2020 Chevy Camaro Review

　　

2020 Chevrolet Camaro Review

byMark TakahashiCorrespondent

　　Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the zzdcar YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.

　　The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro delivers everything you want from a muscle car. No matter where you land in the lineup — from the accessible four-cylinder to the midgrade V6 to the raucous V8 — the Camaro delivers stirring performance and head-turning looks. The pricing is also reasonable for what you get.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro 1LS 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$193/mo  for Camaro 1LS

　　Camaro 1LS

　　1LS 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) - $25,000 MSRP1LT 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) (Most Popular) - $25,500 MSRP1LT 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) - $31,500 MSRP2LT 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) - $27,500 MSRP2LT 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) - $33,500 MSRP3LT 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) - $31,500 MSRP3LT 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) - $37,500 MSRPLT1 2dr Coupe (6.2L 8cyl 6M) - $34,000 MSRPLT1 2dr Convertible (6.2L 8cyl 6M) - $40,000 MSRP1SS 2dr Coupe (6.2L 8cyl 6M) - $37,000 MSRP1SS 2dr Convertible (6.2L 8cyl 6M) - $43,000 MSRP2SS 2dr Coupe (6.2L 8cyl 6M) - $42,000 MSRP2SS 2dr Convertible (6.2L 8cyl 6M) - $48,000 MSRPZL1 2dr Coupe (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M) - $62,000 MSRPZL1 2dr Convertible (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M) - $68,000 MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　Some may argue that performance is everything when it comes to muscle cars, but we contend that everyday convenience also plays a part. In this arena, the Camaro falls well short. First and foremost, outward visibility is terrible, leaving a lot of guesswork in almost any driving condition. The rear seats are tiny, but that's somewhat forgivable for the class. The infotainment interface can be awkward to use, and many safety features and driver assistants are either options or not included.

　　If you're one of those shoppers who places performance above all else, the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro is an ideal pick. But for those who need more livability and convenience, we suggest checking out the Dodge Challenger and the Ford Mustang before fully committing.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.4

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

9.0/10

　　How does the Camaro drive? This Camaro is a strong performer that blends speed with precision and enjoyment in a way that previous Camaros never did. The V8 is stout, and our choice if you want the full muscle-car experience, but even the V6 and four-cylinder are punchy. Most models will out-drag an equivalent Mustang by a slight margin, and the brakes are up to the task of getting it stopped in a hurry.

　　Handling feels more precise with the smaller and lighter engines, but the V8 with its stickier tires exhibits higher limits. The manual transmissions have great positive gates, and rev-matching ensures downshifts that are as good as a pro racer's.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Camaro? The base suspension delivers a supple ride. The optional Magnetic Ride Control suspension (V8 only) is more capable over a variety of surfaces. The ride quality is very good considering the Camaro's mission. All engines are quiet cruisers, but only the V8 sounds good when driven hard.

　　The well-shaped front seatbacks offer good lateral support without being confining, but the bottom cushion felt tight to some. We also like its effectively padded door and center armrests. Unsurprisingly, the back seat is cramped even for short drives. The climate control center vents are oddly placed in front of the shift lever where they excel at freezing or heating your hand while cruising.

　　

Interior

6.5/10

　　How’s the interior? Visibility remains a big concern, and it makes the Camaro harder to operate and park in tight places than it should be. Surprisingly, the view forward and the view to the sides are even bigger problems. It's very hard to place the Camaro on tight roads (watch that rock wall!) or in tight spots (watch that shopping cart!). Shorter passengers can't see over the dashboard.

　　Interior controls are arranged in an unusual way that comes with a surmountable learning curve. The forward half of the interior feels large provided you don't opt for the sunroof. In back, people of average height won't find much space, especially if the driver is tall. In true performance coupe fashion, this back seat is for kids only.

