With a wide array of variants, 2015 Chevrolet Camaro buyers have plenty of trim levels to choose from. There's the V6 base models, the V8 SS, the ZL1 and the hardcore, track-oriented Z/28. We were pretty excited when we found out we would be test-driving the V8-powered Chevrolet Camaro SS for a week, but imagine the look on our faces when we found out it was going to come with the 1LE package!
Of course, we love the everyday sports car nature of the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS; however, if you want something that's track-oriented yet road legal you can equip your Camaro SS with the 1LE package. While the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS leaves the factory with more than enough power for the track, the available 1LE package makes it even more of a track beast.
For a total of $3,500, you can transform your regular Camaro SS into a fine-tuned handling machine. By the way, for you history buffs, this isn't the first time we've seen the 1LE package. The package was introduced in 1988 and was inspired by Camaro's involvement in Pro-Am road racing.
Exterior
The Chevrolet Camaro lineup received a range of exterior upgrades last year. The front-end was slightly redesigned with a narrower area for the grill and headlamps, while the intakes were enlarged slightly. The rear end of the Camaro lineup received the most visible change with a new LED taillights.
Being based on the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS, the 1LE package offers menacing looks that differentiate it from the standard Camaro. The most striking design change of the 1LE package is a matte black hood. Other additions to the exterior that set the 1LE package apart from the standard 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS are the front splitter, rear spoiler and a set of 10-spoke alloy wheels. Now all these extras aren't just added eye candy. For example, the front splitter and rear spoiler help reduce aerodynamic lift at high speeds, thus enhancing the car's on-track capabilities.
Interior
The interior of the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS is a sporty yet comfortable place to be. Our Camaro SS with the optional 1LE package, gave the Camaro SS the look of the top-of-the-line 2015 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Inspired by this model, the interior of the Camaro SS 1LE includes features like the ZL1's flat-bottom steering wheel and microfiber suede trim on the dash, steering wheel and shift knob.
Unlike the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, which is stripped of much of its technology and gadgets to reduce weight for optimal track performance, the Camaro SS 1LE keeps all of its gizmos in tack. Of course, right in the center of the interior you are welcomed by Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, which houses everything from your navigation screen to audio information, plus other important vehicle information and Chevrolet MyLink Apps.
Performance
Power for the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS comes from a 6.2-liter V8 engine that pushes out 426 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Our Camaro SS 1LE came exclusively with the Tremec TR6060-MM6 6-speed manual transmission; however, the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS can also be had with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS can run from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 156 mph (electronically limited). A standing quarter-mile run is achieved in the 12- to 13-second range with a trap speed around 111 mph.
What makes our 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS with the 1LE package so special? Like the ZL1, the 1LE's transmission comes standard with an air-to-liquid cooling system for track use. Other exclusive 1LE features include monotube rear dampers instead of the twin-tube dampers on 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS models. The addition helps the 1LE's suspension control body motion during more spirited driving. There's also a larger 27 mm solid front stabilizer bar and a 28 mm solid rear stabilizer bar for improved body control. For better steering feel, Chevrolet engineers have added a strut tower brace and ZL1 wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts for improved performance.
Overall
The V8-powered 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS starts at $34,500. Add on the 1LE package as found on our test car and that MSRP jumps to $38,000.
Of course, if you want extreme track performance then the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 is your best bet. But if you're looking for a track performer on a budget, then we highly recommend checking out the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS with the 1LE package.
Photos by Omar Rana
