Is the Camaro a Good Daily Driver? (incl. Camaro SS & ZL1)
The Camaro’s ride quality is a big plus in this muscle car being an acceptable daily driver, but the poor visibility remains a major sticking point.
The different generations and trims come with varying degrees of suitability for everyday use.
Chevy Camaro’s Negatives as a Daily Driver
#1 Muscle Car Fuel Economy (Except for Newer i4s)
Fuel consumption in the Camaros isn’t any worse than muscle cars, but it’s expectedly high given their performance capabilities.
V8 Camaros – the SS and ZL1 – return a meager sub-20-mpg in mixed driving.
The only way to achieve combined mpg above 20 is by opting for one of the standard variants with a V6 engine (up to 2015) or the newer turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain (2016 and onwards).
(See the various Camaro trims comparison later in this post.)
#2 Submarine-Like Visibility
The Camaros have typically suffered from poor outward visibility, trading function and space for style.
Thick windshield pillars, awfully short windows, and massively wide rear pillars severely compromise the views out of the car.
Plus, the high rear shelf further impedes your vision out the back.
Shorter drivers will find it difficult to see over the dashboard, and the Camaro is harder to maneuver and park in tight places.
The forward collision warning and blind spot warning systems are a must-have if you wish to drive a Camaro daily – backup camera is standard in the sixth-generation Camaro (2016 onwards).
#3 All-Wheel-Drive Isn’t an Option
An all-wheel-drive Camaro for added traction isn’t available, unfortunately.
Getting a Camaro is a straightforward decision if you live in a region that enjoys mostly sunny days.
But if you live in snowy climes, you should consider the Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger, as they have an AWD in some select trims.
#4 Limited Headroom, Kids-Only Back Seat
Two factors affect available space in the Camaro’s cockpit, namely the overall vehicle height and the wide center transmission tunnel.
The Camaro stands the shortest among the four muscular competitors, explaining the all-around small windows and compromised outward visibility.
| Car Height | |
| Chevy Camaro | 53.1 inches (1,349 mm) |
| Ford Mustang | 55.6 inches (1,412 mm) |
| Dodge Challenger | 57.7 inches (1,466 mm) |
| Dodge Charger | 57.8 inches (1,468 mm) |
Given this downside, the optional sunroof consumes precious headroom and will exacerbate the issue.
Obviously, headroom is a non-issue if you opt for the convertible body.
The broad transmission tunnel divides the driver and the front passenger, reducing leg and foot room in an otherwise well-positioned tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, shifter, and pedals.
Average-height rear passengers won’t find much space in the back either, especially if the driver has long legs.
#5 Smallest Trunk of All Pony Cars
Coupes and convertibles are some of the worst types of vehicles for storage.
Unfortunately, Camaros also have the smallest cargo capacity in the segment, regardless of the model year.
| Cargo Capacity (seats in place) | |
| Chevy Camaro (convertible) | 7.3 cubic ft. (-0st-2016) 10.2 cubic ft. (pre-2016) |
| Chevy Camaro (coupe) | 9.1 cubic ft. (post-2016) 11.3 cubic ft. (pre-2016) |
| Ford Mustang (coupe) | 13.5 cubic ft. |
| Dodge Challenger (coupe) | 16.2 cubic ft. |
| Dodge Charger (sedan) | 16.5 cubic ft. |
Further, the trunk opening is tiny with a high liftover height.
Cabin storage is equally limited.
But if you can live with this drawback (plus the visibility), the Camaro will reward you every time you drive it.
Chevy Camaro’s Positives as a Daily Driver
#6 Punchy V6 and 4-Cylinder Engines
Enthusiasts daily drive a muscle car for the thrust and exhaust note the engine produces.
But choosing one for everyday livability typically means facing the choice of settling for a standard, less-powerful powertrain with a softer ride.
Fortunately, you don’t have this dilemma with the Camaro.
The SS and supercharged ZL1’s V8s are stout, but even the V6 (up to 2015) and turbocharged inline-4 versions of the Camaro are punchy.