　　

Technology

7.0/10

　　How’s the tech? The Camaro is a little hit-or-miss in this category. There's a respectable level of tech features, and we like the infotainment system's quick reactions and modern aesthetic, but the screen is oddly angled on the dash. The base touchscreen is also on the small side, which is one reason to upgrade to the larger one that comes with navigation.

　　When it comes to active safety, the Camaro feels a decade behind due to meager options and absence of collision intervention and mitigation equipment. You must upgrade to higher trims for rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring and a rear cross-traffic alert system — things it sorely needs due to its terrible rear visibility.

　　

Storage

5.0/10

　　How’s the storage? At 9.1 cubic feet, the Camaro's trunk has not only the smallest volume in the segment, but it also has a tiny opening and a high liftover height. If you ever wondered why tourists who rent Camaro convertibles put their suitcases in the back seat, this is why.

　　Interior storage is minimal. The door pockets and under-armrest bin are tiny. At least the cupholders are of a fair size and mostly out of the way during shifting. And although the back seat may be useless for adults, it does allow for extra interior storage.

　　

Fuel Economy

7.0/10

　　How’s the fuel economy? The EPA rates the V6 automatic at 22 mpg combined (19 city/29 highway), the V8 automatic at 20 mpg combined (16 city/27 highway), and the four-cylinder automatic at 25 mpg combined (22 city/31 highway) rating. These figures are similar to other muscle cars.

　　

Value

7.5/10

　　Is the Camaro a good value? The strong performance value really trumps all else here. The Camaro is the best driver's car of its type. There are some hard plastics that seem out of place in an otherwise pleasant interior. That said, the construction and assembly are strong with no creaks or squeaks.

　　From its mid-$20,000 base price to the well-equipped versions we tested (mid-$40,000s), the Camaro costs about the same as the Mustang. Features for the dollar are comparable too, be it the track packages or exterior styling upgrades, but performance is squarely in the Camaro's favor.

　　

Wildcard

9.0/10

　　The Camaro delivers a surprisingly cohesive and involving driving experience that competes at a class above. The V8's sound is compelling and the tremendous thrust addictive. Handling with the V6 and four-cylinder models is honest and lithe, but the sound from either engine is hard to like.

　　Exuberantly styled, this low-slung coupe grabs attention, which may or may not be to everyone's liking. The potent V8 gives LT1 and SS owners bragging rights, but the V6 and four-cylinder also have boisterous personalities. Sort of a cartoon superhero.

　　

Which Camaro does zzdcar recommend?

For the true muscle-car experience, we contend that it has to have a V8 engine. Thankfully, there's a new LT1 model that represents the least expensive way to get there. It's appointed similarly to the V6-powered 1LT trim but costs $3,000 less than the 1SS. To that, we suggest adding the optional Technology package to get the larger touchscreen.

　　

2020 Chevrolet Camaro models

The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro is available as a four-seat coupe or convertible, with 1LS, 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, LT1, 1SS, 2SS and ZL1 trim levels. The LS and LT models come standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder; a V6 is available. The LT1 and SS models have a V8, and the ZL1 has a supercharged V8. The 1, 2, 3 designations represent levels of equipment, but there are several optional packages and stand-alone items to help you customize your ideal Camaro.

　　The LS and LT models come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (275 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque). LT cars can be equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 (335 hp, 284 lb-ft). A six-speed manual transmission is standard across all trims, with an eight- or 10-speed automatic available as an optional extra.

　　Standard equipment on the base 1LS (coupe only) includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, a limited-slip differential (with the manual transmission), a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, cruise control, eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat with cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and adjustable driving modes. Technology equipment includes Bluetooth, OnStar connected services, 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity, a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, and a six-speaker sound system. Choose the optional eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and remote engine starting is included.

　　Additional gear on the 1LT (the base model for the convertible) includes a six-way power-adjustable passenger seat and satellite radio. An eight-speed (four-cylinder) or a 10-speed automatic transmission (V6 and V8) is available, equipping the 1LT with paddle shifters and remote engine starting.

