In a rapidly electrifying automotive world, the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 engine is becoming a nostalgic echo. Cars like the Chevrolet Ss Sedan, a powerful and engaging machine, are fading into memory, a testament to a bygone era of raw, unadulterated driving pleasure. It’s a shame because the SS is genuinely one of the best performance sedans of recent times.
And if you’re wondering why it’s no longer around, look no further than… well, potentially yourself.
Why You Should Consider a Chevy SS Sedan
- Potent LS3 V8 engine with exhilarating sound
- Superb, well-balanced chassis
- Capable of outperforming BMW E39 M5s
Reasons to Think Twice
- Suffered from badge snobbery
- Stock brakes and steering could be sharper
- Infotainment feels dated for its time
Soul Score
9/10
A true taste of Blackwing DNA, for less.
Quick Facts about the Chevrolet SS
Why is the Chevy SS considered rare?
The Chevrolet SS had a brief production run, spanning only four years and totaling a mere 12,860 vehicles in the United States. This rarity stems from its unique origin. The SS was essentially a rebadged Holden Commodore, an Australian-made performance sedan. It was conceived as a successor to the Pontiac G8, another Commodore-based import, after the Pontiac brand was discontinued. A prior agreement between Holden and GM, initially for the G8, paved the way for the SS’s importation.
Despite GM’s restructuring and the end of Pontiac, the commitment to Holden remained. The Chevrolet SS emerged to fulfill this agreement, becoming a niche offering due to its limited production and the impending end of Australian manufacturing by GM.
Why was the Chevrolet SS discontinued?
The Chevrolet SS’s fate was intertwined with the Holden Commodore in Australia. As it shared its platform with the Commodore, the decision to cease Commodore production in 2017 directly led to the SS’s demise. With dwindling sales numbers and the discontinuation of its Australian counterpart, GM had no compelling reason to continue the Chevrolet SS beyond 2017.
What does Chevy SS stand for?
SS is shorthand for Super Sport. This designation has a rich history within Chevrolet, dating back to 1956 when it first graced a racing-focused C1 Corvette. In 1961, Chevrolet introduced an “SS” package for its Impala sedan, arguably the spiritual forebear of the modern Chevrolet SS sedan we’re discussing here. The “Super Sport” badge signifies enhanced performance and sporty characteristics.
Is the Chevrolet SS a rare car?
Rarity is relative. The Holden Commodore, the Chevrolet SS’s almost identical sibling produced in Australia, saw production from 2013 to 2019, with over 127,000 units manufactured. However, these Australian models are not yet eligible for direct import to the United States under current import regulations.
The Chevrolet SS, specifically sold in the US from 2014 to 2017, is much rarer, with just over 12,000 units imported. Considering its intended market as a mainstream performance sedan, this limited number firmly places the Chevrolet SS in the rare category, especially within the American automotive landscape.
The 2016 Chevrolet SS Overview
What defines the ideal sports sedan? A balanced chassis that blends agility with comfort? Check. A satisfying manual transmission? Absolutely. Understated yet handsome styling? Present and accounted for. And of course, power.
Serious power.
The Chevrolet SS delivers on all fronts, and then some. Yet, despite its impressive credentials, it was largely overlooked by the American car buying public. Only around 12,000 found homes during its brief five-year production run. Priced affordably, with a starting MSRP of approximately $44,000 when new, this Australian import (it’s fundamentally a Holden Commodore) represented Chevrolet’s first V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive sedan in 15 long years.
Remember the collective automotive yearning? “Oh please, Big Car Company, build us an accessible performance sedan akin to the E39 BMW M5, and we’ll buy them in droves!” Turns out, that was mostly wishful thinking.
Dodge moves Chargers by the truckload – but the SS is arguably a far superior machine.
Now, the secret is out, albeit a little late. Used Chevrolet SS sedans are now commanding prices similar to their original MSRP from a decade ago. Even at these prices, they arguably remain a performance bargain.
Can this review convince you that a Chevrolet SS sedan deserves a place in your garage, perhaps even over a coveted BMW M car? Let’s delve deeper and find out.
Performance Score: 9/10 – Dreams Realized
When the Chevrolet SS first arrived, automotive publications couldn’t resist pitting it against the benchmark BMW E39 M5. To some, this comparison felt almost insulting.
