New for 2016
The Camaro is completely redesigned for 2016. It rides on a new, smaller platform, features updated styling, and includes scores of other changes.
The Legend Continues
In 1964, Ford introduced the Mustang, and three years later General Motors answered it with the Chevrolet Camaro. Ford redesigned the Mustang for 2015, and Chevy is reigniting the old rivalry with an all-new, sixth-generation Camaro for 2016. With a sleeker exterior, redesigned interior, and upgraded powertrains, the Camaro looks ready to face off against its old rival once again.
Powertrains and Performance
Just like the rest of the car, the 2016 Camaro’s engine lineup gets overhauled. Just like with the previous generation, buyers can choose a V6 or V8, but there will also be a four-cylinder engine in the lineup for the first time in years.
The new 2.0-liter turbocharged four produces 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. As with all Camaro engines, the rear wheels are driven through either a six-speed manual transmission, or an eight-speed automatic. The new model boasts a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 4.0 seconds and 28 mpg highway, making the 2016 the most fuel-efficient Camaro ever.
Next up is a naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter V6. Chevy offered a similar engine in the outgoing generation of Camaro, but claims this version is all new. It produces 335 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque, along with cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy.
Of course, it wouldn’t be right to offer the Camaro without a muscular V8, and for 2016 Chevy is pulling out all of the stops. The Camaro now packs the 6.2-liter LT1 V8 that was introduced on the Corvette Stingray. Part of the new fifth-generation family of small-block V8s, the LT1 produces 455 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque in the Camaro SS, the sole trim level to include it.
Chevy says that makes this Camaro SS the most powerful ever. It’s also one of the smartest, thanks to cylinder deactivation and new, Camaro-specific tubular “tri-Y” exhaust manifolds. Both the V8 and V6 engines also feature resonators that pipe extra engine sound into the cabin, while 2.0-liter turbo models equipped with the Bose audio system get an electronic sound-enhancement system.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Chevy Camaro is offered as a two-door, four-seat coupe or convertible. Pricing starts at $25,700.
The base model is the 1LT, which includes standard equipment like 18-inch alloy wheels, Chevrolet MyLink Radio system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability, Bluetooth®, compass, OnStar 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, front sport bucket seats, leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, and more. The 2LT model adds voice control for the audio system, and other features.
The 1SS model includes all of the applicable standard equipment from the LT models, and adds automatic HID headlights, rear spoiler, 20-inch alloy wheels, Brembo® performance brakes, a limited-slip differential, performance suspension, and other features. The 2SS models adds aluminum interior trim, leather seats, and other more upscale equipment. Optional features include heated and ventilated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Bose nine-speaker audio system, a head-up display, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated steering wheel, and an LED ambient lighting system.
Design
For the all-new sixth-generation Camaro, Chevrolet designers opted not to change the look of the successful fifth-generation model, but rather the proportions. Everything is more sculpted and muscular than before, giving the impression of a lower and wider car without affecting interior space and other ergonomic considerations.
The cross-car grille/headlight aperture that first appeared on the original 1967 Camaro is now more aggressive than ever, and the greenhouse is sleeker and pulled further to the rear of the car, giving a greater sense of speed. The taillights are also more sculpted, and engineers even managed to integrate “air curtains” into the front fenders, helping to guide air around the wheel openings.
On the inside, the Camaro retains the somewhat retro feel of the outgoing generation, but with a greater emphasis on functionality. The gauge cluster retains the Camaro signature twin-binnacle design, but with an updated look that makes the gauges easier to read. The steering wheel looks more ergonomic than before, and there’s a space on the center-stack for the Chevy MyLink system’s touchscreen display.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Chevy Camaro SS includes anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include a rear park assist system, rear cross-traffic alert, and side blind zone alert.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro begins the sixth generation of this iconic muscle car with greater performance, technology, and efficiency. It's an exciting evolution of the Camaro legend.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at our dealership to learn more.
Image: Chevrolet
