Ah, the Chevrolet Camaro, the American muscle car that makes grown men weep with joy and sends shivers down the spine of the competition. Launched in 1967, this beast has roared its way into our hearts and garages. Today, we have the pleasure of reviewing the 5th generation variant, which hit the streets in 2016. This 2020 imported used Camaro SS, with a price tag of INR 60 lakh, is what dreams (and maybe a few nightmares) are made of.
The Muscle and the Hustle
Under the hood of this bad boy lies a 6162 cc V8, General Motors L99 LS-based small-block petrol engine, churning out a jaw-dropping 400 horsepower and 555 Nm of torque. With a top speed of 250 kmph (limited, of course) and a fuel economy of 7 kmpl, it’s a perfect blend of power and impracticality. Just how we like it.
Design: Where Art Meets Aggression
Designed by the dynamic duo, SangYup Lee and Tom Peters, the Camaro was crafted to turn heads and break necks. It’s a car that attracts both men and women, a true testament to its universal appeal. The Bumblebee, as it’s affectionately known (thanks to its role in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Age of Extinction, and Dark of the Moon), is more than just a car—it’s a pop culture icon.
The Look: All About That Stance
With a length of 4.8 meters, a height of 1.4 meters, and a width of 1.9 meters, the Camaro stands like a heavyweight champion. The 1770 kg kerb weight is distributed with a front-to-rear ratio of 52.2% to 47.8%, ensuring that this rear-wheel-drive monster hugs the road like a long-lost lover.
Wheels and Brakes: Stop and Go with Style
This convertible model comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, but if you’re feeling adventurous, 18 and 19-inch options are available too. Brembo disc brakes on both ends ensure you can stop on a dime, while Pirelli P Zero ultra-high-performance tires (245/45 ZR20 103Y up front and 275/40 ZR20 106Y at the back) keep you glued to the tarmac.
Colors: The Rainbow Warrior
We’re looking at the Rally Yellow color today, but the Camaro isn’t picky—it also comes in black, blue, red, orange, grey, silver, and white. Choose your weapon.
Features: Packed Like a Tech-Pinata
The Camaro is no slouch in the features department. It boasts HID headlamps with LED halo ring DRLs, power-adjustable heated auto-dimming outside mirrors, and a dual-mode stainless steel performance exhaust system with quad outlets.
Platform and Build: Strong Foundations
Built on General Motors’ Zeta platform, the Camaro shares its DNA with the Caprice, SS, Pontiac G8, Holden Ute, Commodore, and Buick Park Avenue. Tested in the extreme conditions of Canada, Arizona, and Australia, this car laughs in the face of harsh weather.
Suspension: Smooth Operator
The four-wheel independent performance suspension with SS-specific stabilizer bars and dampers ensures a ride smoother than a jazz saxophonist on a Sunday afternoon.
Popularity and Achievements
With around 85,000 units sold annually, the Camaro has been a winner in numerous motorsport championships, including the 2014 NASCAR Nationwide Series and various touring car races. It’s a car that doesn’t just participate—it dominates.
Limited Editions: Collector’s Paradise
From the Transformers edition to the 45th Anniversary Special Edition, the Camaro has seen a plethora of limited editions. It’s a collector’s dream, each variant telling a story of speed and style.
Awards: The Trophy Cabinet
The Camaro’s trophy cabinet is bursting at the seams with awards like the 2010 World Car Design of the Year, best resale value sports car, and interior of the year. It’s been the official pace car for many racing events, proving it’s not just about looks.
Safety: Built Like a Tank
Safety features include 6 airbags, ABS, a rear-view camera, remote keyless entry, StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System, traction control, a theft-deterrent system, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, limited-slip rear differential, hill hold, and tyre sealant.
Tech: The Future is Now
With the OnStar Remote Link mobile app, you can access features like a parking meter alarm, remote start, lock/unlock, and roadside assistance. The power folding convertible top takes just 20 seconds to tuck away, offering a seamless transition between hardtop and open sky.
Comfort: Ride in Luxury
Inside, you’ll find a 288-liter boot space, an 8-speaker 245-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system, express up/down power windows, and a luxurious black/red leather upholstery. Power-adjustable heated sport bucket seats with power recline, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 7-inch diagonal color touch-screen infotainment system (supporting Bluetooth, OnStar navigation, AUX, CD, USB, FM, and radio) make every journey a pleasure.
Performance: Raw Power
The Camaro offers both a 6-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual transmission. The electric power assist steering, oil pressure, battery voltage, oil temperature, and transmission fluid temperature gauges keep you informed and in control.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Camaro is not just a car—it’s an experience. A blend of raw power, aggressive design, and luxurious comfort, it’s a beast that commands respect and delivers thrills. Whether you’re a speed demon or a collector, the Camaro is a ride you’ll cherish forever.