“Keep that Chevy away from the sacred Bimmer!” some purists scoffed from their leather-upholstered armchairs.
However, these comparisons were valid and insightful. Dismissing the Chevrolet SS as “just” a small-block Chevy or a “pushrod” relic is a grave mistake. It’s a car that transcends its seemingly ordinary components, achieving something truly special. In many ways, the SS is the closest thing to a four-door Corvette that Chevrolet ever produced.
Engine: A Symphony of Power
The LS3 V8 engine is a masterpiece of naturally aspirated power, delivering 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, accompanied by an authentic, unadulterated soundtrack. This engine stands in stark contrast to the BMW S65 (and arguably even the S62), which, while potent, often feel somewhat muted from the factory.
The LS3 roars to life with a glorious, throaty growl, inherently louder and more characterful than many contemporary M cars. Its balanced horsepower and torque figures, achieved without resorting to forced induction or stratospheric redlines, are a testament to its refined power delivery.
Despite its muscular nature, peak power arrives just shy of the 6,000 RPM redline, offering a broad and usable powerband. The throttle response is exceptionally crisp and predictable, allowing for precise control and exhilarating launches without overwhelming the chassis. The entire rev range is a playground of readily accessible performance.
Driving the Chevrolet SS isn’t about chasing breakneck speeds; it’s about savoring the experience. Think of it as a fine wine, meant to be appreciated sip by sip. In a Dodge Hellcat, for example, you’re at warp speed in the blink of an eye, experiencing a brief, intense burst of power before reaching the limits. The SS offers a more nuanced and engaging experience.
Still craving more power? The aftermarket stands ready with supercharger kits starting at surprisingly affordable prices (under $8,000), promising to unlock even greater potential from the already formidable LS3.
Transmission: A Manual Masterpiece
The six-speed manual transmission in the Chevrolet SS is a tactile delight. The short-throw shifter is precise and satisfying to operate, encouraging frequent engagement. This particular test car was fitted with an aftermarket clutch, adding a touch more weight to the pedal, but the overall experience remains exceptional. The desire to constantly shift gears, to orchestrate the engine’s glorious soundtrack, becomes almost addictive. The SS manual transmission feels like it was designed for driving enthusiasts who truly appreciate the art of shifting.
Chevrolet did offer an automatic transmission option for the SS, but opting for it in a car like this feels like missing the point entirely. Choosing the automatic diminishes the visceral connection and driver engagement that are central to the SS’s appeal.
Steering and Chassis: Australian Ingenuity
It’s a testament to Australian engineering that the chassis and steering of the Chevrolet SS are so remarkably well-sorted. If GM applied this level of chassis tuning expertise to their mainstream sedans, we might be driving a truly exceptional 2024 Chevrolet Malibu. Instead, it took Holden’s Australian engineering prowess to create a sedan that handles with such poise and precision.
The steering feel is communicative and engaging. There’s a minimal dead spot directly on-center, but as you initiate a turn, feedback builds progressively and naturally. The level of communication from the front tires is genuinely surprising for a car of this size and type. The steering wheel itself, however, is perhaps the only minor ergonomic letdown. Its somewhat generic shape and feel don’t quite match the sporting character of the chassis. A more sculpted, performance-oriented steering wheel would be a welcome upgrade.
From 2015 onwards, the Chevrolet SS benefited from GM’s sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control suspension, offering Tour, Sport, and Performance driving modes. During this test drive, Sport mode proved to be perfectly judged for spirited road driving. It strikes an ideal balance between ride comfort and body control, showcasing the remarkable adaptability of these magnetorheological dampers. In this respect, the Chevrolet SS shares DNA with Cadillac’s acclaimed Blackwing models, offering a similar level of chassis sophistication, albeit in a slightly larger package. It might even be considered a “plain” Blackwing in terms of driving dynamics.
Despite damp road conditions during the test, the Chevrolet SS remained composed and confidence-inspiring. Turn-in is remarkably sharp and responsive, defying its nearly 4,000-pound curb weight. Body roll is minimal, and the chassis exhibits excellent composure during transitions. Even over bumps and imperfections, the ride remains remarkably refined and controlled – arguably even better than the notoriously firm BMW G80 M3.
