2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS and Turbo 1LE – Refreshed for a New Generation of Enthusiasts

By Steve & Tamami Laser

We’ve been fans of the Camaro since the first models were introduced more than 50 years ago. We’ve owned three Camaros including our editor’s first new car, a factory ordered 1979 Z28. More recently, we tested a 2014 Camaro SS 1LE with a manual gearbox a few years ago and loved it. For the 2019 model year, Chevrolet is giving the Camaro a bold new look for a new generation of enthusiasts along with a bunch of other changes.

New styling up front delivers distinctive looks for the SS (above), LS/LT and RS, including the grille, fascia, LED headlights and reshaped hood. Meanwhile, the ZL1 keeps its current look, which Chevy calls “airflow-optimized” front styling.

The SS wears a “flowtie” emblem (air passes through it) on the polished black grille, along with front air curtains, specific headlights for this model with LED signatures and also features an extractor-style hood. The 455-horse 6.2-liter V8 is managed by a new 10-speed automatic transmission with lift-foot gear hold, Tour, Sport and Track Modes, custom launch control and line lock. Of course, a 6-speed manual gearbox is still available.

At the rear, 2019 models sport new LED taillights with red lenses on LS and LT while RS, SS and ZL1 are treated to dark-tinted lenses. New rear fascias include specific diffusers for RS and SS when fitted with dual-mode exhaust. The SS and RS also ride on new 20-inch alloy wheels.

Camaro’s lineup of 1LE models expands with a new Turbo 1LE (above) joining the V6 1LE, V8 SS 1LE and ZL1 1LE. The Turbo’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, rated at 275 hp @ 5,600 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 – 4,500 rpm, is teamed with a 6-speed manual gearbox or 8-speed paddle-shift automatic. Other features include 1LE-specific FE3 suspension and SS-style 20-inch alloys.

The LT lineup, with its 355-horse 3.6-liter V6, is offered in 1LT, 2LT and 3LT trims with a choice of coupe and convertible bodystyles. The RS package (above) includes a new grille, LED headlights with signature light bar, a specific rear fascia with diffuser, and 20-inch wheels.

Inside, next-generation Infotainment 3 systems debut. Said to be the most advanced of their type from Chevrolet, they offer functionality that mimics smartphones and tablets, plus cloud connection designed to enhance personalization. Navigation, voice recognition, apps and more are available along with automatic vehicle software updates uploaded “over the air.”

Other Camaro treats include an improved standard rear-vision camera system. A Rear Camera Mirror on 2SS and ZL1 models features a wider, less obstructed field of view. Meanwhile, Forward Collision Alert is added to the list of available safety features, along with an enhanced Performance Data Recorder system.

Note: Features, specifications and launch timing for U.S. market production models is subject to change without notice.

News source and photos courtesy of Chevrolet and General Motors

Story (commentary) © 2018 CarNichiWa.com