Camaro Coupe

Make
Chevrolet
Segment
Coupe

According to sales results analyzed by GM Authority, the Chevrolet Camaro is currently experiencing something of a sales slump in several major markets, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and South Korea compared to this time (Q3) last year.

In the first nine months of 2018 in the US, Camaro sales have fallen around 26 percent to a total of 39,828 units. Camaro sales were down by 11 percent in Canada, by 51 percent in Mexico, and by 69 percent in South Korea. What's going on here? These are the Camaro's most relevant markets, especially the US.

There could be a few reasons why. First, the refreshed 2019 model is due to go on sale in the very near future. Not only will it offer some exterior and interior styling updates, but also a revised trim level structure enabling more affordable trims. The 2019 Camaro is up to $2,000 less expensive than its 2018 counterpart, specifically in the mid-level LT models. Potential buyers may have already figured this out and are simply waiting to make a purchase until the 2019 models arrive in showrooms.

But the likely reason for the sluggish sales is pricing; the sixth-generation Camaro simply cost more than its two main competitors, the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger. Prior to its refresh, the Camaro started off at $26,900 for the LS coupe. Meanwhile, the Mustang was a bit cheaper at $26,120 and the Challenger at $27,295. Not huge differences but still, cheaper is cheaper.

At the same time, and this is why the refreshed Camaro can't come soon enough, not everyone is a fan of the latest Camaro's styling. Many think it looks way too similar to the previous fifth-generation and Chevrolet should have gone the extra mile or so to make the car more unique. Others have also complained about reduced visibility from within the cabin and, for some, an unattractive dashboard design.

Whatever the case(s) may be, we'll have to circle back around at the end of this year to further analyze pony car sales in general. At that time it's possible we could see whether or not the facelifted 2019 Camaro will provide the needed sales boost.