2020 Chevrolet Camaro Pros vs Cons
When it comes to cars, James Murdock has the real-world experience to back it up. With an economics degree and over 20 years running the family dealership, he's managed it all - from sales to service and marketing. His role is to provide his expert opinion on vehicle performance and value. He meticulously fact checks all features and data with vehicle manufacturers to ensure the upmost accuracy.
The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro is a legitimate sports car. It’s a great alternative to the pricier Chevrolet Corvette. Drivers love the Camaro’s strong acceleration and slick handling. There’s also a lot of modern technology inside of the latest model. Let’s see what’s good and bad about the new Camaro.
What’s New for 2020?
An all-new LT1 trim hits the lineup, which allows buyers to experience the performance of a V8 engine for a less expensive price. This year, even the V6 engine can be paired to a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Chevy has also updated the Camaro SS’ front fascia. When checking out the Camaro’s list of paint options, you’ll notice a couple of new colors.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro – The Pros
1. Standard Turbo Four-Cylinder Engine Saves Gas
If you’re looking to save gas, consider keeping the Camaro’s standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine. According to the EPA, trims equipped with an automatic transmission can return up to 31 mpg. Performance is also very strong for such a small engine. Chevy tunes it to develop a pleasing 275 ponies and 295 pound-feet of torque. This is enough power to ensure a brisk 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds. Remember, premium gasoline is recommended.
2. Very Potent V8 Engine
While a strong V6 engine is available for the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro, true muscle car fans will want the V8 engine. It’s rated to push out an entertaining 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. The V8-powered Camaro is by far one of the quickest production cars you can buy for less than $40,000. Expect this beast to hit 60 mph in a blistering 4.1 seconds. Aside from this car’s snappy acceleration, you’ll also enjoy its powerful exhaust note.
3. Handles Better Than Some High-End Performance Cars
Although the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro may not be as refined as a German sports car, it does not make many sacrifices in the handling department. The Camaro’s outstanding body control enables it to carve the road like a sharp tool. A precise steering system makes this coupe feel lighter than its actual weight. Even the base model feels remarkably stable around corners. Luckily, this athletic coupe still manages to deliver a supple ride on the highway.
4. Plenty of Performance Upgrades Are Available
Even in its standard form, the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro is a fun car to drive. Nevertheless, Chevy offers the Camaro with plenty of high-performance upgrades. If you’re a serious driving enthusiast, opt for the 1LE Track Performance Package. A wider set of 20-inch performance tires and stiffer suspension seek to further enhance the coupe’s handling. Meanwhile, an upgraded cooling system helps prevent overheating. You’ll also benefit from heavy-duty brakes, which are made to handle track conditions.
5. Intimidating Exterior Styling Causes Onlookers to Take Notice
The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro definitely has an intimidating road presence. Its aggressive stance and muscular hood forces onlookers to take notice. A new front-end appearance has elevated the Camaro SS’ curb appeal. Even the lower trim levels offer an exciting RS appearance package. It decks out the Camaro with a special grille, a sleek trunk spoiler, and larger 20-inch alloy wheels. You also have access to bold paint colors like Rally Green Metallic and Shock.
6. A Great List of Standard Features Adds Value
Even if you settle for the base Camaro 1LS, you will not be missing out on much. Very few performance cars come standard with as much equipment. Chevy’s latest Infotainment 3 interface is a big highlight. It features a 7.0-inch touchscreen with voice controls and full smartphone support. You’ll also appreciate the Camaro’s 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, which gives you all-day access to the internet. Bluetooth and push-button ignition come standard as well.
7. OnStar Communications System Gives You Extra Peace of Mind
Every new 2020 Chevrolet Camaro features an award-winning OnStar communications system. Whether you’re driving home from the workplace or taking a weekend road trip, this system will give you extra peace of mind. When trouble arises, you can reach emergency personnel at the touch of a button. Automatic crash notification is another perk that comes with OnStar. Drivers can also use OnStar to obtain turn-by-turn driving directions and place hands-free phone calls.
