2
0
Sporty/performance car; Built in Canada
  • 2-door convertible
  • 2-door coupe
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $9,700 – $47,900*


2010 Chevrolet Camaro front


2010 Chevrolet Camaro rear


2010 Chevrolet Camaro interior


2010 Chevrolet Camaro


2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Pros:
  • Acceleration
  • Ride (V6 w/19-inch wheels)
  • Steering/handling
Cons:
  • Cargo room
  • Interior materials
  • Rear-seat room

Camaro suffers from the usual sporty car vices of poor visibility and a claustrophobic interior. It balances those defects with strong power and generally civilized road manners. In fact, the impressively tight feel of the convertible might make it the leader among sporty soft tops. V6 versions are surprisingly refined, while the V8 successfully draws upon the spirit of its late-1960s ancestor. Though not significantly better than any of its rivals (retro-flavored or otherwise), Camaros are still worth considering.

Overview

Introduced for 2010, Chevrolet’s Camaro marked the return of this iconic “pony car.” The last earlier-generation Camaro disappeared after the 2002 model year. The modern-day Camaro bowed as a two-door coupe. A two-door convertible version joined it in early calendar 2011. Surprisingly, the 2010 Camaro shared some of its basic design with the soon-discontinued Pontiac G8 large sedan. Body styling was inspired by the 1969 Camaro.

Five trim levels were offered: LS, 1LT, 2LT, 1SS, and 2SS. Two engines were available: a V6 and a V8. Available in LS and LT models, mating with either a manual or automatic transmission, the V6 was a 3.6-liter unit that produced 304 horsepower in 2010 and 312 thereafter. SS Camaros with a manual transmission got a 426-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. Automatic-equipped SS models also got a 6.2-liter V8, but that one made 400 horsepower and featured GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. A high-performance ZL1 with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 580 horsepower was added for 2012.

Standard safety features included antilock braking, traction control, an antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. An RS Package for LT and SS models included bi-xenon headlights and specific trim. LT versions with that package got 20-inch wheels. All Camaros were available with 21-inch wheels. Rear-obstacle detection was standard on the 2LT and 2SS and optional on the 1LT. Other available features included a wireless cell-phone link, USB port, satellite radio, and remote engine start. An optional Transformers Special Edition package, inspired by the movie Transformers, included specific trim. Like other sporty/performance cars, Camaro emphasized affordable performance. Rivals included the Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, and Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

Yearly Updates

2011 Camaro
The Camaro got more V6 power and a new convertible body style with an acoustical headliner and enhanced body structure. LS, 1LT, 2LT, 1SS, and 2SS trim levels returned, though the convertible was not offered as an LS. Available in LS and LT Camaros, the 3.6-liter V6 now produced 312 horsepower–an increase of eight. The SS V8 saw no major changes. A head-up instrument display became standard for 2LT and 2SS packages. During 2011, Chevrolet announced a limited-production Camaro ZL1, commemorating an early model with that designation and packing a supercharged 550-hp V8, but it will be a 2012 model.
2012 Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro received some rather significant changes for 2012. Added to the lineup was the high-performance ZL1 with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 580 horsepower. Meanwhile, the base V6 gained 11 horsepower to 323, a rearview camera was newly available, and a specially trimmed 45th Anniversary model was offered.
2013 Camaro
Chevrolet continued to add features and models to the Camaro lineup. A convertible version of the ultra-high-performance ZL1 came online for 2013. The sporty SS was available with a new “1LE” performance package, which included revised transmission gearing, a performance suspension with strut brace, and a few engine bits from the ZL1.
Most models newly included Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system.
2014 Camaro
Chevrolet’s “pony car” got a facelift and a racetrack-ready Z/28 high-performance model for 2014.
2015 Camaro
After receiving a facelift and a racetrack-ready Z/28 high-performance model for 2014, Chevrolet’s “pony car” saw no changes of note for 2015. A redesigned Camaro arrived for 2016.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive

LS and LT models got a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 304-323 horsepower (depending on year), with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Camaro SS models held a 6.2-liter V8, generating 426 horsepower with six-speed manual shift or 400 horsepower with the six-speed automatic. The ZL1 introduced for 2012 had a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 580 horsepower, and was available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Z/28 introduced in 2014 had a 7.0-liter V8 developing 505 horsepower and was only available with a 6-speed manual transmission.

dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.6/217
Engine HP 304-323
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 273-278
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
6-speed automatic		 17/29
18/29		 22.0
ohv V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.2/376
Engine HP 400
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 410
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic 16/25
ohv V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.2/376
Engine HP 426
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 420
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual 16/24
Supercharged ohv V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.2/376
Engine HP 505
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 481
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
6-speed automatic		 14/19
12/18		 14.7
ohv V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 7.0/427
Engine HP 580
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 500
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual 13/19

Road Test

V6 Camaros won’t pin you to your seat, but they provide good “scoot” in pretty much any situation. The manual transmission shifts smoothly, though shift action is not as precise as in some sporty-car rivals. Chevrolet’s automatic transmission is occasionally slow to downshift in passing and merging maneuvers. The included steering-wheel paddles help, but a manual override on the console shift lever would have been welcome. V8 versions with the manual transmission feel every bit as robust as their 426-hp rating would suggest. Plenty of power is on tap, and passing maneuvers are possible with the transmission in as high as fifth gear. Clutch engagement takes some getting used to, and the shifter’s throws are a bit on the long side. An optional factory-installed short-throw shifter would likely take care of the latter issue. V8s with automatic transmission are also muscular, yielding quick yet smooth shifts. Even more muscular is the ZL1. Its 580-horsepower supercharged V8 provides ferocious acceleration, yet is perfectly tractable around town.

In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission V6 averaged 19.0 mpg in mostly city driving. V6 coupes with the automatic transmission averaged 20.9 to 23.0 mpg. An automatic-transmission SS averaged 20.6 mpg in mostly highway driving. A ZL1 returned just 14.7 mpg. V6 Camaros use regular-grade gas. Chevrolet recommends premium for the SS’s V8 and requires it for the ZL1.

Ride quality in LT models ranks as supple for the class, regardless of wheel size. A solid body structure and astute suspension tuning enhance the impression of overall comfort. That body structure is what saves the SS, which has 20-inch wheels and a sport suspension, from being overly harsh. Potholes and pavement cracks that are generally well smothered in the LT register with a jolt in the SS. Convertibles have a number of chassis and body enhancements that keep them feeling as free from cowl shake and steering-wheel vibration as coupes. Perhaps thanks to its Magnetic Ride Control suspension system, the ZL1 isn’t much worse over bumps than an SS.

Any Camaro corners with good grip and minimal body lean. They show better composure than a Dodge Challenger, though Camaros are a bit too big to be as agile as a Ford Mustang, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, or Nissan 370Z. SS and ZL1 models deliver sharp moves, though the LT is no slouch. Braking control is very good on the LT, but ZL1 and SS performance brakes have the most bite and best pedal feel.

Quite refined, the V6 emits a rich, almost European-sounding engine note. It’s a surprisingly quiet cruiser with minimal tire and wind noise. The SS’s V8 produces the expected muscle-car snort at open throttle, but that sound mostly fades into the background on the highway. SS performance treads generate more ruckus on any pavement, though noise is never loud enough to be intrusive. Even at highway speeds, it’s possible to carry on a conversation in a top-down convertible. By contrast, the ZL1’s engine is always heard, even under cruise conditions, and it has a burbling idle and roaring exhaust note under throttle.

The retro-flavored instrument and control layout pays homage to 1967-69 Camaros, with mixed results. Gauges are clearly marked, but the upper rim of the steering wheel can partially block the view for some drivers. The 2LT and 2SS models’ auxiliary four-gauge instrument cluster, at the leading edge of the console, is more for nostalgic looks than function. Some climate-control buttons are small, but all functions are readily apparent. The unique audio deck deviates from the GM norm–a step backward, in our view. The standard auxiliary audio-input jack and available USB port are inconveniently located far back inside the center console, requiring an awkward reach for either driver or passenger. Assembly quality and overall fit and finish are good, but materials disappoint, with the dashboard constructed of an expanse of budget-grade plastic. The 2LT and 2SS models’ leather upholstery and optional interior trim package bring a slightly richer ambiance. A plastic tonneau cover that folds in segments has been standard only with 2LT and 2SS convertibles; it is an option for 1LT/1SS open cars.

