As the automotive world increasingly leans towards electrification, the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 engine becomes a nostalgic echo of a bygone era. Cars like the Chevrolet SS, especially the automatic variant, are fast becoming cherished relics. It’s a car that embodies pure driving pleasure, something that might soon be relegated to history.
And the reason these gems are becoming memories? Perhaps, it’s partly on us.
Reasons to Consider
- Potent LS3 V8 Engine with Impressive Sound
- Well-Balanced Chassis for Engaging Handling
- Surprising Performance that Rivals European Sedans
Drawbacks to Note
- Brand Perception Might Not Match the Car’s Capabilities
- Stock Brakes and Steering Could Be More Refined
- Infotainment System Feels Dated Compared to Modern Cars
Soul Score
9/10
A True American Performance Sedan Experience
Quick Facts about the Chevrolet SS Automatic
Why is the Chevy SS Automatic Production So Limited?
The Chevrolet SS, in both manual and automatic forms, had a brief production run of just four years, resulting in only 12,860 units in total. This rarity stems from its origin as a rebadged Holden Commodore, an Australian-made vehicle. It was initially conceived to succeed the Pontiac G8, another Holden-based sedan, after the Pontiac brand was discontinued. A pre-existing agreement between Holden and GM for the G8 paved the way for the SS’s importation to the US.
Despite GM’s restructuring and the end of Pontiac, the commitment to Holden remained. The Chevrolet SS was created to fulfill this obligation.
Why Did Chevrolet Discontinue the SS Automatic?
The discontinuation of the Chevrolet Ss Automatic is directly linked to the fate of its Australian counterpart, the Holden Commodore. The Commodore platform, the foundation of the SS, ceased production in 2017. With limited sales volumes and the discontinuation of its source model, GM decided to end production for the SS as well.
What Does Chevy SS Stand For?
SS is an abbreviation for Super Sport. This designation has a rich history within Chevrolet, dating back to 1956 when it was first used for a racing-focused version of the C1 Corvette. In 1961, Chevrolet introduced an “SS” package for the Impala sedan, which can be seen as a spiritual predecessor to the Chevrolet SS we’re discussing here.
How Rare is the Chevrolet SS Automatic?
The rarity of the Chevrolet SS automatic is relative. The Holden Commodore, its nearly identical Australian sibling, saw production from 2013 to 2019, with over 127,000 units manufactured. However, direct import of these models to the US is currently restricted due to age regulations.
The Chevrolet SS, including the automatic models, was produced from 2014 to 2017, with just over 12,000 units imported into the United States. Considering its target market as a mainstream performance sedan, the Chevrolet SS, especially in automatic configuration, can be considered a rare find.
The 2016 Chevrolet SS Automatic Overview
The Chevrolet SS: A performance sedan that delivers on multiple fronts.
What defines the ideal sports sedan? A responsive and comfortable chassis? Underrated styling? And undeniably, robust power.
And plenty of it.
The Chevrolet SS automatic delivers on all these fronts, and perhaps more. Yet, its sales figures were modest, with around 12,000 units sold over its production span. Priced around $44,000 when new, it was a surprisingly accessible performance bargain. Imported from Australia and based on the Holden platform, the SS marked Chevrolet’s return to V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive sedans after a 15-year hiatus.
“We crave an affordable performance sedan like the E39 M5!” the enthusiasts cried. But when Chevy delivered, the market response was lukewarm.
Dodge Charger’s sales success in comparison? The SS automatic arguably surpasses it in driving dynamics.
Today, the Chevrolet SS automatic is becoming a sought-after gem in the used car market, often priced around its original MSRP from a decade ago. Yet, even at current prices, it represents remarkable value for the performance and experience it offers.
Can we persuade you that opting for a Chevrolet SS automatic over a comparable BMW M model is a compelling choice? Let’s delve deeper.
Performance Score: 9. Automatic Excitement
The Chevrolet SS automatic offers thrilling performance that belies its understated appearance.
Automotive publications were quick to pit the Chevrolet SS against benchmarks like the E39 BMW M5. Some might have considered it an unfair comparison, perhaps even insulting to the revered M5.
“Keep that Chevy away from the BMW,” some purists might have exclaimed.
However, these comparisons were valid. The Chevrolet SS automatic transcends its seemingly ordinary components. It’s akin to a four-door Corvette, offering a similar blend of raw power and surprisingly refined handling, even in its automatic guise.
Engine and Automatic Transmission
A naturally aspirated masterpiece, the LS3 engine delivers 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine stands in stark contrast to engines that rely on forced induction or high-revving complexity.
The LS3’s soundtrack is genuinely exhilarating, arguably more so than many contemporary M cars. The torque curve is broad and accessible, providing effortless acceleration without needing turbochargers or stratospheric RPMs.
While peak power arrives just shy of the 6,000 RPM redline, the throttle response is immediate and predictable, allowing for precise control and exhilarating launches, even with the automatic transmission. The engine’s flexibility makes everyday driving a pleasure, and unleashing its full potential is always rewarding.
The LS3 V8 provides a symphony of sound, enhanced by the automatic transmission’s smooth shifts.
The exhaust note is a deep, resonant roar that perfectly complements the V8’s character. While some might assume the automatic transmission detracts from the experience, the 6-speed automatic in the Chevrolet SS is surprisingly responsive and well-matched to the engine’s power delivery. It offers quick shifts in Sport mode and smooth, comfortable cruising in Drive. Paddle shifters provide manual control when desired, enhancing driver engagement.
If you perceive the Chevrolet SS automatic as lacking in outright speed, consider its performance delivery as a refined experience, like savoring a fine wine. Unlike some high-strung performance cars that deliver fleeting bursts of acceleration, the SS offers sustained, usable power across the rev range.
And for those seeking even more power, supercharger kits are readily available and surprisingly affordable.
Steering and Chassis Dynamics
The steering provides ample feedback, contributing to the SS automatic’s engaging driving experience.
If GM channeled the engineering prowess behind the SS into their mainstream sedans, perhaps we’d all be driving exceptional cars. It took the Australian division, Holden, to create a sedan with such impressive dynamics.
The steering feel is communicative, with a slight on-center dead spot, but it builds weight and feedback progressively through corners. The chassis feels remarkably balanced, inspiring confidence in various driving situations.
For 2015 models and onwards, GM’s Magnetic Ride Control was incorporated, offering Tour, Sport, and Performance modes. Sport mode strikes an excellent balance between ride comfort and handling prowess, typical of these adaptive damping systems. It positions the SS automatic in a similar dynamic league as Cadillac’s Blackwing models, especially considering their comparable size.
Drive modes adjust suspension and engine response, tailoring the SS automatic to different driving preferences.
Despite challenging wet conditions during the test drive, the car remained composed and predictable. Turn-in is sharp, defying its 4,000-pound curb weight, and body control is commendable with minimal squat or dive. The ride quality is surprisingly refined, arguably better than a G80 BMW M3.
The ride height is typical of modern sedans, perhaps slightly higher than some might prefer. Beyond this minor point, the chassis is exceptionally well-engineered.
Brakes
The Chevrolet SS automatic features four-piston Brembo brakes up front, providing ample stopping power. While the brake pedal feel might be slightly softer than some enthusiasts prefer, the overall braking performance is certainly adequate for spirited driving. The owner of the test car had upgraded to track-oriented brake pads, which might have contributed to the pedal feel in cooler, wet conditions. However, with familiarity, the brakes are unlikely to limit the driving enjoyment of the SS automatic.
Brembo brakes ensure confident stopping power for the Chevrolet SS automatic.
Due to the rainy weather, pushing the SS automatic to its absolute limits wasn’t feasible. Yet, the immediate sense of confidence and composure in wet conditions speaks volumes about its chassis and overall engineering. The Chevrolet SS automatic’s chassis rivals cars designed nearly a decade later, highlighting the value proposition it represents, especially compared to modern performance sedans that can cost twice as much.
Lifestyle Score: 7. Spacious and Practical
The Chevrolet SS automatic is a substantial sedan, mirroring the size of a BMW 5 Series at 195 inches long. While not inherently nimble in tight urban environments, its size translates into a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates four adults.
The trunk space is slightly less generous than the 530i, but it remains practically shaped and sufficiently sized for daily needs. In essence, the SS automatic is a comfortable and functional daily driver.
Fuel Economy: 4. Fuel Consumption is a Trade-off
While not fuel-efficient, the Chevrolet SS automatic delivers exhilarating performance.
Fuel economy is not a strong suit of the Chevrolet SS automatic. EPA estimates suggest 14 MPG combined for the manual version, and the automatic is likely to be similar. Spirited driving will undoubtedly result in lower figures.
While more contemporary, turbocharged V8s can offer better fuel efficiency, the naturally aspirated LS3 delivers a unique character and throttle response that many enthusiasts prefer. Comparing it to vehicles like the Lexus IS-F (with an automatic) which achieves a comparable 16 MPG combined, the Chevrolet SS automatic’s fuel consumption is within the expected range for its performance class. Given similar used prices, the driving experience arguably tips the balance in favor of the SS automatic.
Features and Comfort: 7. Understated Luxury
The interior of the Chevrolet SS automatic is surprisingly well-appointed, exceeding expectations for an American sedan in its price range, save for luxury brands like Cadillac. The cabin design and material quality, including Alcantara trim and a heads-up display, remain relevant even by today’s standards.
The exterior styling is deliberately subtle. It could be mistaken for a regular Chevrolet Malibu at a glance. This understated aesthetic is part of the SS automatic’s appeal – a “sleeper” performance sedan that doesn’t scream for attention.
Comfortable and Functional Interior
Interior details like red stitching and gloss black trim elevate the cabin ambiance.
Stepping into the all-black interior creates a sense of focused comfort. The seats are supportive and well-bolstered, though a slightly longer bottom cushion would be welcomed by some. The leather upholstery, while durable, could be more supple.
Chevrolet SS
The infotainment system, while featuring a smaller screen and dated graphics compared to modern systems, remains functional and user-friendly. Dual-zone climate control adds to passenger comfort. Physical dials for key functions are a welcome touch in an era of touch-sensitive interfaces. Gloss black trim on the doors and drilled pedals (though not floor-mounted) contribute to a more premium feel.
Chevrolet’s branding is prominent throughout the interior, reminding occupants of the car’s SS designation.
Never forget what car you’re in.
Supportive seats offer long-distance comfort, though leather could be softer.
Criticisms that the SS interior didn’t reflect its original price point often overlook the interiors of competitors like the F30 BMW 3 Series of the same era.
Holden Heritage
The Chevrolet SS automatic’s design incorporates subtle sporty cues, including a rear lip spoiler and unique taillights. The SS is built on GM’s Zeta rear-drive platform, distinct from the front-wheel-drive Chevrolet Malibu, despite visual similarities. This resemblance is akin to making an M3 look like a 2 Series Gran Coupe – a shared aesthetic masking different engineering philosophies.
The front fascia hints at the performance capabilities lurking beneath the surface.
The overall design is far from unattractive, presenting a subtly aggressive stance. Opting for a bolder color like Perfect Blue enhances its presence on the road. Quad exhaust outlets add a touch reminiscent of M-cars. Swapping Chevrolet badges for Holden emblems can further enhance its appeal to car enthusiasts, adding a touch of exclusivity.
While the design might not grab attention at a casual glance, its understated nature is part of its charm. True enthusiasts recognize the performance potential concealed beneath the subtle exterior.
Other Performance Sedans to Consider
The Chevrolet SS Automatic: A Missed Opportunity or a Future Classic?
The Chevrolet SS automatic serves as a reminder that the automotive market doesn’t always embrace exceptional cars when they are offered.
While Chevrolet’s reputation for quality might have been a concern for some, the SS is generally regarded as a mechanically robust vehicle, especially by modern standards.
So, why didn’t it achieve greater popularity? Perhaps brand perception played a significant role. However, evolving automotive tastes are shifting perspectives. Prestige associated with certain badges is diminishing, and the inherent qualities of cars like the Chevrolet SS automatic are gaining recognition. While the SS is no longer in production, Cadillac’s Blackwing models carry the torch of American performance sedans, albeit at a higher price point.
The Chevrolet SS automatic stands as one of the finest modern performance sedans, offering a compelling blend of V8 power, refined handling (even with the automatic), and understated practicality. Before considering a used BMW E39 M5, a serious look at a Chevrolet SS automatic is highly recommended.
The era of exceptional internal combustion engine performance sedans might be nearing its end. The Chevrolet SS automatic is a prime example of what we might miss.
Special thanks to Tom for providing his Chevrolet SS automatic for this review!
2016 Chevrolet SS Automatic Specifications
Vehicle Type: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, four-door, five-passenger sedan.
PRICE
Base: $48,920 (for automatic transmission model, estimated)
POWERTRAIN
6.2 liter naturally aspirated V-8 415 hp @ 5,900 rpm 415 lb-ft of torque @ 4,600 rpm Six-speed automatic with paddle shifters
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 114.8 in Length: 195.5 in Width: 74.7 in Height: 57.9 in Curb Weight: 4,000 lbs (estimated for automatic)
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 16 / 14 / 22 MPG (estimated, similar to manual)
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