Item: 2017 Chevrolet Camaro
Author: James Flammang

Overview

Almost half a century after the first Camaro appeared, Chevrolet gave its long-running muscle car and Mustang competitor a total redesign. Launched as a 2016 model, the latest iteration of the stylishly sporty four-seat coupe and convertible demonstrates that traditional macho body lines, coupled with the potential for raw power, haven’t gone out of fashion. When it comes to delivering sheer driving excitement for the money, the contemporary Camaro exudes just as much appeal as the 1967 original.

What's New for 2017

Fully redesigned—indeed transformed—as a 2016 model, the Camaro adds a trio of new choices for 2017: a 50th Anniversary Edition, a higher-performance 1LE option, and a return of the ZL1 coupe—now hotter than ever. All 2017 Camaros get a “FIFTY” badge on the steering wheel.

Choosing Your Chevrolet Camaro

In its current form, the Camaro is a bit smaller and some 200 pounds lighter than its predecessor, wearing a more exotic-looking body. Base LT engine is a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which whips up a robust 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. That’s sufficient to make the entry-level Camaro appropriately quick, while delivering at least an estimated 30 mpg on the highway.

Optional is a 3.6-liter V6 that cranks out 335 horsepower and 284 pound-feet. Tucked into SS models is Chevrolet’s mighty 6.2-liter V8, which raises the ante to 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters may be substituted. Both the V6 and V8 feature cylinder-deactivation technology for enhanced fuel-efficiency.

This year’s 50th Anniversary Package will be offered on 2LT and 2SS models. Painted Nightfall Gray metallic, they get a distinct satin chrome-accented grille and unique 20-inch wheels. Also included are unique black leather upholstery with suede inserts and orange contrast stitching, plus distinctive touches in the steering wheel and instrument panel. Front brake calipers are orange, and an RS Appearance Package is included.

The new 1LE Performance Package is offered on LT and 1SS models with the V6 or V8 and manual shift. On the LT, the package includes “track-tested” SS components, an FE3 suspension, Brembo brakes, and heavy-duty cooling. The SS version includes an electronic limited-slip differential, specific chassis tuning that permits cornering past 1g, and Magnetic Ride Control.

All-out Camaro enthusiasts are sure to yearn for the revived ZL1 coupe, which gets a new supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that generates a whopping 640 horsepower (estimated) and 640 pound-feet of torque. Either a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission may be installed. Visually, the ZL1 might best be described as meaner than ever, starting with a new hood that contains a heat extractor and carbon-fiber insert. Despite its phenomenal track-based prowess in acceleration, handling and braking, the ZL1 is suitable for everyday driving

Chevrolet Camaro — 1LT
Starting at $27,300 (including destination charge) with the turbo four and manual shift, the base Camaro can be equipped with a V6 engine. Standard are Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment with a 7-inch touchscreen, power front seats, a rearview camera, keyless access and ignition, and leather trim for the flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob. Manual-equipped models also get a limited-slip rear differential. For a sportier appearance, the RS package tacks on a revised grille, high-intensity-discharge headlights, LED taillights, a rear spoiler, and 20-inch wheels (replacing standard 18s).
The 1LT convertible goes for $34,300. An automatic transmission adds $1,495 to the price.

ZL1
If that 640-horsepower figure sounds irresistible, note that the track-ready ZL1 also includes a big front splitter, wider front fenders, and a wing-style spoiler. Inside are Recaro front seats, and suede-covered flat-bottom steering wheel. An available performance data recorder can keep personal score during racetrack and dragstrip outings.

CarsDirect Tip

All models are well-equipped, and an LT will fully satisfy most drivers’ needs—unless V8 power is non-negotiable. If the potential for tire-smoking behavior is on your personal agenda, there's no substitute for the SS. Naturally, the reborn ZL1 isn’t a Camaro for everyone, even if you’re a long-time fan of Chevrolet’s ornery four-seater.

Get your price on a Chevrolet Camaro »

James Flammang

Contributing Editor - July 27, 2016

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Expert Review

Expert Rating

Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

James Flammang

Contributing Editor - January 26, 2017

Chevrolet redesigned its iconic arch-rival to the Ford Mustang, the Camaro, a year ago. And for 2017, the Camaro's 50th birthday, Chevy is reviving the high-performance ZL1 – and dosing it with 650 horsepower – so it can sit atop the lineup of sporty, stylish coupes and convertibles, which continue to follow the “classic” muscle-car recipe.

Pricing and Equipment

Starting at $26,900 (destination charge included) for an LS coupe, the price zooms to $37,900 and beyond for an SS coupe, and a whopping $62,135 for the ultra-hot ZL1. LS and LT convertibles cost $6,000 more than coupes.

In the LS and LT, a standard turbocharged four develops 275 horsepower. The optional 3.6-liter V6 makes 335 horsepower.

With its Corvette-sourced 6.2-liter V8 generating 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, the SS hits 60 mph in a mere four seconds. Standard 1SS equipment includes:

Six-speed manual transmission (eight-speed automatic optional)
Heated/ventilated leather-appointed power seats
Four-position Drive Mode Selector
20-inch aluminum wheels with summer-only performance tires
Brembo brakes
HID headlights with LED accents

For an additional $5,000, the 2SS version adds such extras as:

Head-up display
Bose premium audio
Dual-zone automatic climate control

A 50th Anniversary Edition package is also available.

