2010–2015 Chevrolet Camaro RS (5th Gen) — Complete Guide
Historical Context and Development Background
Chevrolet’s fifth-generation Camaro arrived as a clean-sheet reboot of an American icon, developed on GM’s Zeta architecture that also underpinned the contemporary Holden Commodore. Previewed by the 2006 concept car, the production model retained the show car’s crisp proportions and retro-inflected surfacing, with design leadership credits to Tom Peters and SangYup Lee under VP of Global Design Ed Welburn. Production began for the 2010 model year at Oshawa Assembly in Ontario, a plant noted for high build quality.
The RS designation returned as a styling-centric package, echoing the 1967–1969 RS option that emphasized appearance rather than outright performance. On the fifth-gen, RS layers in high-intensity discharge headlamps with LED halo rings, 20-inch wheels, specific spoilers and trim, and RS badging. The package could be specified on V6 LT models (1LT/2LT) and on the V8 SS (1SS/2SS), where it served as a visual upgrade atop the mechanicals of the chosen trim.
Motorsport visibility for the fifth-gen Camaro spanned several arenas. Camaro bodies appeared in NASCAR’s then-Nationwide Series, while privateer teams campaigned Camaro GS.R variants in the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge. Though the RS package itself was not a competition specification, the halo-ring headlamps and aggressive stance became the showroom signature that bled into the Camaro’s broader cultural cachet, amplified by blockbuster film appearances that cemented the shape in the public consciousness.
The competitive set evolved rapidly across the RS’s run. Ford’s 2011 Mustang V6 arrived with 305 hp and less mass, while Dodge’s Challenger prioritized space and highway composure over agility. The Camaro staked out the middle ground: a more rigid structure and a broader performance envelope than the Challenger, with a chassis that—particularly after the SS’s FE4 suspension update for 2012—rewarded committed driving.
Engine and Technical Specifications
RS content does not change the underlying powertrain. LT models carry GM’s high-feature 3.6-liter direct-injected V6 (LLT, later LFX), and SS models retain the 6.2-liter small-block V8 in either LS3 (manual) or L99 (automatic) form. Key technical data below:
| Engine (Years) | Configuration | Displacement | Horsepower (SAE net) | Induction | Redline | Fuel System | Compression | Bore x Stroke |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L V6 LLT (2010–2011) | DOHC 24V V6 | 3,564 cc | 304 hp (2010); 312 hp (2011) | Naturally aspirated | 7,000 rpm | SIDI direct injection | 11.3:1 | 94.0 mm x 85.6 mm (3.70 x 3.37 in) |
| 3.6L V6 LFX (2012–2015) | DOHC 24V V6 | 3,564 cc | 323 hp | Naturally aspirated | 7,200 rpm | SIDI direct injection | 11.5:1 | 94.0 mm x 85.6 mm (3.70 x 3.37 in) |
| 6.2L V8 L99 (SS auto, 2010–2015) | OHV 16V V8 (AFM) | 6,162 cc | 400 hp | Naturally aspirated | 6,000 rpm (fuel cutoff) | Sequential multi-port injection | 10.4:1 | 103.25 mm x 92.0 mm (4.065 x 3.62 in) |
| 6.2L V8 LS3 (SS manual, 2010–2015) | OHV 16V V8 | 6,162 cc | 426 hp | Naturally aspirated | 6,600 rpm | Sequential multi-port injection | 10.7:1 | 103.25 mm x 92.0 mm (4.065 x 3.62 in) |
What the RS Package Includes
Content varies slightly by year and underlying trim, but core RS cues include:
- HID headlamps with LED halo rings; revised lens and LED signature for 2014–2015 facelift.
- 20-inch wheels (Midnight Silver finish on early years; various machined/painted designs later) and performance tires.
- Body-color roof ditch moldings (coupe) and specific spoilers.
- RS badging; darker tail lamps on early cars; unique rear fascia and lamp design after the 2014 update.
