Generation 5 · Zeta · 2010–2015
Fifth Generation
The comeback — a retro concept, a movie star, and the revival of ZL1 and Z/28.
Camaro came back from its 2002 cancellation as a 2010 model on GM's rear-drive Zeta platform, closely following a 2006 concept that referenced the 1969 car. The “Bumblebee” Transformers tie-in delivered a measurable sales windfall before the real car even shipped.
The convertible returned in 2011, and the ZL1 (2012) and Z/28 (2014) names came back as genuinely different performance philosophies — supercharged grand-tourer versus naturally aspirated track special.
Highlights
- 2010 relaunch after the 2003–2009 gap
- Transformers “Bumblebee” marketing effect
- 2012 ZL1 returns (supercharged, 580 hp) + modern COPO drag program
- 2013 1LE returns
- 2014 Z/28 — naturally aspirated 505 hp LS7 track car
Model years
The convertible returns
A folding roof comes back to the Camaro for the first time since 2002, built in Oshawa, Ontario.
Two legend names return
The ZL1 comes back (supercharged, 580 hp) and the modern COPO drag program begins.
The 1LE returns — and a Hot Wheels Camaro
The track-focused 1LE package comes back on the SS, reviving the third/fourth-gen lineage.
The Z/28 returns — power isn't the point
A naturally aspirated 505 hp LS7 track car that out-laps the more powerful ZL1.
The fifth generation signs off
The final year of the Zeta-platform car, with the LS7-powered Z/28 still on offer.
Every produced model year in this generation has its own evidence-led record.