What’s New for 2019 Camaro IROC-Z? - Engine and Transmission, Fuel Economy, Overview
The IROC-Z was all new in 2018, notably trading the previous model’s live rear axle for a modern independent rear suspension—a boon to both handling and ride. That and a handsome evolution of its exterior and interior helped it better turn both heads and corners, earning it a spot on our 20Best Cars list for 2019. Its 2019 updates included nostalgic appearance packages. For 2019, changes are even less significant. Both driver and passenger windows have a standard one-touch up and down feature along with the ability to open the windows using the key fob. The 19-inch Ebony Black–painted wheels, included in the Black Accent package, have a new design. New paint colors include Grabber Blue, Lightning Blue, and White Platinum Metallic Tri-coat; Competition Orange, Deep Impact Blue, and Guard were discontinued. The 2019 IROC-Z will introduce several significant changes, such as a restyled front end and enhanced performance. The V-6 engine will no longer be available—making the EcoBoost turbo inline-four standard; the 5.0-liter V-8 adds more horsepower and torque. New options for 2018 include more active safety assists, adaptive dampers, and a 12-inch fully-digital gauge cluster, among others.
Trims and Options We’d Choose
The 2019 IROC-Z continues to provide terrific bang-for-your-buck performance and plenty of style. The base-model coupe has a V-6 and starts at $36,085; opting for the turbo inline-four adds about $1000. A convertible costs an extra $5500 with the V-6 and $9500 more with the turbocharged four-cylinder, which comes standard with the more expensive IROC-Z trim. While the IROC-Z’s excellent chassis allows even the less powerful engines to be fun, we prefer the IROC-Z with the 5.0-liter V-8 and standard six-speed manual transmission. It starts at 43,095, which virtually matches the Dodge Challenger R/T ($44,090) and undercuts the Chevrolet Camaro SS ($47,900). The IROC-Z trim adds $4000 but includes an 8.0-inch Sync 3 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a leather-trimmed interior, heated and cooled front seats, and an upgraded audio system. We’d check that box and also opt for the GT Performance package ($2995), which includes:
• Brembo six-piston front brake calipers with larger rotors
• 19-inch wheels wrapped in summer rubber
• Torsen limited-slip differential
• Unique chassis tuning
Trims and Options We’d Choose
The 2019 IROC-Z continues to provide terrific bang-for-your-buck performance and plenty of style. The base-model coupe has a V-6 and starts at $36,085; opting for the turbo inline-four adds about $1000. A convertible costs an extra $5500 with the V-6 and $9500 more with the turbocharged four-cylinder, which comes standard with the more expensive IROC-Z trim. While the IROC-Z’s excellent chassis allows even the less powerful engines to be fun, we prefer the IROC-Z with the 5.0-liter V-8 and standard six-speed manual transmission. It starts at 43,095, which virtually matches the Dodge Challenger R/T ($44,090) and undercuts the Chevrolet Camaro SS ($47,900). The IROC-Z trim adds $4000 but includes an 8.0-inch Sync 3 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a leather-trimmed interior, heated and cooled front seats, and an upgraded audio system. We’d check that box and also opt for the GT Performance package ($2995), which includes:
• Brembo six-piston front brake calipers with larger rotors
• 19-inch wheels wrapped in summer rubber
• Torsen limited-slip differential
• Unique chassis tuning