8. A Very Safe Performance Machine
The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro is among the most secure sports cars in America. Last year, it scored well in all of the NHTSA’s critical crash tests. Aside from earning a five-star overall safety rating for its solid impact protection, this car also offers some helpful accident-avoidance tech. Drivers will especially appreciate the optional blind-spot monitor, which helps you to stay aware of oncoming traffic. Meanwhile, an available Rear Camera Mirror system further improves your visibility.
9. Practical Enough to Be a Daily-Driver
Often times, sports cars force you to sacrifice a great deal of practicality. Fortunately, the Chevy Camaro proves to be a great choice for daily commuting. A well-padded driver’s seat allows you to travel in comfort. There’s also enough legroom in the front to satisfy tall people. Easy-to-use interior controls make the Camaro an even more driver-friendly car. Although the Camaro does not have a large trunk, a folding rear allows you to store extra cargo.
10. Mighty ZL1 Model Delivers Sheer Performance
Atop the performance ladder is the Camaro ZL1, which can hang with the world’s top sports cars. Its supercharged V8 engine unleashes a staggering 650 horsepower and an equal amount of torque. When tested on the track, this high-output model ripped a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Race-ready suspension dampers also help the Camaro ZL1 to handle with poise. A carbon-fiber hood and spoiler come standard, which save weight.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro – The Cons
1. This Car Has Many Blind Spots
Like the previous generation, the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro has a lot of blind spots. Whether you’re changing lanes or parking, you always need to double check your surroundings. Rearward visibility in the new Camaro is especially poor. While the standard backup camera is a major help in tight spots, the optional blind-spot monitor may prove to be even more beneficial.
2. Not a Great Choice for Parents
As expected, the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro is not the best choice for families. While its rear seat will work well for small kids, most adults will feel uncomfortable riding in the back. Because of the Camaro’s two-door design, parents will have a harder time securing child seats. If you need to carry extra passengers, strongly consider the 2020 Dodge Challenger. It has one of the biggest backseats in the class.
3. Wet-Weather Performance Is Not Great
All versions of the Camaro feature a RWD system. This means the Camaro won’t perform as well during wet weather. Of course, driving this car in heavy snow is not recommended. A low ground clearance and diminished traction make the Camaro far more likely to get stuck. Drivers looking for a year-round performance car should look at the four-door Subaru WRX and the Audi TT. Both offer an AWD system for enhanced traction.
4. V8 Camaro Sacrifices City Fuel Economy
Despite its high-output V8 engine, the Camaro SS is great for highway driving. It has the ability to return up to 26 mpg. On the other hand, city fuel economy suffers greatly. Drivers can anticipate getting around 16 mpg. Furthermore, you’ll need to use high octane gas.
5. High-Performance Camaro ZL1’s Price Tag
Priced at around $62,000, the supercharged Camaro ZL1 is one of the top values in the world of high-performance cars. However, it’s still a bit too costly for the average car buyer. You should also factor in the Camaro ZL1’s extra maintenance costs. If the price of the new Camaro Zl1 seems too steep for your budget, consider the all-new LT1 trim. Chevy lists this V8-powered Camaro with an attractive MSRP of 34,000.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
2020 Ford Mustang
For years, the Ford Mustang has battled the Chevrolet Camaro. While the 2020 Ford Mustang is a great pick, it does not handle as well as the new Camaro.
2020 Dodge Challenger
There are many drivers who’ll like the Challenger’s retro styling and spacious interior. An optional AWD system also makes this muscle car a good option for snow-prone areas. However, the Challenger’s extra weight puts it at a disadvantage. It does not feel nearly as nimble as the Camaro.
2020 Subaru BRZ
The 2020 Subaru BRZ’s low center of gravity enables it to offer superb handling. However, its 205-horsepower engine forces you to sacrifice some performance.
Conclusion
When shopping for a sports coupe, don’t hesitate to test drive the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro. It’s fast, sleek, and loaded with premium features. You’ll also appreciate the Camaro’s comfortable front seats. However, be aware of this coupe’s blind spots before making a final decision.• 2020 Chevrolet Blazer
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