2020 Chevy Camaro 2SS: Brutal, Classy Street Performance
10-speeds, Loads of Efficiency
I’m a manual transmission enthusiast, not a purist. And though I obviously prefer a third pedal as opposed to a computer shifting gears for me, today’s automatics are incredibly more efficient than in the past. So I can’t, in my right mind, fully argue against the 10L80 or any shiftable autos these days. From tip-in to wide open throttle, it’s quick, deadly-precise and very smooth within the powerband. Does it still jump around the gears? Here and there, but not nearly as much as the eight-speed Hydra-Matic 8L90.
Also, since the transmission is different, the gearing and tuning are naturally different. In fact, there is a 7.39 spread across all forward gears compared to 6.99 in the ’16-’18 Camaro SS’ 8L90. As a result, having two extra gears reduces the ratio steps, and higher gears help save gas at highway speeds even more than before. First gear is more aggressive at 4.70 (despite the car having a 2.77 rear axle) and it shows from a launch. For more info on the 10L80 trans, visit here.
From a Dig with the Camaro
Now that we’re on the subject, this car launches smoothly from a dig even though it uses the same rear end gears as the 2016 and up models. Even with the rather mediocre Goodyear F1 Eagles, it actually grips with Stabilitrak Competitive Mode on (ESC in this case). For those unfamiliar, launching the car requires putting the car in Sport or Track mode, then pushing the traction control button twice to get into “Competitive Mode.” From there, the ECU backs off power restriction to the rear wheels.
With this particular car, you don’t have as much tire spin as previous sixth-gen models, but I suspect this has more to do with the optional lower suspension rather than improved ECU function.
Handling
Shockingly, this 2SS is completely devoid of MagneRide ($1,695), yet handles with surgical precision around tight bends. With high intensity turns, this Camaro holds its composure well, thanks to expertly-tuned electronic steering, lowered suspension ($1,970) and stiffer sway bars ($805). This is the part where I’d like to say the 1LE wing ($5,495) also played a huge part in keeping the car planted. While it’s certainly true it aids in effective aero along with the ground effects package ($2,250), I feel the stiffness of the Alpha chassis takes the spotlight here instead.
In my own daily driving experience, my SS has always remained flat around corners. I have a wickerbill on the trunk now, but the car’s equilibrium was strong even with the stock spoiler.
Acceleration
Throttle mapping seems improved. Tip-in while in any of the driving modes requires less effort, and wide-open throttle is much more responsive. But again, I don’t have a stock ’19 model to compare it to so I’m not entirely sure if this is an improvement or if it is because of factory upgrades (this car has a cold air intake).
Nonetheless, this Camaro SS is markedly more precise on gearshifts, stays in gear longer, and gives you consistent torque all throughout the powerband.
Camaro 2SS Braking
What’s interesting about the six-piston Brembo upgrade ($3645) is that I fully expected them to bite like an angry tiger with a simple tap of the pedal. Not the case here. In fact, braking feels just as calm and natural as the four-piston variants. It’s surprising to me, primarily because even the brakes on the ZL1 don’t feel this smooth.
Granted, I’m only doing city and highway driving, but it would be intriguing to see how far I can push this car on a track compared to a 1LE.
Final Verdict
Between the amenities, improved front fascia and overall better handling, I’d say a 2020 Camaro 2SS optioned in this configuration is awesome. However, I can’t ignore the final price here, which comes out to be $63,430 ($42,000 + $20,425 in options). That’s a lot of money, even for as much car as you’re getting.
If I had my way with it, I’d delete most of the cosmetic add-ons (I’d keep the gorgeous Adrenaline Red interior, though), and keep the Brembos, strut tower brace, cold air intake, NPP exhaust, and suspension. The aero, while nice, I’d drop because I already have these things as spares. So my price would be $52,440 (base price + $10,445 in options).
What do you all think? How would you option your SS? Let us know in the forums.
Photos & Video for LS1Tech by Derin Richardson
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