That being said, the latest four-cylinder engine does not deliver the magnificent tone and roar of the V8 race-inspired engine.
#7 Decent Ride Comfort
Ride quality in the Camaro is surprisingly good considering its muscle car credentials.
The base suspension delivers a supple ride with good damping, making it livable for everyday use.
If getting the best-riding Camaro is crucial to you, opt for the Magnetic Ride Control as it provides a remarkably civilized ride over a broader range of surfaces.
The suspension does an admirable job of providing decent compliance over bumps and rough pavements and keeping body motions at bay for a steady ride.
Wind and road noise is minimal, even on highway drives, despite the wide high-performance tires.
Do not expect a Lexus-type plush ride, but the newer Camaros are some of the most comfortable cruisers as far as muscular cars go.
#8 Superb Handling and Cornering Ability
The Camaro shines brightly in how it drives and handles – opposing the traditional notion that muscle cars only go fast in a straight line.
Its cornering grip is sublime, carving the twisty bits of the pavement capably and enthusiastically while keeping body roll to a minimum.
The optional Magnetic Ride Control suspension keeps the car planted through bumpy corners, and braking performance is consistent and reassuringly strong.
Handling feels precise and communicative, particularly with the smaller and lighter engines, but the V8 with stickier summer tires exhibits higher traction limits.
If you live in a wintry region, your Camaro will need winter tires, especially considering the Camaros come only with a rear-wheel-drive system.
#9 Cheapest Maintenance In the Class
Chevrolet Camaros cost an average of $585 annually to maintain, according to RepairPal.
Crucially, it is the least expensive among American muscle cars.
The table below shows how they stack up in the year-to-year annual maintenance costs:
| Year | Annual Costs (Camaro) | Annual Costs (Mustang) | Annual Costs (Charger) | Annual Costs (Challenger) |
| 1 | $255 | $254 | $279 | $313 |
| 2 | $295 | $294 | $323 | $360 |
| 3 | $358 | $359 | $394 | $435 |
| 4 | $459 | $461 | $508 | $555 |
| 5 | $543 | $547 | $602 | $655 |
| 6 | $674 | $682 | $750 | $811 |
| 7 | $942 | $955 | $1,051 | $1,129 |
| 8 | $1,048 | $1,063 | $1,171 | $1,256 |
| 9 | $1,147 | $1,164 | $1,283 | $1,374 |
| 10 | $1,294 | $1,314 | $1,448 | $1,548 |
| 11 | $1,313 | $1,334 | $1,469 | $1,571 |
| 12 | $1,470 | $1,494 | $1,646 | $1,758 |
The probability of major repair logically increases with the Camaro’s age:
- 2.10% in year 1,
- 9.89$ in year 5,
- 20.36% in year 10, and
- 39.23% in year 12.
These probability figures are also the lowest among rivals.
#10 Strong Value Retention
Chevy Camaros retain value remarkably well – on par with the Dodge Challenger but outperform the Ford Mustang and Dodge Charger.
The Camaro depreciates 40% after five years and 62% after a decade.
Let’s see how it compares with other sports cars:
| 5-yr Depreciation | 10-yr Depreciation | |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | 38% | 55% |
| Audi R8 | 40% | 47% |
| Nissan GT-R | 40% | 56% |
| Dodge Challenger | 40% | 61% |
| Chevy Camaro | 40% | 62% |
| Subaru WRX | 40% | 70% |
| Nissan 370z | 42% | 58% |
| Ford Mustang | 43% | 66% |
| Porsche 911 | 45% | 63% |
| Dodge Charger | 48% | 75% |
Non-muscle cars that have higher resale value than the Camaro include:
Best Camaro for Daily Driving: Trims Compared
Table Guide:
- Engine: T=turbo; SC=supercharged.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined.