Driving Experience and Handling Dynamics
In V6 guise, an RS-equipped LT sheds meaningful mass versus an SS, making the nose feel keener on turn-in. The direct-injected 3.6 is smooth and rev-happy, with the later LFX iteration adding a crisper top-end and a broader powerband. The Aisin AY6 six-speed manual in V6 cars has a long but accurate throw; the 6L50 automatic is competent and unobtrusive, with TAPshift control for manual overrides.
SS models with the RS package inherit the big small-block character: the LS3 six-speed manual pairing is the enthusiast’s choice for response and durability, while the L99 auto uses the stouter 6L80 with tall gearing and cylinder deactivation (AFM) for relaxed cruising. Throttle response is immediate in the LS3; the L99’s mapping is softer off-idle and upshifts earlier in default modes.
Chassis behavior is honest and predictable. Early SS cars used FE3 tuning; for 2012 and later, the SS switched to the FE4 rear setup with re-valved dampers, different rear links, and wheel/tire width changes that markedly improved rear-end composure over mid-corner bumps. V6 models on FE2 remain supple and less tail-happy. Steering feel is hydraulic and weighty; the front-end carries its mass, but grip is generous on the 20-inch Pirellis. The RS package itself doesn’t stiffen the springs, but lower-profile tires on wider wheels sharpen initial response and look the part.
Performance Specifications
| Model | 0–60 mph | Quarter-Mile | Top Speed | Curb Weight | Layout | Brakes | Suspension | Gearbox |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LT RS (V6, 2010–2015) | ~5.9–6.2 s (typical magazine tests) | ~14.3–14.8 s @ ~97–100 mph | ~149 mph (governed) | ~3,750–3,825 lb (coupe) | Front-engine, RWD | Vented discs; single-piston sliding calipers | FE2 tuning: strut front; independent multi-link rear | 6-spd manual (Aisin AY6) or 6-spd auto (Hydra-Matic 6L50) |
| SS RS (V8, 2010–2015) | ~4.6–4.9 s (typical magazine tests) | ~12.9–13.2 s @ ~109–112 mph | ~155 mph (limited) | ~3,860–3,920 lb (coupe) | Front-engine, RWD | Brembo 4-piston fixed calipers; large ventilated rotors | FE3 (2010–2011) / FE4 (2012–2015) SS tuning | 6-spd manual (Tremec TR-6060) or 6-spd auto (Hydra-Matic 6L80) |
Variant and Package Breakdown
The RS is an option package layered onto LT and SS trims. Special editions frequently bundled RS content as standard.
| Variant / Edition | Years | Base Trim | Key Differences | Production Numbers | Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1LT RS / 2LT RS | 2010–2015 | LT (V6) | HID halo headlamps, 20-in wheels/tires, rear spoiler, RS badging; later cars with facelift lamps | Not separately published | Primarily North America; select export |
| 1SS RS / 2SS RS | 2010–2015 | SS (V8) | As above; retains Brembos, 6.2L V8 (LS3/L99), SS chassis tuning | Not separately published | Primarily North America; select export |
| 45th Anniversary Edition | 2012 | 2LT or 2SS (RS content standard) | Carbon Flash Metallic, unique 20-in wheels, special stripes/badges, interior accents | Not officially disclosed | North America |
| Transformers Special Edition | 2010; 2012 | LT/SS (bundled with RS) | Rally Yellow with graphics, Autobot shields, unique trim | Not officially disclosed | North America; select export |
| Hot Wheels Edition | 2013 | 2LT or 2SS (RS content standard) | Kinetic Blue, red-outline grille, unique 21-in wheels, Hot Wheels badging | Not officially disclosed | North America |
| Dusk Edition | 2013 | 2LT or 2SS (RS content standard) | Blue Ray Metallic, 21-in wheels, unique ground effects, Mojave interior | Not officially disclosed | North America |
Note: RS package pricing varied by year and trim; early-model guidance placed it as a mid-four-figure option on LT and a lower-cost visual add-on on SS. Official production counts for RS-package cars have not been published separately from overall Camaro totals.