While the ride height might be a touch higher than some might prefer for a sports sedan, overall, the chassis and steering of the Chevrolet SS are genuinely exceptional.
Brakes: Needs a Touch More Bite
The braking system is perhaps the Chevrolet SS’s only area for improvement. While equipped with substantial four-piston Brembo calipers up front clamping down on slotted and vented discs, the brake pedal feel is softer than ideal. This isn’t necessarily a matter of outright stopping power, which is certainly adequate. The test car was fitted with aftermarket track-oriented brake pads, which may have contributed to the slightly less-than-optimal pedal feel, particularly in the cool, wet conditions. With acclimatization, the brakes perform effectively, but lack the immediate bite and feedback that some drivers might crave in a high-performance sedan.
The wet conditions during the test drive understandably limited the opportunity to fully explore the Chevrolet SS’s braking capabilities. However, the immediate sense of confidence and composure in challenging conditions speaks volumes about the car’s overall chassis balance and predictability. The SS possesses a chassis that rivals, and in some ways surpasses, many performance sedans produced almost a decade later. It’s genuinely disheartening that a modern equivalent, offering this blend of performance and value, isn’t available today without spending upwards of $100,000 on a Cadillac.
Lifestyle Score: 7/10 – Practical Performance
The Chevrolet SS is undeniably a large sedan. At 195 inches in length, it mirrors the dimensions of a BMW 5 Series.. While not exactly nimble in tight urban environments, this size translates into a spacious and comfortable cabin. Rear passenger room is generous, easily accommodating full-sized adults.
Trunk space is slightly less capacious than the aforementioned 5 Series, but remains practical and usefully shaped for everyday needs. In terms of daily usability, the Chevrolet SS presents no significant compromises. It’s a performance sedan that can readily handle family duties and daily commutes.
Fuel Economy: 4/10 – Thirsty Beast
Fuel economy is predictably not a strong suit of the Chevrolet SS. EPA estimates suggest a combined fuel economy of 14 MPG with the manual transmission. In real-world driving, especially when exploiting the LS3’s performance potential, expect figures to be even lower.
While there are more potent V8 engines available today that achieve better fuel economy, often through turbocharging and other efficiency technologies, the Chevrolet SS’s fuel consumption is in line with other naturally aspirated performance sedans of its era. For instance, the Lexus IS-F (with an automatic transmission) achieves only 16 MPG combined. Considering that used examples of both cars are now similarly priced, the Chevrolet SS arguably offers a more engaging and rewarding driving experience for the fuel consumption trade-off.
Interior & Technology: 7/10 – Surprisingly Refined
The interior of the Chevrolet SS is a pleasant surprise, arguably the nicest cabin found in any American car of its era, short of a Cadillac. It possesses a level of refinement and feature content that wouldn’t feel entirely out of place in a contemporary vehicle. Alcantara trim accents, a functional infotainment system, and even a heads-up display contribute to a surprisingly premium feel.
The exterior styling is deliberately understated. In fact, from a distance, it could easily be mistaken for a Chevrolet Malibu. This subtlety belies the performance lurking beneath the surface – a true “wolf in sheep’s clothing” aesthetic.
Darth Couch Comfort
Stepping into the all-black interior of the Chevrolet SS evokes a sense of understated luxury and comfort. The seats are excellent – supportive and well-bolstered in key areas, although the bottom cushion could benefit from slightly more length for taller drivers. The leather upholstery, while durable, is perhaps the only minor tactile disappointment, feeling somewhat firm and less supple than premium leathers found in European rivals. Swapping to softer Merino leather would elevate the interior ambiance further (a suggestion also applicable to Cadillac).
The infotainment system, while featuring a relatively small screen and dated graphics by modern standards, remains functional and user-friendly. Physical climate control dials are a welcome tactile touch. The overall layout is clean and ergonomically sound, feeling significantly more upscale than interiors found in comparable Dodge models. Gloss black trim accents on the doors add a touch of sophistication, and drilled pedals (though not floor-mounted) are a subtle sporty detail.
Chevrolet clearly wanted to ensure occupants were constantly aware they were in an SS, as “SS” badges are liberally applied throughout the interior.