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | |
| Z28 | 5.7L V8 (1993-2002) 5.0L V8 (1991-1992) | 275-310-hp (1993-2002) 230-hp (1991-1992) | 18-19-mpg (1993-2002) 18-mpg (1991-1992) | Prem-ReQ (2001-2002) Regular (1993-2000) Regular (1991-1992) |
| LS/LT (1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 1LS) | 2.0L i4 T (2016-present) 3.6L V6 (2010-2015) | 275-hp (2016-present) 304-323-hp (2010-2015) | 22-25-mpg (2016-present) 20-22-mpg (2010-2015) | Prem-ReC (2016-present) Regular (2010-2015) |
| Camaro SS | 6.2L V8 (2010-present) | 426-455-hp (2010-present) | 19-mpg (2010-present) | Prem-ReC (2010-present) |
| Camaro ZL1 | 6.2L V8 SC (2012-present) | 650-hp (2017-present) 580-hp (2012-2015) | 16-mpg (2012-present) | Prem-ReQ (2012-present) |
Chevy Camaros are available solely with an RWD drivetrain.
The LS or LT trim is the best Camaro for daily driving if you want the most fuel-efficient model; it is less powerful than the V8s, but the handling feels sharper.
Is the Camaro SS a Good Daily Driver?
This muscle car performs its best with a V8 under the hood.
Suppose you can live with the miserable visibility; the Camaro SS is a thrilling daily driver, the perfect balance between a potent and beautiful-sounding V8 and good ride comfort with the Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
You pay at the pump when driving the V8 every day, but it’s a reasonable price for the joy you gain in return.
Is the Camaro ZL1 a Good Daily Driver?
The ZL1 is the top dog in the Camaro lineup with its supercharged V8.
Doubtlessly, it’s a superb racing machine, but the availability of the SS renders the supercharged Camaro ZL1 less suitable as a daily driver with its abysmal fuel economy.
Plus, all ZL1s require the use of premium fuel.
What About Classic Camaros as Daily Drivers?
Here’s a summary of the Chevrolet Camaro’s generations:
- First generation (1967-1969)
- Second generation (1970-1981)
- Third generation (1982-1992)
- Fourth generation (1993-2002)
- Fifth generation (2010-2015)
- Sixth generation (2016-present)
The 1st generation Camaro (1967, 1968, and 1969) is fun for track racing but a poor daily driver with these cons:
- Fast in a straight line but has an inferior cornering ability.
- Thirsty engines, averaging 8 to 10 mpg combined.
- Expensive classic.
But if you love this legendary car, can accept the meager mpg, and aren’t getting one for track duty, daily driving one of those first-gen Camaros would be cool.
The 2nd generation Camaro looks the most unique of the subsequent three generations, while the 3rd and 4th generation Camaros are comparatively better daily drivers with improved fuel economy over the preceding models.
Still, the sixth-gen Camaros is the best of the lot in terms of driving dynamics, fuel economy, and modern comfort and safety features at an unbeatable price.
It’s hard to argue against opting for the newer Camaros.
Best Chevy Camaro Year for Daily Driving
Table Guide:
- Fuel Economy: mpg city/highway/combined (base trim).
- Reliability: /100; higher = fewer problems (JD Power).
- Safety (IIHS): 1 (poor) to 4 (good); IIHS tests average.
- Safety (NHTSA): 1 (poor) to 5 (safest); NHTSA overall.
- Complaints: total reported problems (CarComplaints).
- Recalls: NHTSA or manufacturer-initiated.
