2018 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Review
The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible offers a modern take on the muscle-car genre and can be had in a large variety of engine and specification levels, ranging from a relatively tame 2.0-liter to tar-burning V8 which should cater to most tastes. 2018 sees the addition of new trim options.
What’s it like inside?
The stylish exterior design continues in to the Camaro's cabin where the dashboard and door panels look modern and sporty. The quality of the materials used is a step up from the previous generation Camaro but is still not quite there when it comes to some of the switchgear and buttons.
Practicality is also compromised by poor outward visibility and slightly tight accommodation for larger front occupants. The rear seats are also best reserved for children as head and leg room is not the Camaro Convertibles strong suit.
The small trunk opening reveals the smallest cargo area in its class and oddments storage inside the cabin is equally tight. All this makes the Camaro best suited for a couple who do not mind packing their weekend gear on the rear seats.
How does it drive?
The Camaro may not offer much in the way of interior ergonomics or space but when it comes to the driving experience it heads straight to the top of the class. Even in base form the suspension does a great job of offering high cornering limits and good bump absorption.
The big V8 models tend to turn in slightly less sharply but still feel well-balanced and the ride quality remains good on rough road surfaces.
Cabin noise is subdued too, the larger tires on higher trim levels do transmit some road noise but in general, with the roof up, the Camaro is an accomplished highway cruiser.
What about the performance?
The Chevrolet Camaro is available with a range of engines from the base 275 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque 2.0-liter turbo to the tire-shredding 6.2-liter supercharged V8 which makes 650hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. In-between these extremes are a 3.6-liter V6 (335hp, 284 lb-ft) and perhaps the sweet-spot in the range, a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 with 455hp and 455 lb-ft.
Rear-wheel drive is standard on all models and either a 6-speed manual transmission or 8-speed automatic transmission can be specified. The 6.2-liter supercharged unit is offered with an optional 10-speed auto 'box.
Performance levels are strong throughout and 0 to 60mph times start at the the mid-fives down to the mid-three second range which places the Camaro at the sharp end of the grid.
What are my options?
The Chevrolet Camaro convertible is available in six basic trim levels. The LS and LT trim levels are offered with either the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine or 3.6-liter V6. SS trim has the 450 hp V8 and the ZL1 comes equipped with the 650 hp supercharged engine.
1LS base trim models feature power front seats, rearview camera, power mirrors, LED daytime running lights, 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity and the 1LT trim adds the 8-speed automatic transmission and remote starting. An 8-inch touchscreen and upgraded audio system is available as an upgrade pack for both 1LS and 1LT.
2LT trim adds dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated power front seats covered in leather, 8-inch touchscreen and upgraded audio system and electrochromic mirror. The 6-speed manual transmission is standard on this trim.
1SS trim includes most of the 2LT trim items and adds the 6.2-liter 455hp V8, 20-inch wheels, uprated brakes, limited-slip differential and sport suspension.
2SS trim retains the 455hp V8 and adds to the 1SS trim with minor design accents, a Bose audio system, dual-zone climate control, 8-inch infotainment screen and heated seats.
ZL1 trim includes the majority of the above items and adds the 650 hp supercharged V8, unique ZL1 cosmetic items a dual-mode exhaust system and the option of a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Track performance packages and performance handling packages are also available depending on trim level.
The Verdict
The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible is a strong contender in its segment, offering a range of engines and equipment tiers that should cater for most shoppers needs.
If you can live with the mediocre cabin quality and limited interior space then you will be rewarded by one of the most capable performers in its class. Ride and handling are excellent too and those looks are still head-turning in the right color.