Standard cloth seats feel a bit cheap and aren’t quite as supportive as the leather buckets in a 2LT and 2SS. Front legroom is fine, but headroom is in very short supply, particularly with the optional sunroof. A high beltline imparts even more of a closed-in feeling. In coupes, visibility directly aft is good, but the over-left-shoulder view suffers from large blind spots that require multiple checks before attempting lane changes. With the top up, convertibles have fractionally more headroom than coupes. Convertibles have a smaller rear window than coupes, but they lack the coupe’s fixed side pillar, so the view through side windows is a bit more open.

Rear seats provide room for jackets and small parcels, but that’s about it. Small children might have sufficient legroom, but the shape and slope of the roof line severely restrict headroom.

Chevrolet claims 11.3 cubic feet of trunk space for coupes, but the hold is tough to access due to a high liftover and small opening. Convertibles are rated at 10.2 cubic feet with the top up, but volume falls to 7.85 with the roof lowered. Interior storage is limited to an average-size glovebox and fairly small center bin, inconveniently located at the back of the console. All but the 2LT and 2SS have a shallow tray at the leading edge of the console.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2011 Chevrolet Camaro LT coupe w/manual

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 7
70%
Fuel Economy - 6
60%
Ride Quality - 6
60%
Steering/Handling - 7
70%
Quietness - 6
60%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 5
50%
Room/Comfort Front - 4
40%
Room/Comfort Rear - 2
20%
Cargo Room - 3
30%

Other

Value - 6
60%

Total: 52

Specifications

2-door convertible
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.3 190.4 75.5 54.7 3769
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
10.2 19.0 4
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
37.8 35.7 42.4 30.0
2-door coupe
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.3 190.4 75.5 54.2 3750
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
11.3 19.0 4
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
37.4 35.3 42.4 29.9
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2010 Camaro 2-door coupe

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 4
80%
Front Passenger Injury - 4
80%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Clutch
Description: Soft clutch pedal and hard shifting caused by loose clutch pressure plate bolts. (2010)
Engine stalling
Description: Faulty rod or main bearings may result in seized engine. (2013)
Engine stalling
Description: Engine can stall after making a turn. (2013-15)
Vehicle noise
Description: A buzzing sound (dial tone like) may be heard on the receiving end of a call when using a Bluetooth (except with 3G and 4G phones) unless the hands-free microphone has been replaced. (2010-11)
Windows
Description: Power windows may be misaligned and move slowly or not at all. (2010-14)
None
Description: Engine may not start because of exhaust or intake valve leakage. (2010-14)
Transmission problems
Description: Transmission slippage or no forward/reverse movement. (2010)
Brake lights
Description: Brake lights may stay on after vehicle is turned off and drain battery. (2014)
Check-engine light
Description: Engine may run at reduced power and the check engine light may come on, especially when driving in rain or after a carwash, unless the instrument panel wiring harness connector has been sealed. (2005-11)
Accessory belt
Description: Squealing noise from engine compartment due to warm accessory drive belt, but idler pulley often misdiagnosed as wobbling on 6.2L engine. (2010-11)
Parking brake
Description: Parking brake might not hold (2013-15)

Recall History

2010 w/ V8 engine
Description: Positive battery cable on some vehicles may contact starter motor housing and cause wear on cable insulation. If insulation wears through, it could create a short circuit, resulting in no-start condition or stalling without the ability to restart, or possibly an engine-compartment fire.
2010-14 Camaro
Description: The driver’s knee might knock the ignition key from the Run position to Off resulting in a loss of engine power along with the loss of braking- and steering-power assist.
2011-12 Camaro
Description: The bolt that secures the front seat height adjuster may fall out resulting the seat unexpectedly dropping.
2012 Camaro
Description: Driver’s front airbag may not deploy.
2013-14 Camaro
Description: Airbag warning label may detach from sunvisor.
2014 Camaro
Description: Improperly tightened fasteners in the steering and front suspension could result in loss of steering.
2015 Camaro
Description: Front side airbag’s inflator may rupture during deployment. Metal fragments could injure passengers and the side airbag may not inflate properly.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on August 2, 2016.
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