| Model Year | Fuel Econ. | Reliability | Safety (IIHS) | Safety (NHTSA) | Complaints | Recalls |
| 2022 Camaro | 19/29/22 | 82/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | – | |
| 2021 Camaro | 19/29/22 | 82/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 4 | 3 |
| 2020 Camaro | 20/30/23 | 84/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 1 | 2 |
| 2019 Camaro | 20/30/23 | 80/100 | 3.8/4 | NA | – | 1 |
| 2018 Camaro | 22/31/25 | 82/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 6 | 1 |
| 2017 Camaro | 22/31/25 | 79/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 14 | 2 |
| 2016 Camaro | 21/30/24 | 80/100 | 3.8/4 | NA | 12 | 1 |
| 2015 Camaro | 17/28/20 | 81/100 | NA | NA | 31 | 2 |
| 2014 Camaro | 17/28/20 | 83/100 | NA | NA | 57 | 4 |
| 2013 Camaro | 17/28/20 | 83/100 | NA | NA | 68 | 3 |
| 2012 Camaro | 17/28/20 | 84/100 | NA | NA | 27 | 5 |
| 2011 Camaro | 17/28/20 | 85/100 | NA | NA | 29 | 3 |
| 2010 Camaro | 17/29/21 | 87/100 | NA | NA | 100 | 3 |
The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is probably the worst Camaro with the most overall complaints, and understandably so, it being the first model of the fifth generation.
Those complaints include engine problems (premature timing chain wear; engine dies while driving) and airbag issues (airbag lights keep coming on).
Note that V6 Camaros are the base model up to 2015, after which the turbocharged four-cylinder engine became the standard trim.
The V6 Camaros with manual transmission return considerably less mpg than the newer and smaller turbo i4s.
If you aren’t after a V8 Camaro, opt for one of the standard Camaros with a turbocharged inline-four engine from 2016 onwards for the best fuel economy and daily ride comfort.
Alternatively, the fourth-gen Camaros up to 2002 are comparatively more reliable than the fifth-gen lineup.
Chevy Camaro Comparison with Other Vehicles
Chevy Camaro vs. Ford Mustang as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Chevy Camaro | 2.0L i4 T (2016-present) 3.6L V6 (2010-2015) | 275-323-hp | 20-25-mpg | Prem-ReC (2016-present) Regular (2010-2015) | $585 | Poor | Average |
| Ford Mustang | 2.3L-i4-T (2015-present) 3.7L-4.0L-V6 (1994-2017) | 210-310-hp | 20-26-mpg | Prem-ReC (2015-present) Regular (1994-2017) | $709 | Average | Average |
The turbocharged four-cylinder Mustang (EcoBoost) debuted in 2015, while the Camaro’s version of the turbo engine came out the year after.
Both are comparable in power output and fuel consumption.
Comparing the standard trims, the Ford Mustang is a better daily driver than the Chevy Camaro, with marginally better ride quality and improved visibility that aids ease of driving.
Chevy Camaro vs. Chevy Corvette as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Chevy Camaro | 2.0L i4 T (2016-present) 3.6L V6 (2010-2015) | 275-323-hp | 20-25-mpg | Prem-ReC (2016-present) Regular (2010-2015) | $585 | Poor | Average |
| Chevy Corvette | 5.7L-6.2L-V8 | 245-490-hp | 17-21-mpg | Prem-ReC (2009-present) Prem-ReQ (2003-2008) Regular (up to 2002) | $737 | Average | Good |
Camaro vs. Corvette is a muscle car vs. sports car competition – the latter, in its standard trim, is twice the price of the former.
Although the Corvette boasts superior engine and cornering performance, it outperforms the Camaro as the more comfortable daily driver.
The Corvette’s bigger engine in the base form is thirstier than the Camaro, but the newer Corvette is one of the most comfortable cars in its class.
Chevy Camaro vs. Nissan 350Z vs. 370Z as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Chevy Camaro | 2.0L i4 T (2016-present) 3.6L V6 (2010-2015) | 275-323-hp | 20-25-mpg | Prem-ReC (2016-present) Regular (2010-2015) | $585 | Poor | Average |
| Nissan 350Z | 3.5L-V6 | 287-306-hp | 19-20-mpg | Prem-ReC (2007-2009) Prem-ReQ (2003-2006) | $452 | Poor | Poor |
| Nissan 370Z | 3.7L-V6 | 332-hp | 20-22-mpg | Prem-ReQ (2010-2020) Prem-ReC (2009) | $504 | Poor | Poor |
All three provide similarly poor visibility, a considerable drawback for an everyday car.
