Chevrolet Camaro Coupe (2012-2015) interior, tech and comfort
Yes, unsurprisingly, it’s left-hand drive. This may not be an issue for you, but some people just can’t get used to it. So, try before you buy. Inside, those who’ve owned a recent Vauxhall or Chevrolet product will feel right at home. Elements like the steering wheel, indicator stalks and minor switchgear are lifted straight from the GM parts bin. As with most American performance cars, they’re cheaper than the equivalently performing European competition.
This is because the American manufacturers stereotypically spend their budget chasing performance, rather than fit and finish. This doesn’t mean that the Camaro interior is of a poor standard, however. It looks the part, and it’s a pleasant place to be, but it’s just not as upmarket as a Porsche or BMW. The instruments and controls are all well placed and intuitive to use, while the heads-up-display is unobtrusive and adds a little flair.
There’s also a neat cluster of ancillary gauges in front of the gear lever. Some trim is of a disappointing, however. Some areas, like the headlining and dash, seem cheap and thin in places. This contradicts with the overall solid feel of the car.
Although it’s a brash and aggressive coupe, the Camaro’s a comfortable place to be. Even across country at speed, you never feel unsettled. There’s plenty of room in the front, with a good range of seat adjustments. The steering wheel adjusts for rise and reach, meaning finding your ideal driving position isn’t complicated. Headroom is also acceptable, given the low roof line.
The Camaro’s front and rear pillars are quite substantial, and the windows narrow, which cuts your visibility. This can make the Camaro a little unnerving to drive in heavy traffic. Reversing can also be tricky but parking sensors are included and a rear view camera is available. The cabin is refined, with road, wind and engine noise being well muted.
For some, however, the relative silence of the V8 power plant may be as surprising as it is disappointing. That’s something that an aftermarket exhaust would easily correct, however. The ride is also impressive, although there is some vibration on certain surfaces. The Camaro doesn’t crash into potholes, despite its substantial alloy wheels, while its well-configured suspension helps it ride crests and bumps with ease.