The new 2012 Camaro might get a few extra horses under the bonnet if what Camaro5 reports is true. The new horsepower will find its way into the V6 powerplant for the sports coupe version. The new engine, badged “LFX”, looks like a significant improvement over the already powerful LLT V6 found in LS and LT Camaros.
The mill is described as “LFX 3.6L SIDI, DOHC, VVT, E85 MAX, Alum GM”, so it should still displace only 3.6-liters, just like the current V6 Camaro. It’s not yet clear if this is the standard model or some kind of high-performance race car for the road, but we like the figures either way. It even comes packed with advanced features, like Spark-Ignition Direct-Injection, Dual Overhead Cams, Variable Valve Timing, and E85 capability. Read more!
According to the aforementioned source, the V6 could build on several innovations made for the 3.0L LF1 V6 found in vehicles like the Cadillac CTS, SRX, and Chevy Equinox. The innovations consist of composite intake manifold, integrated exhaust manifolds and optimized NVH/airflow treatments. This could bring the total horsepower to around 325-330 hp when used in the Camaro.
Having first introduced the new Camaro with a 304-hp V6 engine, Chevy bumped that number up to 312 ponies for the 2011 model in order to keep the pace with the Mustang. The 2012 mode will also have a “substantially reworked interior.” The carmaker is also planning to reintroduce the Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 by then. It is rumored to offer the same 6.2-liter LSA used in the Cadillac CTS-V with about 550 horsepower.