For over three years the General has been teasing and tempting enthusiasts with the next generation Camaro. You’ve seen the jaw-dropping retro inspired concept, spy photos of camouflaged development mules and you know all the machismo Mustang owners can’t wait to meet one in person. In this day of social and governmental scrutiny, kudos to Chevy for staying the course and delivering a great value for all enthusiasts.

In this review of the actual production cars, we outline exactly what you are getting in the final ride, as released by our friends at General Motors.

SS OFFERS TWO V8 ENGINES TO MATCH FOR YOUR DRIVING STYLE

Two 6.2L V-8 engines are offered in the Camaro SS, including the new L99 engine for automatic-equipped vehicles and the LS3 engine for manual-equipped models. Both engines are derived from the LS3 that debuted on the 2008 Corvette.

The 90-degree V-8 includes an aluminum block (with cast iron cylinder liners) and aluminum cylinder heads. The Chevy tried and true two-valve cylinder head design is based on race-proven airflow dynamics. The intake valves measure 2.16 inches (55 mm) in diameter and exhaust valves are 1.60 inches (40.5 mm) in diameter. The 6.2L engines use a roller lifter-style camshaft with 5-percent greater intake-side valve lift than the Corvette’s LS3. Airflow into the cylinder heads is channeled through an acoustically tuned composite intake manifold. The throttle body bore diameter is now at 90 mm. The bottom end includes a new structural cast aluminum oil pan, with an oil capacity of 8.9 quarts (8.5 liters).

Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) at 5,900 rpm and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm) at 4,300 rpm. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) at 5,900 rpm and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm) at 4,600 rpm.

Output on the automatic only L99 is lower than the LS3 because of a slighter lower compression ratio (10.4:1 vs. 10.7:1) and the design features of its Active Fuel Management System. Naturally, the SS Camaro features a full dual exhaust system, with two catalytic converters to reduce back pressure.

On SS Camaro models, the new Tremec TR 6060 six-speed manual is paired with the LS3 engine. The TR 6060 is designed to handle the 420 ft. lbs. of torque from the engine. The transmission also features a hydraulic throwout bearing, smoother gear synchronization and greater overall shift feel. Its specs include a solid 290 mm flywheel and single-plate clutch. The final drive ratio for the LS3 equipped Camaro is 3.45:1.

The highest tourque capacity automatic ever mated to a GM passenger car, the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic, is matched with the L99 engine. It features driver paddle shift control and Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS). The final drive ratio on all automatic-equipped Camaro models is 3.27:1.

The Camaro SS with an automatic is rated at 16 city and 25 highway; and 16 city/24 highway with the manual transmission. Notably, none of Camaro’s models is subject to federal gas guzzler taxes.

300+ HORSEPOWER FROM A BASE V6! A TRUE SLEEPER.

The base LS and LT V-6 Camaro has set the standard now for entry level American made performance sport coupes. It’s direct-injection, variable cam phasing, DOHC 4-Valve V6 is rated at 304HP at 5,900 rpm and 273 at 5,200 rpm. It’s 60-degree 3.6L cylinder block and cylinder heads are cast aluminum to help reduce weight. A forged steel crankshaft provides optimal strength in the bottom end. A full dual exhaust system, with dual catalytic converters, helps reduce back pressure for optimum power. It also helps the engine reach operating temperature quicker to help burn off cold-start emissions. And despite a compression ratio of 11.3:1, the 3.6L DI engine is designed to run on regular gas. The LS and LT’s 29 mpg highway fuel rating is another bonus with today’s volatile fuel prices.

Standard with the 3.6L engine is the Aisin AY6 six-speed manual transmision. It features lower shift effort and a short throw shifter. A hydraulic throwout bearing and self-adjusting mechanism eliminates the need for adjustments throughout the lifespan of the transmission. The Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic is optional with 3.6L-equipped models. It’s 4.07:1 first gear ratio delivers strong launches, but also provides tall overdrive ratios that decrease engine rpm and provide better fuel efficiency. The 6L50 also includes driver shift control via paddle shifts located on the steering wheel. Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS) is included with the 6L50. It lets the electronic transmission controller override the automatic gear selection during performance maneuvers.

FOUR-WHEEL INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION, A CAMARO FIRST!

Drag race diehards will hem-and-haw BUT GET OVER IT!!!! Fully independent front and rear suspensions are the underpinnings of the 2010 Camaro. Two suspension packages are offered: FE2 sport on V-6 models and FE3 performance with the V-8.