That said, the Nissan 370Z beats its predecessor, the 350Z, in almost every aspect, making it the more appropriate car to compare to the Camaro.
The Camaro is a better daily driver than the 350Z and 370Z, especially with its latest iteration of the smaller but turbocharged powertrain, delivering a stronger fuel economy.
Chevy Camaro vs. Other Daily Drivers
Table Guide:
- Horsepower: base trim.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Safety (IIHS): 1 (poor) to 4 (good); IIHS tests average.
- Safety (NHTSA): 1 (poor) to 5 (safest); NHTSA overall.
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Maint. Costs | Safety (IIHS) | Safety (NHTSA) | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Audi R8 | 420-562-hp | 17 | $1,123 | NA | NA | Average | Average |
| Nissan GT-R | 480-565-hp | 19 | $920 | NA | NA | Average | Average |
| Chevy Corvette | 245-490 hp | 19 | $737 | NA | NA | Average | Good |
| Porsche 911 | 247-379-hp | 23 | $1,072 | NA | NA | Good | Good |
| Nissan 370z | 332 hp | 22 | $504 | NA | NA | Poor | Poor |
| Ford Focus RS | 350-hp | 22 | $569+ | NA | 5/5 | Good | Poor |
| Chevy Camaro | 275-323-hp | 22 | $585 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | Poor | Average |
| Dodge Challenger | 250-305 hp | 23 | $650 | 3.2/4 | 5/5 | Poor | Average |
| Dodge Charger | 178-300 hp | 23 | $652 | 3.6/4 | 5/5 | Average | Average |
| Subaru WRX | 230-271-hp | 23 | $682 | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Average |
| Subaru BRZ | 205-228-hp | 24 | $672 | 3.8/4 | NA | Good | Average |
| Ford Mustang | 145-310 hp | 24 | $709 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | Average | Average |
| VW Golf R | 288-315-hp | 24 | $903 | NA | NA | Good | Good |
| VW Golf GTI | 210-228-hp | 27 | $791 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
| Mazda Miata | 116-181-hp | 29 | $429 | NA | NA | Average | Average |
| Honda-Civic-Type-R | 306-hp | 25 | $368+ | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
| Honda Civic Si | 197-205-hp | 30 | $368+ | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
| Honda Civic | 110-158-hp | 33 | $368 | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
When you’re on the market for a muscle car, the Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger will inevitably join the Camaro on your shortlist.
The Mustang is probably one of the best muscle coupes, while the Charger is the roomiest.
If a high-performance daily driver outside the pony car segment is an option, these entry-level sports and sporty cars will appeal:
- Subaru WRX – all-wheel-drive is standard and the more suitable everyday car for wintry regions.
- Subaru BRZ – fun, balanced, and forgiving handling; has better visibility than the muscle cars.
- Volkswagen Golf R – a hot hatch with superior interior space that meets your practical needs.
As the Camaro has a tiny back seat that is essentially useless, the two-seater Mazda MX-5 Miata is a compelling option worth considering.
The Miata is one of the most fuel-efficient sports cars yet is incredibly fun to drive.
There’re reasons why the Miata is the best-selling two-seater sports car in history, so you should test-drive one to find out.
If low running costs are a priority in your high-performance daily driver, opt for the Honda Civic Type R or Civic Si.
They may not be thoroughbred sports or muscle cars, but their handling is sharp and responsive, with a ride quality that expertly balances athleticism and comfort.
A regular Honda Civic is one of the best everyday cars – but if you need those extra horses for performance driving, the Civic Si and Type R fulfill that requirement.
References:
https://www.chevrolet.com/performance/camaro
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2022/CHEVROLET/CAMARO%252520SS/2%252520DR/RWD
https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/chevrolet/camaro-2-door-coupe/2022
https://repairpal.com/reliability/chevrolet/camaro
https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2022_Chevrolet_Camaro.shtml
