With styling cues borrowed from the 60's, a hungry V8 powerplant and only the rear wheels putting that power to the road, I expected similar results to that of the new Challenger. Lucky for me, I like surprises. Naturally, no one would hesitate at the chance to get behind the wheel of the newest ponycar on the streets. Let's break this down a bit.

The V6.

A Red Jewel awaited me. The RS package available as an optional $1705 package gives you 20 inch flangeless aluminum wheels (8" front, 9"rear) clad in Pirelli PZero tires, Halo HID daytime running lights, smoked rear tail lights and rear lip spoiler. Red "RS" takes its place in the front grille and trunk lid. the new Camaro is without doubt a car I could never get bored of looking at.

Inside is a medley of classic functionality with design similar to what was expected based on the Back to the Future 2015. It works. Having been inside the pre-production model about a year prior, I had remembered being left unsatisfied with the overall interior based on materials and quality. This simply was not the same car. Interior quality was astounding (for a GM vehicle).

I know, however, what you really want to read about. Yes, it was quick. Yes, it can go around corners. Yes, I want one. Punching the V6 from the line, there is a lot of go behind you. Quick response and sound from the front which is far for technical than the usual grunt from a muscle car, but a quick reminder from the traction control and the digital gauge reinforced that I wasn't driving a 1969 Camaro. Not knowing what to expect on the first corner I didn't push my luck. Quick but responsible, there seemed no question about it that the car was capable of more. The paddle-style shifters were enough to make a quick downshift when the occasion deemed it necessary. It was composed, but you still knew you were in a rear wheel drive car with enough power exercise without the traction control.

Overall, a strong, smooth V6 with enough power to keep the drive enjoyable. An immediate success in my opinion. I was happy to say I was glad GM took the time to make it a perfect driver.




The V8.

The start-up told me I was not in the same car I had just driven. Then again, so did every other action on the drive. The exhaust brought a tune to my ear I was quite familiar with, the whole package sounded like muscle. While missing the RS accessories, it allowed for a more focused test. Acceleration was world's apart from the V6 and it presented a very welcoming push into the back of the seat. Excellent throttle response was well paired with a positive feel in the steering. The back of my brain was saying, "Go easy", partially due to the exhaust and bright yellow exterior. A thought quickly cast aside by the look from the BMW driver next to me at the red. Not that I ever doubted the potential, but it brought a smile to my face when the car set off. With a similar automatic setup as the V6 model, my appetite was left desiring a taste of the manual. Unfortunately, GM did not seek to whet this at the event.

Clearly the winner of the day, the V8 is the first choice for one seeking a modern muscle. However, the V6 can be adequate for someone looking for a sporty daily driver, for economy, while needing a little fun every now and then. The primary decision breaker? Well, what if a Mustang GT or Hemi Challenger pulls up...



-Dr.D