Criticisms that the Chevrolet SS’s interior didn’t “look” like a near-$50,000 car seem unfounded, particularly when compared to interiors found in contemporary models like the BMW F30 3 Series..
Golden Holden Heritage
GM’s ownership of Holden lasted until 2020, when the 164-year-old Australian marque was shuttered. This closure is directly linked to the Chevrolet SS’s demise – production ceased not due to lack of merit or sales, but because the Holden Commodore, its source, was no longer being manufactured for import.
The Chevrolet SS is built on GM’s rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform, while the Chevrolet Malibu utilizes a front-wheel-drive Epsilon chassis. Despite sharing no mechanical commonality and being fundamentally different vehicles, their visual similarities are striking. It’s akin to making a BMW M3 visually resemble a 2 Series Gran Coupe – a somewhat confusing brand strategy.
The resulting styling is far from unattractive – in fact, the Chevrolet SS possesses a subtly aggressive and muscular aesthetic. Choosing a bolder paint color, like this “Perfect Blue” (Chevrolet’s official name, and arguably accurate), helps the SS stand out from more mundane traffic. Quad exhaust outlets are a distinctly “M-car” inspired touch. Enthusiasts often swap the Chevrolet badges for Holden emblems, creating a unique and subtly “exotic” import, a detail that brings a smile to those in the know.
Up close, the Chevrolet SS features enough vents and design details to pique the interest of car enthusiasts. However, at a generic car show, it might easily blend into the background. And perhaps that’s part of its appeal – its brilliance is best appreciated by those who truly understand and value understated performance.
Other Sports Sedans to Consider
While the article doesn’t list specific competitors, based on the context and comparisons, potential alternatives to the Chevrolet SS sedan in the used market could include:
- BMW E39 M5: The benchmark performance sedan of its era, often compared to the SS.
- BMW F10 M5: A more modern and technologically advanced M5, but potentially at a higher price point.
- Dodge Charger SRT8 / Hellcat: American muscle sedan with a focus on brute power, but less refined chassis.
- Chrysler 300 SRT8: Similar to the Charger SRT8, offering V8 power and American styling.
- Lexus IS-F: Japanese V8 performance sedan, known for reliability and a high-revving engine.
- Cadillac CTS-V (previous generation): Another GM performance sedan, offering supercharged V8 power and more aggressive styling.
The Chevrolet SS is Proof the Car Community Doesn’t Always Know What It Wants
After the Chevrolet SS was discontinued, the author briefly tried a Kia Stinger.. While acknowledging its driving dynamics, the ownership experience was short-lived and ultimately unsatisfactory.
While Chevrolet may not always be synonymous with ultimate quality, they have made significant strides in recent years. The Chevrolet SS, in its relative simplicity compared to modern complex vehicles, has proven to be generally reliable with few major reported issues.
So, why did the Chevrolet SS not achieve broader success? Badge snobbery likely played a significant role. It’s a realization that sometimes, growing up means recognizing that the badge on the hood is less important than the driving experience itself. Owning a BMW, for example, no longer carries the same prestige it once did. While the Chevrolet SS is gone, Cadillac’s Blackwing models like the CT5-V Blackwing carry the performance sedan torch for GM. However, even these are not flying off dealership lots, suggesting a continued disconnect between enthusiast desires and actual buying behavior.
Let the record be clear: the Chevrolet SS is unequivocally one of the finest modern performance sedans ever created. Before clicking “BID NOW” on that BMW E39 M5, any discerning enthusiast owes it to themselves to seriously consider a Chevrolet SS.
The era of engaging, naturally aspirated V8 performance sedans isn’t quite over yet.
Special thanks to Tom for providing his exceptional Chevrolet SS for this review!
2016 Chevrolet SS Specifications
Vehicle Type: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, four-door, five-passenger sedan.
PRICE
Base: $48,920
POWERTRAIN
6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8, 415 horsepower @ 5,900 rpm, 415 lb-ft of torque @ 4,600 rpm, Six-speed manual transmission
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 114.8 in, Length: 195.5 in, Width: 74.7 in, Height: 57.9 in, Curb Weight: 3,997 lbs
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 16 / 14 / 22 MPG
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