2013 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe 3.6L V6 6MT RWD (323 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Chevrolet updated the look of the Camaro’s fifth generation in 2013 for the 2014 model year, updating the already beloved retro-design styling.

Between 2010 and 2012, Chevrolet won the sales battle against its main competitor, the Mustang. At the same time, the Dodge Challenger was way behind its schedule and struggled to survive. But the bow-tie brand lost the title in 2013 when Ford overtook it in the sales figures. But Chevrolet had expected this and slowly cooked a refresh for the lineup and took back the lead in 2013 before losing it badly in 2015 when the original pony car with the blue-oval badge reached its sixth generation, but at least it managed to stay ahead of the Challenger.

Chevrolet wanted to have a sleeker Camaro, one that could cut through the air more easily than before. In addition, it considered using aerodynamics to gain more ponies or, at least, to help cool the engine and other components. For that, the front fascia went through an update, gaining a narrower upper grille and wider lower opening. Those who ordered the RS package were delighted to see the new “halo ring” that adorned the HID headlights. After being criticized for using fake hood scoops, the carmaker decided to install a functional one for the SS version that reduced the heat in the engine bay and reduced the front axle aerodynamic lift. Finally, at the back, the 2014 Camaro sported horizontal taillights, emphasizing the car’s width. Last but not least, a small wing on the deck and a diffuser underneath the bumper completed the image of this sporty vehicle.

The interior also gained a few amenities. Besides the MyLink infotainment system fitted with a color display starting with the 2013 model year, the automaker offered additional options for the seats and trims. Chevrolet included a matte-metallic finish called Octane for the Z/28 package and added the ZL1 flat-bottom steering wheel and Recaro seats with suede inserts. These were also available for the SS and ZL1 grades. These high-bolstered bucket seats provided better side support during high-speed cornering, keeping their occupants in place. Moreover, Chevrolet bragged about offering the Camaro as a true 2+2 coupe and adopting weight-saving solutions for the vehicle, lowering the mass of the rear seats by nine pounds (4 kg.). That also helped with the car’s weight distribution, too.

Under the hood, the most significant upgrade was the addition of the seven-liter LS7 engine developed together with the Corvette Racing department. As a result, the new powerplant offered a massive 500 HP (507 PS) and 470 lb-ft. (637 Nm) of torque, which it sent through a Tremec six-speed manual to the rear wheels via a limited slip differential, resulting in a 0 to 60 MPH (0-97 kph) time of under four seconds. The rest of the engine lineup remained basically the same, with a 3.6-liter V6 for the base model and a 6.2-liter V8 for other variants.