Camaro LS: 2011 vs 2012

[CSM088]

Hey C5,

So I'm getting a Camaro LS. I'm looking at one of two options right now:

2011 LS in the colour I want (CGM) available NOW
2012 LS, potentially unavailable in CGM (I'm in Canada), in a few months time

I expect I could get the 2011 for a few bucks cheaper, but that's not really a concern since I should be getting a good price on the new one too (I know a guy).

What I'd like to talk about are the changes between the models, and if its worth the wait. The cosmetic changes are nice, except the new steering wheel which is not as sporty looking. It also comes with Bluetooth and Rear Lip spoiler.

But the main thing I want to discuss is the LFX engine vs. the LLT engine. I feel like we still don't really know much about this new engine. I have read quite a bit about it on this site, and it seems like we're not sure how things are gonna go with the tuning and performance upgrades. I'm not too keen on doing any performance upgrades that void warranty, but I think it will affect the resale value down the road if the LFX turns out to be a bit of a lemon in that respect, or if it turns out that its got a lot of potential and everyone can easily put a couple turbos on it and blast off to Mars.

So, what do you think? Is the LFX engine going to be worth waiting for the 2012 model, and having to pay extra for it while the outgoing year is still available at a discount? Will there be nice sounding exhaust options available in the aftermarket for this engine? I heard this thing purrs really smoothly. I like the idea of driving an engine that just loves flying through the RPM's.

[Archontruth]

For the LS trim, I'd say the difference is minimal. The question you have to ask yourself is if the higher price you'd pay for the 2012 LS is worth it to get the spoiler, RS taillights and the slightly more powerful engine.

If you intend to resell it as some point, I'd say get the 2012.

Ordering in the LT trim, I waited for 2012 because I wanted the rearview camera (my baby has a big ass, and I stink at driving in reverse).

[CSM088]

Thanks Archon. I didn't know the 1LT was coming with the rearview camera. Thats convenient. I'd love an LT/RS but the extra cost is better put towards moving out of my parents house... lol. I'm on budget here but gotta have a Camaro!

So does anyone have any thing to add about the LFX? Is it going to be just as or more moddable than the LLT? And will the MRT 2.0 exhaust still sound great, when you cant install the headers on the car anymore.

[STYLE66]

It's a ls does it really matter the will both drive and look the same. Only diffents is one is a 2011 and one is a 2012 I guess money is a problem for you just get the 2011 and use the rest for gas or your first mod.

[MY2012RS]

I would go with the 2012. Some of the Mods should fit with no issue..If you want to swap out the exhaust it won't be a problem as long as you just go cat back or axle back it's still basically the same as 2011...you just can't get replace the headers.

[jasonsk287]

Originally Posted by CSM088

Thanks Archon. I didn't know the 1LT was coming with the rearview camera. Thats convenient. I'd love an LT/RS but the extra cost is better put towards moving out of my parents house... lol. I'm on budget here but gotta have a Camaro!

So does anyone have any thing to add about the LFX? Is it going to be just as or more moddable than the LLT? And will the MRT 2.0 exhaust still sound great, when you cant install the headers on the car anymore.

The 1LT doesn't come with the rearview camera. It's optional. About $600 gets you that and the rear parking sensors. They're only standard on 2LT/2SS.

[CSM088]

Originally Posted by Comrando

If you want the CGM you will have to stay with the '11.

Since you are tight for $ will you really buy headers?

What color would you buy in a '12?

Was CGM discontinued in Canada for 2012? News to me.
My colour choice is between CGM and IOM.

Headers might get thrown on in a few years depending on my financial situation. I won't always be strapped for cash, its just that I'm only graduating from school in December this year. Headers and MRT's would be a sick upgrade in my opinion. This mod really adds to the car.

[CSM088]

Still hoping to hear more opinions on the LLT vs. LFX engine matchup. Thanks

[Archontruth]

Originally Posted by jasonsk287

The 1LT doesn't come with the rearview camera. It's optional. About $600 gets you that and the rear parking sensors. They're only standard on 2LT/2SS.

True. What I was saying was that the Rearview Camera (and the Connectivity Package) aren't even available as options for the LS, only the LT and SS. If they were, I would have gotten an LS.