2020 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT

Not every Chevy Camaro packs a muscular V-8 and a manual transmission, which makes it accessible and desirable to most driving enthusiasts. Available as a sporty coupe and sun-loving convertible, the 2020 Camaro has unique styling that's ripe for customization. While its cabin feels cramped and its roof ruins outward visibility, the pony car is endlessly enjoyable to drive. A dutiful four-cylinder and spunky V-6 are the most affordable engines, but Chevy's brilliant 6.2-liter V-8 sounds great and goes like stink. An incredible performance package—called 1LE—is available on all coupes and transforms them into versatile track machines. Still, the 2020 Camaro continues the nameplate's tradition of offering something for everyone. One year after the Camaro received a mid-cycle refresh, Chevy has again updated the front-end styling of the 2020 Camaro SS and all-new LT1 model. The change repositions the company's bowtie emblem in the top grille and paints the bar between both grilles the same color as the body. The newly added Camaro LT1 provides the most affordable way to get a V-8, with a starting price that's $3000 less than an SS model. The V-6 model now pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission that replaces the old 8-speed. The lineup also adds a new Rally Green paint color and more personalization options. The 2020 Camaro is set to go on sale early this fall. The new LT1 model simply makes V-8 power more accessible. Still, we'd recommend a Camaro SS coupe with the standard six-speed manual transmission. Its standard 455-hp V-8 is close to perfection (unless fuel economy is a priority) and the manual gearbox is user-friendly and ultimately engaging. Sure, this combo is available on the LT1 model for less, but it requires the SS to have the phenomenal 1LE performance package. It costs another $7000, but it's well worth the money. Its copious track-ready equipment includes adaptive dampers, upgraded Brembo front brakes, electronic limited-slip diff, wider and stickier tires, and distinct interior and exterior enhancement. Best of all, the 1LE package doesn't compromise the Camaro's ride quality and livability. The base 275-hp four-cylinder isn't slow—we tested a manual model that made it to 60 mph in an earnest 5.1 seconds. But uneven throttle responses and unpleasant, unsporting sounds accompanied its dull demeanor. On the other hand, upgrading to the 335-hp naturally aspirated V-6 completely changes the car's character. The gutsy V-6 has its own distinctly searing soundtrack and redeems generations of ho-hum six-cylinders. The Camaro LT1 and SS feature Chevy's iconic small-block V-8, with 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. Its linear power delivery and chest-compressing acceleration are enhanced by the optional dual-mode exhaust, which erupts with a sharp bark at startup and thunderous sounds during wide-open-throttle blasts. The standard six-speed manual transmission maintains the enthusiast spirit, and the 10-speed automatic is now available with the V-6. Its astonishing chassis provides a car-and-driver connection (see what we did there?) that's unparalleled among pony cars. It's taut on the track yet relaxed on regular roads. Paired with the 1LE, the coupes transcend their class—competing with cars costing much, much more. The Camaro's solid structure engenders precise handling and a quality feel. Its well-balanced ride is firm enough to be agile on curvy roads yet still compliant on rough surfaces. The electrically assisted power-steering system has reasonable effort and accurate responses. The Camaro completes the performance trifecta with excellent brakes. The brake pedal consistently provides progressive and assuring responses. The 1LE models get even more powerful, track-ready Brembo brakes.