Chevrolet Camaro

Auto critics agree that the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro offers all the performance needed to live up to its iconic name. They write that even base V6 models offer ample power, and that despite its large size, the Camaro handles well. Still, some reviewers note that while the Camaro offers poised handling, its weight and limited outward visibility make the Camaro feel a bit more cumbersome than it should.

Acceleration and Power

The base 2014 Camaro has a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 323 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 278 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the base 1LS model, while a six-speed automatic is available on 2LS and higher trims. The EPA reports that the 2014 Camaro gets up to 19/30 mpg city/highway, which is about average for a muscle car, but less than the fuel economy of rivals like the Mazda Miata and Scion FR-S.

Camaro SS models come with a 6.2-liter V8 engine. When equipped with a manual transmission, the Camaro SS’ V8 generates 426 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 420 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm. Automatic models see a slight power drop, with 400 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 410 pound-feet of torque at 4,300 rpm. The high-performance Camaro Z/28 comes with a 7.0-liter V8 engine that produces 505 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque, while the Camaro ZL1 carries a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that generates 580 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 556 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm. Chevrolet says that the Camaro ZL1 will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 184 mph.

Reviewers agree that the V6 models pack enough power to live up to their muscle car heritage, while Camaro SS and ZL1 models offer a tremendous level of power. Some test drivers note that while the Camaro SS doesn’t feel particularly quick off the line, it offers exhilarating passing power when accelerating at higher speeds.

Handling and Braking

Most critics say that the 2014 Camaro delivers capable handling in spite of its large size, though few consider it the most nimble muscle car in the class. While reviewers praise the precise steering that all Camaro models offer, a few auto writers say that the Camaro’s weight and limited forward visibility can make it challenging to drive on a twisty road.