The comeback of the Camaro last year with the 2010 generated a lot of excitement in the automotive world. Since it is almost time for a new model year, we are starting to see 2011 Camaro pictures all over the internet. This time it’s not quite as exciting.
The V6 engine horsepower rating has increased from 304 HP in 2010 to 312 HP in 2011. The torque has gone from 273 lb-ft to 278 lb-ft. Unfortunately this does not reflect any improvement in the engine. What has changed is that SAE certification has been completed, so the earlier conservative specs have been replaced with specs derived from the certification. The other performance specifications are unchanged from the 2010 model.
Fans of the paper power derby will note that the V6 Camaro is thus passing the comparable Mustang on horsepower. The Mustang is still slightly ahead in fuel economy, 29 or 30 MPG for the Mustang against 29 MPG for the Camaro. This will definitely not bring the which is better conversation to an end.
For the driver, an exciting new development is the availability of a Head Up Display (HUD) on some models, similar to that found on the Corvette. The HUD displays the speed, RPM, radio station, and more on the windshield. OnStar navigation instructions also appear on the HUD.
If you like the new Synergy Green, note that it will be available on all Trim Levels of the 2011. It was first issued on the 2010 Synergy Special Edition Camaro and then offered on the 1LT Trim Level. Due to its popularity, it is being made more available.
The official General Motors site does not mention this, but rumor has it that a 2011 Camaro SS Convertible may be announced soon. Apparently it will be a rag top. It will have small quarter windows and a glass rear window. It will have a unique spoiler and a shark fin antenna on the trunk.
The bad news is that the relaunch of the Camaro Z28 will take place in the 2012 model year. Earlier reports had claimed this would happen in the 2011 model year. It appears that the General Motors financial crisis caused a slight delay. It should be out sometime late in 2011. The word is that it will have a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 with roughly 556 horsepower.
The two V8 engine options for the 2011 Camaro are unchanged from 2010. With the 6 speed manual transmission, the V8 option is the 6.2 liter LS3 producing 426 horsepower at 5900 RPM and 420 lb-ft. At 4600 RPM. The 6 speed automatic transmission comes with the 6.2 liter L99 V8, which produces 400 horsepower at 5900 RPM and 410 lb-ft. At 4300 RPM. The L99 engine has Active Fuel Management, which deactivates half of the cylinders under light load. This gives significantly better mileage.
If you like the retro look, you will like viewing the 2011 Camaro interior pictures. The quality is definitely not luxury, but the instruments are well laid out and current. You probably won’t be surprised by the small back seat, but the small opening into the trunk will annoy you when loading large objects.
As you can see from the 2011 Camaro pictures it is a step up, just not a big one. It has improvements, just nothing dramatic. If you want drama, stay tuned for the upcoming convertible and Z28.
See a full array of 2011 Camaro pictures at Jim White’s site including 2011 Camaro interior pictures.