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2012 Chevrolet Camaro review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Chevrolet Camaro highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Strong acceleration with V6 and V8 engines
  • Good fuel economy from the V6
  • Capable handling

Cons

  • Difficult to see out of
  • Cramped rear seat
  • Undersized trunk with a small opening

Mileage (EPA estimate)

14 city, 19 highway, 16 combined

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The 2012 Chevy Camaro gets improved interior and more power

The 2012 Chevy Camaro’s looks make it stand out from the throwback designs of its muscle car competitors, while its combination of strong acceleration and sharp handling give it true sports car capabilities. The base V6 engine found on LS and LT trims is a strong performer in its own right. Step up to SS trims for the power and sound of a V8, or to the ZL1 for maximum performance from a supercharged V8 engine. The Camaro does have some notable downsides, including poor visibility, a cramped back seat, and a tiny trunk.

The 2012 model year marked the Camaro’s 45th anniversary, and it received a refreshed interior, more power for its V6 engine, an available backup camera, and an improved suspension for the SS Coupe. The Camaro ZL1 also became available for 2012 with a much more powerful V8 engine and other performance upgrades.

All Chevrolet Camaro years

What is new for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro?

  • The Camaro is available in a variety of new trims, including the 1SS and ZL1.
  • Camaro trims have been upgraded with Rear View Camera, Adjustable Suspension, Automatic Transmission, and Supercharged Engine as standard equipment this year.
  • Leather & Suede Seats features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The LT trim now comes with Rear Spoiler as standard equipment.
  • The LS trim now comes with Rear Spoiler and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment.

What We Like 

  • Acceleration: Both the 323-horsepower standard V6 engine and the 426-horsepower V8 found in the Camaro SS are impressive performers. Step up to the ZL1 and you get a mind-blowing 580 horsepower. There’s not a slow option in the group, giving the Camaro true muscle-car cred. 

  • Fuel-efficient V6: The 2012 Camaro’s V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway when paired with an automatic transmission. Contemporary V6 Mustangs just edge past the Chevy, but the Camaro’s fuel economy rating remains a strong showing for a sports car of the time.  

  • Handling: The Camaro’s modern design isn’t just skin-deep. Compared to its top competitors in 2012, the Camaro offers more sophisticated ride and handling characteristics. That makes it more composed and more engaging to drive when the road gets twisty. 

 What Needs Improvement 

  • Usability: The Camaro’s low-slung looks and aggressive proportions affect visibility and space. The car is more difficult to see out of than its competitors, and the tiny back seat and awkwardly small trunk mean there’s not much room for people or cargo.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Chevrolet Camaro an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Chevrolet Camaro 21st out of 28 among Midsize Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Chevrolet Camaro

Chevrolet Camaro features and specs

Curious how Chevrolet Camaro trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SS 2WD 2D Convertible

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Manual Transmission
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Soft Top
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Boston Sound System
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Head Up Display
  • Leather Seats
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear View Camera

Drive Wheels

Rear wheel drive (2WD)

Engine size

6.2L

Horsepower

426

Torque (ft-lbs)

420

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

19

Wheelbase

112.3"

Overall length

190.4"

Width

75.5"

Height

54.7"

Leg room

F 42.4"/R 29.9"

Head room

F 37.8"/R 35.7"

Front tires

P245/45R20

Rear tires

P275/40R20

Seating capacity

4

Transmission

Manual 6

2012 Chevrolet Camaro FAQ

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