I recently shopped for a new Camaro 1SS with the 1LE Package. The salesman told me that to get certain options, I would have to get the RS package, which requires a cost upgrade for the wheels. The 1LE package also includes a cost upgrade for wheels. So, essentially, I'd be paying for wheels in the RS package that I'm not even getting?
You do not have to buy the RS Package to get the 1LE SS Performance Package on the Camaro SS, but we will assume you want the $1,350 RS gear because it includes high-intensity-discharge headlights with LED halos.
The wheels that come in the RS package are the same size and type as the standard SS wheels (20-by-8-inch rims in front and 20 by 9 inches in the rear), only with a "midnight silver" finish instead of bright aluminum. Chevrolet says the different finish adds only minimal cost, and mostly you're paying for the cool headlights. HIDs and LEDs aren't cheap.
The $3,500 SS Performance Package, on the hand, includes wider 20-inch diameter wheels (10 inches wide in front, 11 inches in back), and they're forged aluminum (instead of cast) with a 10-spoke design. That's a bigger difference in rims that adds significant cost, along with the wider tires, performance suspension and other pieces in the package.
Bottom line: It's your choice on whether to get the RS package, but if you want HID headlights, that's how you get them on a Camaro SS. Technically you are paying for wheels that are being replaced by the SS performance equipment, but what it adds to the cost — if anything — is pocket change compared to what you're spending on other things.
Learn more
- Expert Review: 2013 Chevrolet Camaro (Cars.com)
- 2013 Chevrolet Camaro Pricing and Research (Cars.com)
