2019 Camaro SS 1LE vs. 2018 Camaro SS 1LE: Photo Comparison
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As you may should have already heard, the 2019 Camaro SS is in for a refresh that brings with it all kinds of changes, including new front end styling, a revised rear fascia, the new GM 10-speed transmission, and new technologies such as the Rear Camera Mirror, third-generation Chevy infotainment systems, Forward Collision Alert and revised ambient lighting with new blended color choices. But what a by-stander will notice first about the updated 2019 Camaro, however, are the freshened looks – which also extend to models with the 1LE track handling package.
We just managed to get our hands on exclusive pictures of the 2019 Camaro SS 1LE sitting right next to its pre-facelift twin – the 2018 Camaro SS 1LE, and are bringing them to you hear for a direct side-by-side comparison. There’s a poll at the very end of the article for you to vote for which one you like best.
2018 Camaro SS 1LE (left) and 2019 Camaro SS 1LE (right)
The new front end styling of the 2019 Camaro is noticeably different from the original sixth-gen model, featuring a new front, grille, dual-element headlamps, LED signature lighting and a new “flowtie” open bowtie grille emblem. Notice that the black elements feature a polished black finish, along with aero-enhancing air curtains.
2019 Camaro SS 1LE (far) and 2018 Camaro SS 1LE (close)
The hood of the 2019 Camaro SS 1LE continues to feature an extractor-style hood, but it looks quite different now, with a single transverse extractor replacing the dual longitudinal units of the 2017-2018 models.
2019 Camaro SS 1LE (close) and 2018 Camaro SS 1LE (far)
Look closely enough at the rear bumper cover, and you’ll see the new rear fascia of the updated model as well as sculpted LED taillamps with dark-tinted neutral-density (clear) lenses. Notably, these are exclusive to V8-powered Camaros for the 2019 model year (as LS and LT models get taillamps with red lenses).
2019 Camaro SS 1LE (left) and 2018 Camaro SS 1LE (right)
So, which one do you like best – the new and refreshed 2019 Camaro, or the original 2017-2018 model? Vote in the poll below and sound off in the comments.
Pricing
Some models of the 2019 Camaro will cost less than their 2018 counterparts. In fact, the base Camaro will cost $905 less when it goes on sale later this year. Unfortunately, V8-powered SS models will not become more affordable, as pricing will remain similar to that of the 2018 model.
Assembly
The 2019 Camaro is assembled by GM USA at the GM Lansing Grand River factory in Michigan.
Availability
The 2019 Camaro SS follows the regular GM model year rollover sequence and launches in the third quarter of the 2018 calendar year.
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I’m not a Camaro guy but let’s take a look at this from a functionality standpoint. The 19′ has the extractor exactly where it is more functional which is in the center at the front. The hood is more sculpted and appears to be lower on each side of the center bulge for better visibility.
The 18′ has large fake brake air ducts which are ubiquitous on every want to be boy racer out there including every Honda Civic. Instead the 19′ has functional air curtains which actually are proven to make a difference in aerodynamics. Every “real” sports car out there are adding this feature to their new models.
In terms of aesthetics, well that’s purely in the eye of the beholder. But speaking for myself, I will take functional over appearance every time on a true performance vehicle. Again, not a Camaro guy but do think the 19′ looks fine. The 18′ is just more traditional or common with what has been done in the past.
I dislike both. The prior gen had a larger face, more space to work with. 2018 looks all crammed in but the Dodge-like black out is a homely bore, too.
Camaro needs a major overhall for next gen. Mustang is more of a “world” car, Challenger is retro Americana but Camaro is just blah.
I’d love to see a modern take on the 1970s/80s take on Camaro if not something totally unique and fresh that will appeal to more than Boomers. Camaro needs a design for millennials.
Une voiture sport devrait être plus sobre en apparence. Il y a trop de détails sur la 2019. GM devrait tourner autour de l’apparence de la première génération, celle qui est l’origine de son histoire. A sports car should be more restrained in appearance. There are too many details on 2019. GM should turn around the appearance of the first generation, which is the origin of its history.
I like the 2019. More modern looking. Has similarities to the ZL1. Love the rear taillights. Front LED ok. Same complaints thought. Visability,Visability,Visability. Two piece drive shaft? Still the 1-4 gas saver shift. Rear differential could be stronger. Appreciation still poor. But on a high note. Love the SS 1LE, best bang for the buck out there in its category. I plan to purchase one this April 2019.
Both SS 1LE designs look great, the only thing that I hate that I think is out of place, is the chrome Chevy emblem on top of the black bumper, it should go on the grille, looks out of place, it would be the first thing I removed if I purchase one. The hood vinyl is not for everyone.
Besides that the 6th. gen Camaro SS1LE is the best performance car for the $, very close in performance to the Corvette Stingray Z51. The SS1LE and the stronger ZL1 would give shivers to most euro exotic sport cars like Porsche, BMW Ms, Audi R8, Nissan GTR, etc.
Time always moves forward. Nostalgia is fondly looked back upon. The future is always what one makes it. As with any new car, the 2019 Camaro SS 1LE is a blank canvas for any new owner. Just as the previous generations were.
I like the front of the ’20-’22 Camaro and the rear of the ’16-’18 Camaro.