2013 Chevrolet Camaro Total Car Score Analysis

The 2013 Chevrolet Camaro earns a below average Total Car Score for the Sport Coupes & Convertibles segment.  
 
Now three years into its fifth generation, the Camaro is going through revisions and model additions (like the new-for-2013 Camaro ZL1 convertible, reviewed separately) rather than wholesale change. There’s a new Blue Ray Metallic exterior color, new 18- and 20-inch wheel designs, and some ZL1 parts -- electric power steering, dual-mode exhaust, even the manual transmission shift knob -- are now offered on SS models.  
 
Those who like to take their Camaro to track days (or just want race-car-like handling for the street) can opt for the 1LE performance package, which includes upgraded chassis and suspension pieces, a close-ratio manual transmission, a lower (higher numerically) rear gear ratio, and Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 ultra-high-performance tires. The 1LE package almost turns a SS Camaro into a ZL1, minus the supercharged engine, launch control and carbon-fiber hood insert.  
 
Not all Camaros are that hardcore; there are V6 models that you don’t have to take to the track to enjoy and will return 30 mpg on the highway.

2013 Chevrolet Camaro Model Line-Up

The 2013 Chevrolet Camaro will seat four in a choice of coupe or convertible body styles. Two engines are available (three if you count the ultra-high-performance Camaro ZL1, reviewed separately), as are a number of trim levels.  
 
The Camaro engine used in LS and LT models is a 3.6-liter V6 that sends 323 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of peak torque to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. SS models are outfitted with one of two 6.2-liter V8s, depending on transmission choice. The LS3 V8 backed by a six-speed manual produces 426 hp and 420 lb-ft, while the L99 V8 hooked to a six-speed automatic makes 400 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque.  
 
The Camaro coupe is offered in LS, LT and SS models, while the convertible is available in LT and SS trim. Each model has two equipment levels, indicated on the options sheet with either a 1 or 2 in front of the model designator. So the base Camaro coupe is a 1LS, equipped with 18-inch steel wheels, a manual transmission, sport bucket seats with cloth upholstery, manual air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity and a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio. The 2LS model is essentially identical except that it’s fitted with an automatic transmission.  
 
1LT models add 18-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded audio system with a 7-inch touch-screen and Chevy’s MyLink Touch infotainment system, and six-way adjustable power front seats; while 2LT models come with 19-inch alloy wheels, a backup camera, heated outside mirrors, rear park assist, leather front seat upholstery and heated front seats.  
 
The V8-powered 1SS models roll on 20-inch alloy wheels and are fitted with SS-specific front and rear body pieces and electric power steering; while the 2SS models have a backup camera, heated outside mirrors, leather front seat upholstery and heated front seats.  
 
Regarding fuel economy, the Camaro with a V6 and automatic transmission is the most fuel frugal, returning 19 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined, according to the EPA. No surprise that the V8 is the thirstiest; when backed by an automatic it reached 15/24/18 mpg. The other engine/driveline combinations found on the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro fell in between those figures.

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