The Camaro independent rear suspension is designed to compete with the best in the world (can you say BMW, Porsche, Nissan). The 4.5-link system includes a unique, L-shaped upper control arm that attaches to the knuckle at one end and incorporates a ride bushing at the rear chassis mount. Rear suspension features include high lateral stiffness for handling via three lateral ball joints per side.

The rear sub-frame is double-isolated to minimize vehicle body motions and dampen road imperfections. The FE2 package with a manual transmission includes a spring rate of 53 Nm, with wheel travel at 115 mm, and employs a limited-slip differential. The FE3 rear axle uses a limited slip differential on both manual- and automatic-equipped models; and the rear spring rate is increased to 66 Nm and wheel travel is reduced to 100 mm. Coil-over shock absorbers are used in the rear with a decoupled, hollow stabilizer bar. FE2 package includes a 21.7 x 3 mm rear bar, while the FE3’s large bar measures 23 x 3 mm.

The axle half-shafts on all V-8 models and manual transmission-equipped V-6 models are 30 mm in diameter on the left side and 40 mm on the right side. This design feature helps reduce the oscillation of torque from side to side and reduces axle hop.

The front suspension has a dual ball strut system, with a direct-acting stabilizer bar that measures 22.2 x 4 mm on FE2 and 23 x 4.2 mm on FE3. Hollow bars are used for mass savings. The front spring rates for FE2 models are 25 Nm, with wheel travel at 96 mm. FE3 models include a stiffer, 27 Nm spring rate, with wheel travel reduced at 84 mm.

STEERING AND BRAKES TO CONTROL THE BEAST.

The 2010 Camaro’s precise rack-and-pinion steering gives great driver feedback and cornering confidence. The design includes the rack mounted forward of the front axle centerline that enhances handling and provides a stiffer system, while maintaining a degree of lateral force that helps vehicle stability during turn-in. It also benefits noise and vibration characteristics. The steering ratio is 16.1:1 on all models, with 2.5 turns lock-to-lock. The turning circle diameter for all wheel-and-tire combinations is 37.7 feet (11.5 meters).

The Camaro SS front brake package includes Brembo 355 mm x 32 mm vented rotors with four-piston aluminum calipers. Semi-metallic brake linings are used at all four corners on FE3 models for superior fade resistance and pedal feel. The rear brakes are vented Brembo rotors measuring 365 mm x 28 mm, with aluminum four-piston calipers.
Front brakes for V6 LS and LT models include single-piston calipers with 321 mm x 30 mm rotors. Organic, non-asbestos brake pad compounds are used with FE2 brakes. At the rear are vented rear discs measuring 315 mm x 30 mm, with a single-piston aluminum caliper.

Hydraulic brake assist also is standard on all models. The system activates during emergency braking by detecting the speed and force the driver applies to the brakes. Under certain conditions, the hydraulic brake assist may activate the ABS more quickly and easily than vehicles without the feature.

HIGH TECH SYSTEMS KEEP YOU ON THE ROAD

Based on GM’s global rear-drive passenger car architecture, the Camaro sits on a 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase, with an overall length of 190.4 inches (4,836 mm). The front track is a wide 63.7 inches (1,618 mm) for all models, while the rear track on LS and LT models is 64.1 inches (1,628 mm) and 63.7 inches (1,618 mm) on SS models.

All Camaro models include a four-channel StabiliTrak electronic stability control system that incorporates anti-lock braking, traction control and an active braking system to control wheel slip, optimize traction and enhance stability in wet, snow-covered or icy roads.

All SS models have a competitive/sport mode that optimizes the electronic stability control system for competitive driving and track conditions. It provides a less governed level of stability control for expert driving on race tracks. The stability control system engages only in severe oversteer or extreme acceleration in this mode.

New for Camaro SS models with a manual transmission is a Performance Launch Control that’s enabled in the competitive mode. It is designed to control wheel slip to an optimal level, allowing hard accelerations at launch with maximum grip.

WHEELS AND TIRES, SHOW US YOUR DUBS!

For SS models, 20-inch wheels are standard, with tire sizes of 245/45R20 up front and 275/40R20 at the rear. SS models are equipped with Pirelli Pzero summer-only, Z-rated tires. Twenty-one-inch wheels and tires are available as accessories through Chevrolet dealerships

Standard on LS models are P245/55R18 all season BFGoodrich touring tires mounted on 18 x 7.5-inch steel wheels. Optional wheels include 18 x 7.5-inch and 19 x 8-inch aluminum alloy wheels. On the optional 19-inch wheel, P245/50R19 Pirelli Pzero Nero M+S may be ordered..

RETRO STYLING ON CONCEPT STAYED TRUE TO PRODUCTION

Its like 1969 all over again with a design that is very close to the original Camaro concept, the 2010 Camaro acknowledges its heritage from the first-generation Camaro. The two-door sports coupe features classic proportions over a 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase. The overall length of the Camaro is 190.4 inches (4,836 mm); width and height are 75.5 inches (1,918 mm) and 54.2 inches (1,376 mm), respectively.

The “pony car” standard long hood and short deck are pushed to the far corners of the muscular fender forms and a fast, 67-degree windshield rake contributes to aerodynamic performance that “cuts” a 0.37 coefficient of drag (Cd) on V-6 models and a slightly sleeker 0.35 Cd on the V-8-powered SS model.

Wheel arch openings received special attention through the design process. These cars have to roll on pot hole ridden streets of the Midwest as well as the smooth as silk roads out west. Whether the Camaro is equipped with the standard 18-inch, or optional 19-inch or 20-inch wheels, the relationship of the top of the tire and bottom of the fender is consistent on all models. All models also feature the classic “V” design motif in the nose, along with a 2.5-inch (63.5 mm) power dome in the aluminum hood, reminiscent of high-performance Camaro models. On SS models, a simulated air intake is located in the upper front fascia and the lower air intake is larger.

On the Camaro roof panel, designers took a cue from Corvette and sculpted twin cockpits across the roof, giving the vehicle a distinctive Chevrolet presence. From the outside, the B-pillar is black and invisible to the eye, lending the true appearance of a hardtop coupe. The B-pillar is designed to provide increased structural rigidity to the car. And to ensure quality in the manufacturing process, a one-piece body stamping provides a cleaner overall side appearance that is free of seams, gaps or plastic appliqués. “Gills” located in the front of the rear quarter panel also are familiar 1969 Camaro styling cues.

An RS appearance package is available on LT and SS. It includes HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, a rear spoiler on LT, specific taillamps and 20-inch wheels with a Midnight Silver finish.

Ten exterior colors are available and include Black, Victory Red, Rally Yellow and Silver Ice Metallic. Red Jewel Tintcoat is also available as an option. The color palette also includes Cyber Gray Metallic, Aqua Blue Metallic, Inferno Orange Metallic, White and Imperial Blue Metallic.

RETRO STYLED INTERIOR COMPLIMENTS EXTERIOR

To match the Camaro’s retro exterior, GM designers continued the heritage theme of 67-69 Camaros inside the car. Recessed gauges, located in square housings outlined in chrome, give a nod to the classic interior. The instrument panel gauges include both speedometer and engine rpm, with a driver information center located between the large gauges. Readouts and features are controlled with a stalk on the steering column. An optional, console-mounted gauge package includes; oil pressure, oil temperature, volts and transmission fluid temperature. The gauge package is included on 2LT and 2SS models.

All models include a three-spoke steering wheel with manual tilt/telescope adjustment. Cruise control and rear defog also are standard, while a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; redundant steering wheel controls; Bluetooth and USB port are part of the available Driver Convenience and Connectivity package. Also included in the package is remote start on automatic transmission-equipped vehicles, as well as a personal device interface module for iPods.

Cloth seats are standard and leather-appointed seats are included on 2LT and 2SS models. Four-way manual adjustment including fore/aft and up/down on the driver seat and two-way adjustment on the passenger seat is standard. Heated, leather-trimmed seats with driver six-way power adjustment are optional.

Both LT and SS standard cloth and available leather interior colors are black, gray and beige. On SS models, the seats feature a distinctive SS logo on the headrest with contrasting stitching. An Inferno Orange interior trim package also will be available with leather interiors.

Camaro’s entertainment systems include a single-CD radio with six speakers that is standard on LS, LT and SS models. A premium, 245-watt Boston Acoustics nine-speaker audio system can be ordered on 1LT and SS models. XM Satellite Radio is standard on all models.

All models also include power door locks and express up and down driver and passenger window. Cargo capacity can be increased with the standard fold-down rear seat. The capacity of the trunk is 11.3 cubic feet (320 liters).