2019 Chevrolet Camaro Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

If you're looking for an exciting coupe or convertible, don't hesitate to test drive the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro. This legendary muscle car is now better than ever. Not only will the new Camaro deliver a high level of performance on the street, but it also proves to be a capable track machine. A long list of high-tech goodies adds to the fun. While the Camaro has the ability to captivate drivers, don't overlook its potential flaws. Should you buy one?

What's New for 2019?

This year, Chevy has updated the Camaro's front and rear styling. On the inside, a new infotainment system replaces the old MyLink interface. Furthermore, even the four-cylinder Camaro can now be equipped with a performance package.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Chevrolet Camaro – The Pros

1. Fun and Affordable Base LS Model

You'll have a hard time finding a better performance car for $25,000. The base 2019 Chevrolet Camaro LS is more fun than some drivers may think. Its boosted four-cylinder engine pours out 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds proves the Camaro LS isn't a slow mover. It also sips fuel. Models fitted with an automatic transmission should have no trouble returning 31 mpg on the highway.

2. Capable Yet Economical V6 Engine

If you find the V8 engine to be a bit too hard on gas, don't hesitate to choose the more economical V6. It develops a healthy 335 horsepower while delivering up to 28 mpg. You can even fill the tank with regular unleaded. Most importantly for driving enthusiasts, the V6-powered Camaro is fast. You'll be able to hit 60 mph in around 5.1 seconds. An available performance exhaust also helps the V6 Camaro to sound beastly.

3. Thrilling LT1 V8 Engine

Hardcore muscle car fans will want the legendary Camaro SS. Its V8 engine churns out an exciting 455 horsepower. The extra power dips the Camaro's 0-60 time to a scorching 4.1 seconds. Aside from the SS model's heart-stopping acceleration, it also sounds phenomenal. Everyone will love its classic V8 exhaust note. You can shift your own gears with the six-speed manual transmission or opt for a new 10-speed automatic.

4. Handles Better Than Some High-End Sports Cars

The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro is a precision tool. Not only is it the best-handling American muscle car, but it can also hang with a lot of high-end sports cars on the track. Driving purists will greatly appreciate the steering system's tight feel. If you really want to compete with today's best, opt for the 1LE Track Performance package. It equips the Camaro with upgraded performance tires, stiffer springs, and stronger brakes.

5. Plenty of Standard Features

An impressive list of standard features helps make the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro an unbelievable bargain. The Camaro's standard Wi-Fi hot spot is a convenience rarely found in this price class. Meanwhile, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat helps you to obtain a comfy position behind the wheel. Some of the other standard items include a new touch-screen interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an emergency communications system, and adjustable driving modes.

6. New and Improved Infotainment System

Chevy decided to ditch the previous MyLink infotainment system. Although MyLink was easy to use, the new interface exceeds it in several key aspects. Drivers will certainly enjoy the new interface's quicker response times. When driving around on a sunny day, there's much less glare than before. Because the available navigation system is so straightforward, you'll be able to easily follow the driving directions. Integrating your smartphone also proves to be a simple task.

7. World-Class ZL1 Camaro

Atop the performance ladder sits the electrifying 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. It can go head-to-head with the likes of the Porsche 911 and the Audi R8. Motivating the Camaro ZL1 is a supercharged version of the SS model's V8 engine. It cultivates a hair-raising 650 horsepower and an equal amount of torque. A seriously low 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds enables the Camaro ZL1 to reach triple digits very quickly. Chevy offers a special track package as an option.

8. A Safe Sports Car

The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro provides outstanding impact protection for a performance car. It garnered the NHTSA's top overall safety rating. Because of the Camaro's five-star rollover rating, even the convertible body style is highly recommended. Chevy also offers some useful driving aids, including forward collision alert and blind-spot warning. Meanwhile, Chevy's Teen Driver technology allows parents to supervise their teenager.

9. New Rear Camera Mirror

You can get the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro with GM's innovative Rear Camera Mirror system. It's designed to greatly enhance the driver's field of vision. You'll be able to see what's behind you at all times. A built-in washer helps remove dust and pollen from the camera lense.

10. Very Powerful Brakes

During panic situations on the road, you'll be thankful for the Camaro's powerful braking system. Upon stepping on the brake pedal, the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro always remains stable. If you desire enhanced stopping power, opt for the available Heavy-Duty Cooling and Braking package. It comes with four-piston front brakes, which are perfect for track use.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Chevrolet Camaro – The Cons

1. Not Spacious On the Inside

The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro provides a lot less passenger room than the Dodge Challenger. Larger drivers may desire more space to spread out. Although the Camaro features a backseat, most people will feel incredibly uncomfortable sitting in it. A lack of cargo space is another one of the Camaro's shortcomings. When traveling to an out-of-town destination, you'll need to pack light.

2. Poor Outward Visibility Continues to Plague

For years, drivers have complained about the Camaro's poor visibility. The new model continues to suffer from the same problem. Chopped windows and bulky roof pillars create additional blind spots. For this reason, it's a good idea to opt for the new Rear Camera Mirror and blind-spot detection. These driving aids will help you to remain aware of other vehicles on the road.

3. Controversial New Styling

Some longtime Camaro fans have complained about the refreshed model's styling. In comparison to today's other muscle cars, it seems the Camaro has a bit less personality. Many people will actually prefer the look of last year's Camaro. Only time will tell whether buyers will be happy with the muscle car's new facelift.

4. No AWD System

As expected, the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro remains a RWD-only muscle car. While you'll find the Camaro to be an exciting performer, it does not perform very well in the snow. Drivers who can't stay home during the winter will need the enhanced traction of an AWD system. The Dodge Challenger is currently the only car in the segment that offers all-wheel drive.

5. V-8 Models Guzzle More Fuel in the City

The V8-powered Camaro models are not very efficient in urban areas. While the Camaro SS returns 16 mpg in the city, the supercharged ZL1 model delivers only 14 mpg. You also need to feed these models premium unleaded fuel.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

For decades, the Chevrolet Camaro has remained at war with the Ford Mustang. In terms of straight-line acceleration, these muscle cars are neck and neck. However, automotive journalists consider the Camaro to be the best-handling vehicle. On the other hand, better long-term reliability and a nicer interior give the Mustang an edge.

You can also compare the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro to the new Dodge Challenger. Although the heavyweight Challenger isn't as nimble as the Camaro, it's far roomier. You'll also enjoy the Challenger's plush highway ride.

Conclusion

This is a highly recommended performance car. You'll enjoy its precise driving dynamics and strong acceleration off the line. The boosted ZL1 model can easily keep up with exotic cars that are thousands of dollars more expensive. While some drivers love the new Camaro's edgier styling, others hate it. Because the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro comes loaded with such a great number of features, it's an excellent choice for the sports car fans who are on a budget. Top-notch safety scores also make the Camaro a good car for first-time performance car owners.