　　The 2LT adds dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats.

　　Both the 1LT and the 2LT can be equipped with the Technology package, which adds a nine-speaker Bose audio system and an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with more connectivity features.

　　The 3LT comes with the Technology package, illuminated vanity mirrors in the visors, and a larger color information display in the gauge cluster. There's also a rear camera mirror, which displays on the rearview mirror, improving rear visibility at the cost of true depth perception. For 2020, the Convenience and Lighting package is now standard on the 3LT, adding heated and auto-dimming side mirrors, rear parking sensors, driver-seat memory functions, a head-up display, and a heated steering wheel, along with some aesthetic upgrades. This package also pads on active safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert and forward collision warning.

　　The RS package has 20-inch wheels, LED lighting elements, a special grille and a rear decklid spoiler; it is available for 1LT, 2LT and 3LT cars. Adding the RS package allows you to opt for the Heavy-Duty Cooling and Braking package, which includes an external oil cooler, a higher-capacity cooling system and four-piston front brakes.

　　The 1LE Track Performance package (coupe only) can be had with either the V6 or the 2.0-liter turbo. It equips the Camaro with the contents of the RS and Heavy-Duty Cooling and Braking packages, sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch forged alloy wheels with wider summer tires, a mechanical limited-slip differential, a rear differential cooler, a track-cooling package, a dual-mode exhaust (with the V6 only), special aerodynamic spoilers, and a satin-black hood. Inside, you'll find a suede-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and suede-wrapped shifter. The Recaro front sport seats can also be added to the 1LE package.

　　If you have the 3LT with the 1LE package, you can opt for a performance data and video recorder, which both records video and data to an SD card and offers more performance data displays on the infotainment screen. Forward collision warning is removed if you go with the recorder.

　　The new LT1 model represents an entry-level trim for the 6.2-liter V8 (455 hp, 455 lb-ft). It comes with a six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching for downshifts (a 10-speed automatic is optional), 20-inch wheels, an engine oil cooler, upgraded four-piston Brembo front brakes, a mechanical limited-slip differential, and a performance suspension. The LT1 also gets a six-way power front passenger seat. Otherwise, it is similarly equipped as the supporting 1LT trim.

　　The 1SS builds on the LT1 with upgraded engine and transmission cooling, four-piston Brembo rear brakes, a Track driving mode, and a rear spoiler. Inside, you get an upgraded 8-inch infotainment system, an improved driver information display and nicer gauges. Otherwise, it mostly mirrors the LT1's equipment.

　　The 2SS includes the 1SS equipment plus most of the features from the 3LT trim along with unique interior accents and the contents of the Convenience and Lighting package. The 2SS also receives the rear camera mirror.

　　For the 1SS and the 2SS, the SS 1LE Track Performance package adds six-piston Brembo brakes, Magnetic Ride Control suspension with adaptive dampers, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, different forged alloy wheels, upgraded performance tires, the Recaro sport seats, and everything else included with the LT's 1LE package.

　　Finally, the Camaro ZL1 has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (650 hp, 650 lb-ft), a six-speed manual transmission (a 10-speed automatic is optional), and launch control. All of the SS 1LE extras, minus the cosmetic differences, are also included. The ZL1 1LE Extreme Track Performance package adds 19-inch forged aluminum wheels with wider tires, special race-oriented suspension dampers, a carbon-fiber hood and rear spoiler, and dark-tinted taillights. With the ZL1 1LE package, a fixed rear seat that does not fold down is also standard.

　　Other available extras include a navigation system, a sunroof and a performance exhaust (all V6- and V8-powered models), along with a nearly endless catalog of aesthetic customization options.

　　

2020 Camaro Highlights

Type: ZL1CoupeConvertibleCoupe

　　Trim: 1LS1LT2LT3LTLT11SS2SSZL11LS

　　

Base MSRP	$25,000
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	23 MPG
Cost to Drive	$193/month
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	9.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles