For many automotive enthusiasts, the thrill isn’t always about the flashiest car, but discovering a hidden gem – a vehicle that subtly packs a punch. It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of the latest models and forget about those slightly under-the-radar cars that offer surprising performance and value. Here at keyfobx.com, we appreciate those understated performers, and the 2014 Chevrolet Ss is a prime example.
We recently had the opportunity to experience this modern classic firsthand, thanks to an email from one of our dedicated readers. Gene, a resident of Alexandria, VA, reached out with an intriguing proposition: test drive his brand new, low-mileage 2014 Chevrolet SS. He extended the offer to any TTAC writer in the area who promised to treat his prized possession with respect. Serendipitously, our own expert was heading to the Baltimore/Washington D.C. region and jumped at the chance to get behind the wheel of this intriguing Bowtie.
Meeting the Owner and the Machine
Our expert met Gene at BWI Airport, where Gene arrived in his 2014 Chevrolet SS. Seeing the car in person for the first time, the initial impression was one of understated power. While some might draw comparisons to the Chevrolet Malibu, the SS possesses a distinct presence. It’s not overtly aggressive, but there’s a subtle muscularity that sets it apart from its more mundane GM siblings. This is a car that doesn’t shout its performance credentials, choosing instead to whisper them to those in the know.
Gene himself is not your typical muscle car stereotype. An adjunct professor and consultant, his garage also houses a Lexus SC 430 and a CT200h. His choice of the 2014 Chevy SS speaks volumes about the car’s appeal to a discerning buyer who values performance without ostentation. After a warm greeting and luggage stowed in the surprisingly spacious trunk, Gene tossed our reviewer the keys – a gesture that immediately signaled this wouldn’t be just a casual test drive.
Inside the SS: A Blend of Familiarity and Upgrades
Slipping into the driver’s seat of the 2014 Chevrolet SS evoked a sense of déjà vu for our reviewer, a former Pontiac G8 GT owner. The underlying architecture hints at its Australian Commodore roots, but the interior is undeniably GM, albeit significantly upgraded from the G8. Gone is the basic stereo head unit that plagued the G8; in its place, the SS boasts a large, full-color infotainment screen prominently positioned in the center of the dash. The addition of a heads-up display is another welcome modern touch.
However, some aspects of the interior drew Gene’s critique after a few weeks of ownership. The suede accents, particularly the red suede “SS” logos, felt somewhat out of place in a car with a $50,000 price tag. The small sunroof also seemed like an afterthought. Another point of contention was the flimsy plastic paddle shifters. Gene rightly questioned the minimal cost difference to equip the SS with more premium metal paddles, especially given its performance aspirations. Indeed, their flex was noticeable even during moderate shifting on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.
Unleashing the LS3: Performance and Driving Impressions
The initial drive towards downtown Baltimore in the 2014 Chevy SS was deliberately restrained, partly due to traffic and partly to avoid overwhelming the generous owner. In city driving, the SS behaves with surprising civility. It’s docile and comfortable, feeling more akin to a well-equipped Impala than a tire-shredding performance machine. The suspension, while perhaps a touch soft for track days, proved well-suited to navigating Baltimore’s less-than-perfect roads.
However, the true character of the 2014 Chevrolet SS is unleashed when you open up the throttle. Once clear of city congestion and onto open highway, the transformation is remarkable. Bypassing the somewhat hesitant automatic transmission, our reviewer opted for manual control via the paddles. This is where the SS truly comes alive.
The 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine delivers breathtaking acceleration, especially in the mid-range. Forget 0-60 times; the 2014 Chevrolet SS truly shines in the 60-100 mph range, devouring highway miles with ease. The exhaust note, subdued at lower speeds, transforms into a glorious V8 roar as the revs climb. Suddenly, the understated sedan sheds its Clark Kent disguise and reveals its Superman persona. Passing maneuvers become effortless, and the SS confidently carves through traffic.
While the engine and straight-line performance are undeniably impressive, the handling reveals some limitations. The Potenza RE050 tires struggled for grip during spirited on-ramp driving, and the suspension exhibited noticeable body roll. The Brembo brakes, while visually appealing, required significant pedal effort to deliver maximum stopping power. It’s not a track-focused weapon like a Corvette, but the 2014 Chevy SS was never intended to be. It’s a comfortable, powerful sedan that prioritizes daily drivability with bursts of exhilarating performance on demand.
SS vs. the Competition: A Unique Proposition
Gene, the owner, had considered other contenders before settling on the 2014 Chevrolet SS, including the Chrysler 300C 5.7 and the Hyundai Genesis R-Spec. His past experiences with European luxury brands, particularly reliability issues, steered him away from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Interestingly, Gene cited the exceptional dealership experience as a key factor in his SS purchase. Perhaps Chevrolet dealerships, accustomed to selling high-priced trucks and SUVs, are well-equipped to cater to customers in the $50,000 price range.
The common comparison of the 2014 Chevrolet SS to a “four-door Corvette” is arguably lazy and inaccurate. While both share the LS3 V8, their missions and capabilities diverge significantly. The SS excels as a comfortable and practical daily driver, whereas the Corvette is a more focused sports car. However, the SS does offer a compelling blend of performance and practicality that few sedans can match. The wish list for the SS includes a manual transmission and a more refined suspension, both of which were addressed in the subsequent 2015 model year. As Gene himself noted, he might have bought his SS “a year too soon.”
Beyond the Car: The Enthusiast Connection
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of the 2014 Chevrolet SS experience was the connection with a fellow enthusiast. Dinner with Gene at a Longhorn Steakhouse provided an opportunity to discuss cars, community, and the shared passion for vehicles like the SS that fly under the radar. Witnessing Gene’s enthusiasm for his car and his sheer enjoyment of experiencing its performance firsthand was a refreshing reminder of why we love cars in the first place.
Driving back to the hotel, a humorous moment occurred when the SS found itself behind a Mercedes-Benz CLA 250. The juxtaposition of a $50,000 Chevrolet and a $30,000 Mercedes highlighted the 2014 Chevy SS‘s “wolf in sheep’s clothing” nature. It’s a car for those who appreciate performance without the need for flashy badges or attention-grabbing styling.
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Chevy SS Still Worth Considering?
The 2014 Chevrolet SS is not without its flaws. The interior, while improved over previous GM offerings, still has some questionable material choices. The automatic transmission, while competent, isn’t the most engaging. And the handling, while adequate for daily driving, isn’t razor-sharp.
However, these minor shortcomings are easily overshadowed by the car’s strengths. The LS3 V8 engine is a powerhouse, delivering thrilling acceleration and a glorious soundtrack. The understated styling is a refreshing alternative to the increasingly aggressive designs prevalent in the performance sedan segment. And the comfortable ride makes it a genuinely enjoyable daily driver.
If you’re in the market for a used performance sedan that offers a unique blend of power, practicality, and sleeper appeal, the 2014 Chevrolet SS deserves serious consideration. While it might not be a perfect car, it’s a compelling and often overlooked option that delivers a driving experience that’s sure to put a smile on your face. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best cars are the ones that don’t need to shout to get noticed.
Thank you again to Gene for allowing us to experience his 2014 Chevrolet SS. If you, our readers, have a unique vehicle you’d like to share with the keyfobx.com community, please reach out! We’re always eager to explore the diverse world of automotive enthusiasm.
