The 2012 Camaro ZL1: What the critics say

The New York Times

Anyone who thinks the new ZL1 is simply a Camaro with a supercharger underestimates Chevy’s ambitions. The automaker has gone to extraordinary lengths to give this “über-Camaro” the road manners of a “blue-ribbon” sport coupe and the racetrack agility of a near-Porsche. The styling may be “as subtle as an anvil falling from the sky,” but drivers who can appreciate the car’s abilities won’t care. “Nothing else with a backseat can approach the ZL1’s thundering performance.”

Autoweek

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Raw power is standard fare for muscle cars, but engineering sophistication sets the 580-hp ZL1 apart. Upgrades beyond the Camaro SS include a five-mode traction-control system, a fast-reacting “magnetic ride” suspension, and a launch-control system to smooth power takeoffs. The seats are a bit soft, and hardtop occupants get a “hunkered-in, pillbox view.” Still, this ZL1 checks in as “the ultimate factory Camaro—now and probably ever.”

WSJ.com

Those who make the ZL1 an everyday ride will be pleased to discover that it offers such creature comforts as full climate control and a backup camera that helps make up for “rather poor” rear visibility. “If you have the money and always wanted a Hot Wheels car for the road,” this could be it.