What's New for 2012
For 2012, the Chevrolet Camaro saw a number of improvements. The V6 models received a boost in power and the SS coupe received a revised sport suspension. 2012 Camaro’s now offer a rearview camera and the interior received a much needed make-over. Also for the 2012 Model year Chevrolet will debut the 2012 Camaro ZL1 , resurrecting a the supercharged V8 racing legend.
ZL1
I know that as soon as Camaro lovers read the words “new 2012 Camaro ZL1”, they were going to want to go straight to more information, and so were giving it to you first!
The new 2012 Camaro ZL1 comes with a version of the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that can be seen in the Corvette ZR1. Under the hood of the Camaro it pushes 570 horsepower, thus becoming the fastest Camaro ever.
The ZL1 comes standard equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, but for those of you that don’t drive stick, it has the option for a six-speed automatic transmission. The ZL1 also comes with adaptive suspension dampers, a dual-mode exhaust system, massive performance tires with Brembo brakes and a sleeker and sportier steering wheel.
Other Models
Chevrolet did not leave the other models in the cold this year, giving the other trims many notable updates for 2012 as well.
Among the updated are a more powerful V6 model, a nicer interior cabin that received a revised instrument panel and a new steering wheel and the afore mentioned available rearview camera. The SS couple model received a revised suspension that gives it a more athletic handling.
Every model of Camaro gets last year's "RS" style taillights. These bad boys have darker lenses with chrome trim, which should make Camaro fans happy. All models will also include a rear spoiler as standard and a special 45th Anniversary package to commemorate the special occasion.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Optional add ons
The 2012 Chevy Camaro is a four-seat vehicle that is available as a coupe or convertible. The 2012 Camaro is available in the V6-powered 1LS and 2LS (available for coupes only), 1LT and 2LT trim levels, as well as the V8-powered 1SS and 2SS trim levels.
The 1LS comes standard equipped with black 18-inch steel wheels. It also comes equipped with automatic headlights, keyless entry, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, OnStar and a six-speaker sound system that brings a CD player, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The 2LS is basically the same thing as the 1LS, but it includes an automatic transmission as opposed to a manual.
The 1LT trim is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and eight-way power seats (compared to six-way that come on the 1LS and 2LS models). The 1LT also features the Convenience and Connectivity which gives it remote ignition (only for automatic transmissions), a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and an I-pod interface.
The 2LT trim is equipped with the same items as the 1LT but also includes 19-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors and front seats, auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors, rear park assist, a rearview camera (with a rearview mirror display), and a Boston Acoustics sound system that boast 9 speakers.
The 1SS trim is very similar to the 1LT but adds a V8 engine, 20-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. The 2SS is essentially the love child of the 1SS trim and the 2LT, featuring many of the 1SS performance features and the luxury features of the 2LT.
The RS package is available on all trims except for the LS. This package adds 20-inch wheels and xenon headlights to your Camaro.
The 45th Anniversary package we mentioned earlier is available on the 2LT and 2SS trims. It includes Carbon Flash paint with red/charcoal stripes, special 20-inch wheels, and requisite badges and embroidered logos to add a little flash.
Interior
The interior of the 2012 Camaro boasts some retro touches like square gauge hoods and the available four-pack of auxiliary gauges with a modern dash design. It offers a new steering wheel that's more ergonomic and is way more comfortable to grip than in previous in years.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro LS and LT come received an updated engine this year and now boast a 3.6-liter V6 that gives it a mean 323 hp and 278 pound-feet of torque. The EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2012 model is 19 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined with the automatic (the manual gets 2 fewer mpg across the board).
For the 2012 model year the SS received a 6.2-liter V8 that produces an insane 426 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque with the six-speed manual transmission it comes with and 400 hp and 410 lb-ft with the optional six-speed automatic transmission. The manual SS is able to go from 0-60 mph in 5 seconds. It has a EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg with the manual transmission. The automatic is slightly less fuel-efficient at 15/24/18, thanks to less engine power as well as cylinder-deactivation technology.
Safety features
Every trim of the 2012 Chevy Camaro is equipped with antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, stability control and full-length side curtain airbags. Every model is also equipped with OnStar which is a great feature to have.
Verdict
The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro made us remember just how much we love Camaro and why. Both the V6 and V8 models offer a combination of speed, torque and class that make it a must have for racing fans. The Camaro has a cornering grip, communicative steering and an improved suspension that made it easier to handle around corners and tight turns than ever before.
Thank you Camaro, you just made us smile again :o).
Check out Jerry’s Chevrolet for our incredible selection of Camaro’s at 1940 E. Joppa Rd Baltimore, MD 21234 or follow us on twitter @jerryschevybalt or like us on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jerryschevrolet.
