The direct-injection 3.6-liter engine with VVT is now rated at 312 hp, up from last year’s 304 hp. Chevy didn’t actually do anything to the engine. Rather, engineers were conservative with the rating the first time around and were quite confident that it would make “at least” the original output. Torque also is rated a bit higher for 2011, at 278 lb-ft; the previous number was 273 lb-ft.

And in case you’re wondering, yes, the Chevy V6 is now a nose ahead of the 2011 V6 Ford Mustang’s 305 hp. But the Blue Oval does still have slightly more twist with 280 lb-ft.

Your move, Ford.

“The 304 hp in the 2010 Camaro was actually a conservative rating on our end,” said a statement from Tom Sutter, GM V6 chief engineer. “But we knew already that this award-winning engine produced at least the amount of power we stated. But now we’ve gone the extra step in certifying the engine for this application and have verified an additional 8 hp.”

Other updates

The Camaro gets a few other dressings for the new model year. Synergy Green, a striking neon lime color, will now be available across the line. This paint job costs an extra $325.

The special Synergy Edition, which is loaded with plenty of green lighting and accent goodies, is limited to the 1LT model. The car is based on a concept from the 2009 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

The 2011 Camaro is also the second Chevrolet to get a head-up display, with speed, tachometer and OnStar turn-by-turn and audio functions. This is currently available on the Corvette.