Ownership Notes: Maintenance, Parts, and Living With an RS
- Service intervals: The engines use GM’s Oil Life Monitoring; follow it with dexos-approved oil. Coolant is long-life Dex-Cool. Manual transmissions and differentials benefit from periodic fluid changes, especially if driven hard.
- Known issues (V6): Early LLT 3.6s can experience timing chain stretch when subjected to long oil-change intervals; GM released updated calibrations and parts. The later LFX reduced such concerns and added integrated exhaust manifolds for durability and weight savings.
- Known issues (V8): The L99’s Active Fuel Management lifters can be failure-prone in some cases, manifesting as lifter tick/misfire; repairs typically involve lifters (and sometimes cam) replacement. The LS3 is generally robust when maintained.
- Chassis/ancillaries: Occasional rear differential whine, front-end link/bushing wear on high-mileage cars, and wheel-speed sensor/ABS wiring chafe have been reported. Convertible tops require careful adjustment and maintenance.
- Brakes and tires: SS cars use Brembo hardware with readily available pads/rotors; RS wheels typically carry Pirelli summer tires that age out; square 20-inch setups (on V6) are less costly than staggered SS fitments.
- Parts support: GM OE parts and a deep aftermarket make upkeep straightforward. Body and lighting components specific to RS (halo HID, facelift lamps) are widely available.
- Restoration difficulty: Mechanically accessible; electronics require scan-tool familiarity for module replacements or retrofits. No endemic corrosion issues when kept stock and repaired properly.
Cultural Relevance and Market Perspective
The fifth-gen Camaro’s pop-culture presence—including its star turn as a movie hero car—made the RS look instantly recognizable. The halo headlamps became the nightly calling card in every city, while the 2014 facelift created a distinct early/late split that enthusiasts can spot at a glance. On-track, Camaro’s body-in-white presence and the GS.R program kept enthusiast credibility intact during the model’s run.
Collector interest tends to favor manual-transmission SS RS coupes and special editions that bundled RS content from the factory. RS-badged V6 cars remain popular as dependable, stylish daily drivers with genuine long-distance ability. At auction, RS-equipped cars are typically cataloged under their underlying trims (LT or SS); realized prices track mileage, condition, transmission, and special-edition provenance rather than the RS package alone.
FAQs
Is the Camaro RS a performance model?
It is primarily an appearance, wheel, and lighting package. LT RS cars keep the V6; SS RS cars keep the 6.2L V8. Chassis and power output are defined by the underlying trim and model year.
Which engines were offered with the RS package from 2010–2015?
V6: 3.6L LLT (2010–2011, 304–312 hp) and 3.6L LFX (2012–2015, 323 hp). V8 (on SS with RS): 6.2L L99 automatic (400 hp) or 6.2L LS3 manual (426 hp).
How quick is an RS-equipped Camaro?
Typical independent tests put V6 RS coupes around 6 seconds 0–60 mph and mid-14s in the quarter-mile. SS RS cars land in the high-4s to 60 mph and low-13s to high-12s in the quarter-mile, depending on transmission and conditions.
What changed for 2014–2015 RS cars?
Restyled front and rear fascias, revised headlamps (still HID with LED halo) and one-piece tail lamps, plus trim updates. SS models already had the improved FE4 rear suspension from 2012 onward.
Are there common issues to watch for?
LLT timing chain wear (early V6), AFM lifter concerns (L99 V8), occasional differential whine, and wear items like suspension links. Verify proper functioning of HID/halo lighting on RS cars.
Does the RS package affect value?
It enhances desirability visually but values are primarily driven by engine, transmission, mileage, condition, and any special-edition pedigree. RS itself is not a standalone model.
What transmissions were available?
V6: 6-speed manual (Aisin AY6) or 6-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6L50). V8 SS: 6-speed manual (Tremec TR-6060) or 6-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6L80).
What brakes and suspension do RS cars use?
LT RS: vented discs with sliding calipers; FE2 tuning. SS RS: Brembo fixed calipers and larger rotors; FE3 (2010–2011) or FE4 (2012–2015) tuning.