Performance Pros

Expect startling performance from the SS coupe, in particular. Even the turbo-four model is impressively quick with either the manual or automatic transmission, though lacking in viscerally energizing sounds to complement its driving force.
Precise steering talents help make the fifth-generation Camaro more than a mere muscle-car. A sophisticated suspension ensures exceptional handling, providing new levels of performance. Adding the new 1LE handling package can make a superior road machine even better.
The eight-speed automatic transmission responds smartly and yields smooth shifts. In addition to its lusty 650-horsepower supercharged V8, the new ZL1 gets a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Performance Cons

As with many performance cars, ride comfort can be an issue, especially if the Camaro wears bigger tires.
Except for the turbo four in LS models, EPA-estimated at 25 miles per gallon combined, fuel economy is not a plus. Thirstiest of the lot is the ZL1, at 16 mpg combined.

Interior Pros

Adult-size cockpit up front – but definitely not in the back.
Supportive, well-shaped front seats with ample head room in each trim level, amenable to taller drivers.

Interior Cons

In addition to minimal rear-seat room, the shrunken trunk is narrow and shallow.
Current Camaro has a bit less total interior space than its predecessor.

The Most Pleasant Surprise

Available magnetic dampers induce a sense of calm, letting that Camaro dash across pavement trouble spots with surprisingly little harshness.

The Least Pleasant Surprise

Seriously scant back-seat space isn’t even for children. It’s a prime example of placing style ahead of function. Convertibles are even tighter back there.

The Bottom Line

To plenty of enthusiasts, the Camaro’s body conveys a look of menacing intimidation – though we’d rather focus on its retro-derived beauty. All versions are well equipped, but considering what you get for $40,000 or so, an SS qualifies as exceptional in value. Just don’t expect space for four in any Camaro.

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Specs & Features

Highlights

Overall Crash Safety Rating

Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque

Standard: 2.0L I-4 / 275 HP / 295 ft.lbs.

Available: 3.6L V-6 / 335 HP / 284 ft.lbs.

Transmission

6-spd man w/OD

Drive Type

Rear-wheel

Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined

20 / 30 / 25 Mpg

Passenger Capacity

Bumper to Bumper Warranty

36 Months / 36,000 Miles

Mechanical Specs

Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque	Standard: 2.0L I-4 / 275 HP / 295 ft.lbs. Available: 3.6L V-6 / 335 HP / 284 ft.lbs.
Drive Type	Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined	20 / 30 / 25 Mpg
Brakes	4-wheel Disc / Brembo 4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension	Strut
Rear Suspension	Independent Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Fuel Tank	19.0 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type	Premium Unleaded / Regular Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank	$73

Dimensions & Capabilities

Maximum Cargo Volume	9.1 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
Exterior Length	188.3 "
Exterior Width	74.7 "
Exterior Height	53.1 "
Front Headroom	38.5 "
Rear Headroom
Front Legroom	43.9 "
Rear Legroom
Front Shoulder Room
Rear Shoulder Room
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight	3,354 Lbs. / 3,396 Lbs.
Wheel Base	111 "
Turning Radius

Exterior Features

Door Count	2 Doors
Wheels	18.0 " Silver Aluminum / 20.0 " Machined W/painted Accents Aluminum / 20.0 " Silver Aluminum / 20.0 " Black Forged Aluminum / 20.0 " Polished Forged Aluminum / 20.0 " Black Aluminum
Paint	Clearcoat Monotone / Clearcoat Monotone With Badging / Clearcoat Monotone With Stripe / Tri-coat Monotone / Metallic Monotone
Exterior Mirrors	Dual Power Remote W/tilt Down
Bumpers	Body-colored / Front Body-colored
Grille Moldings	Black / With Metal-look Bar / Black W/chrome Accents
Rear Spoiler	Wing / Lip
Exhaust	Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish / Dual Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish

Interior Features

Seating

Passenger Capacity	4
Seat Trim	Cloth / Simulated Suede/leather
Front Seat Type	Sport Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls	(8-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls	(6-way Power)
Front Armrests	(8-way Power)
Rear Armrests
Rear Seats	Full Bench

Radio & Infotainment

Radio	Chevrolet Mylink Siriusxm Am/fm/satellite, Clock, Seek-scan / Chevrolet Mylink Siriusxm Am/fm/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers	6 / 9 Bose
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity

Convenience Features

Steering Wheel Type	Telescopic Tilt / Telescopic Tilt Style
Climate Control	Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control	With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof	Express Open
Rearview Mirror	Day-night
One Touch Open Window	Driver And Passenger
Tinted Windows	Light
Vanity Mirrors
Remote Keyless Entry	Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets	1

Safety Features

Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags	Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags	Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag	Driver And Passenger
Passenger Side Impact Airbag	Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners	Front
Anti-Lock Brakes	4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems	Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable	Pass-key Iii

Warranty

Bumper To Bumper Months Miles	36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Major Components Months	60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months	24 Months / 24,000 Miles
Roadside Assistance Months	60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation	72 Months / 100,000 Miles
Accessories Months

Used 2017 Chevrolet Camaro for Sale

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