Official UK sales of the Chevrolet Camaro have started. And it’s priced exceedingly competitively, going into battle against high-spec Audi TTs and Nissan 370Zs with a 6.2-litre V8 engine. The Camaro Coupe costs £34,995, the Convertible £39,995, both boasting a 426bhp/420lb ft naturally aspirated V8, driving the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic is an option, but this shaves 27bhp and 10lb ft from those maximum outputs. The Camaro, like many of its rivals, has a 155mph limited top speed, though 0-62mph takes 5.2sec in the manual, several tenths quicker than its European and Japanese foes. Returning 20mpg (claimed, combined) and emitting 329g/km of CO2, it’s certainly not as clean as them though. Standard equipment includes 20in alloys, Brembo brakes, a nine-speaker audio system and a head-up display.
For a limited time, the 2012 45th Anniversary Camaro – complete with Carbon Flash Black paint and red detailing – will be available for a £1500 premium. Sadly, the Camaro remains left-hand drive, but with just 200 a year set to make it to the UK, Chevrolet’s reasoning is understandable. There’s no word on whether high-performance versions – such as the monster new Camaro ZL1 – will make it to these shores, but if the standard car proves a success, we’ve every chance. Get buying…
