standard, or a 6-speed automatic optional--with TapShift manual controls for the automatic.
SS models of the Camaro can reach 60 mph in only around 4.5 seconds, with V6 models at around 6 seconds. Fuel economy ratings are actually quite impressive for the Camaro, considering its performance potential, with V6 models rating up to 19 mpg city, 30 highway and V8 models achieving 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
There are three different suspension packages available in the Camaro. LS and LT models get the FE2 calibration; SS Coupe models come with a new high-performance FE4 suspension, while SS Convertibles come with a somewhat softer FE3. While the layout of the suspension is performance-related--dual ball struts in front, a coil-over-shock setup in back, and stabilizer bars all around--it's just comfortable enough for most commuting. A rack-and-pinion steering system provides quick response for tight corners but is relaxed enough for highway cruising.
SS models get a competitive/sport mode for the stability control system, allowing more wheel slip for the track; also included with the SS in manual-gearbox versions is a Performance Launch Control system that helps launch the car from a start in the quickest possible way. SS Coupes, in addition to getting the new FE4 high-performance suspension, get retuned dampers, bigger stabilizer bars, and huge 20-inch wheels and performance tires. Huge 21-inch wheels are offered as a dealer-installed accessory.
Power accessories, cruise control, a tilt/telescopically adjustable steering wheel, rear-window defrost, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and a good 6-speaker sound system with steering-wheel controls are all standard. LT models upgrade to painted aluminum 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, and sport bucket seats, while SS models get the V8, upgraded suspension and Brembo high-performance brakes.
All Camaro models get the suite of OnStar roadside assistance and crash-safety notification system, including six months of the Directions and Connections services, with Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Stolen Vehicle Assistance. A host of appearance extras are available, but of interest to those who intend to use their Camaro as a daily driver is the Rear Vision Package, bringing a rearview camera system and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Strong Acceleration
Great Handling
Rip-roaring V8 Muscle-car Sounds
Daring Design Inside And Out
Decent Highway Mpg
For 2012, the Camaro and Camaro SS models will be offered in a special 45th Anniversary package, adding special 20-inch wheels, and unique trim and badging throughout.
The entire Camaro line gets a host of important changes for 2012, including a new steering wheel design, revised instrument panel, a new power-lift feature for the front passenger seat and a newly optional rearview camera system.
Performance-wise, the big news is that the V6 Camaro gets a boost of 11 horsepower, up to 323 hp for 2012. Also new is an FE4 suspension package that improves handling on the high-performance V8 SS model; and an even higher-performance Camaro ZL1 will arrive later in the model year.
The Chevrolet Camaro is GM's legendary muscle-car model, offering strong rear-wheel-drive performance in a low coupe or convertible body style. Relative to the other pony cars like the Ford Mustang or Dodge Challenger, the Camaro performs athletically, although you give up some outward visibility for the chunky, overt design. Overall, the standout of the model line remains the Camaro SS Coupe, for performance and handling approaching that of an exotic car. But Camaro Convertibles are a strong value as well and provide a different sort of fun.
