As the automotive world increasingly leans towards electric vehicles, the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 engine becomes a nostalgic echo of the past. For enthusiasts who appreciate raw power and unadulterated driving pleasure, cars like the Chevrolet SS 4 door sedan are becoming cherished relics. This modern muscle sedan, produced for a brief four-year window, is a testament to what happens when American muscle meets Australian engineering prowess. It’s a car that was perhaps underappreciated in its time, partly due to you, the car buying public.
Yes, you. You overlooked a truly exceptional machine.
Why You Should Consider a Chevy SS 4 Door Sedan
- Potent LS3 V8 engine and exhilarating soundtrack
- Finely tuned chassis offering superb handling
- Capable of outperforming iconic European sport sedans
Reasons Why Some Overlooked the Chevy SS 4 Door Sedan
- Suffered from a lack of brand recognition in the performance sedan segment
- Steering and braking feel could be more refined
- Infotainment system felt dated even when new
Soul Score
9/10
A true American performance bargain, often called a baby Blackwing for good reason.
Quick Facts about the Chevy SS 4 Door Sedan
Why is the Chevy SS 4 Door Sedan so rare?
The Chevrolet SS 4 door sedan’s rarity stems from its limited production run between 2014 and 2017, totaling only 12,860 units for the US market. Its origins are rooted in the Australian Holden Commodore, essentially an Australian-engineered Chevrolet. The SS was conceived as a successor to the Pontiac G8, another Holden-based performance sedan, after the Pontiac brand was discontinued. A pre-existing agreement between Holden and GM, initially intended for the G8, necessitated the creation of the Chevrolet SS to fulfill this commitment after GM’s restructuring.
Why was the Chevy SS 4 Door Sedan discontinued?
The demise of the Chevy Ss 4 Door Sedan is directly linked to the fate of its Australian counterpart, the Holden Commodore. As the SS shared its platform with the Commodore, and Holden ceased Commodore production in 2017, the business case for continuing the low-volume SS in the US vanished. Low sales figures further cemented the decision to end its production.
What does Chevy SS stand for?
SS is an abbreviation for Super Sport. This designation has a storied history within Chevrolet, dating back to 1956 when it first graced a racing-focused version of the C1 Corvette. In 1961, the SS badge was offered as a performance package on the Impala sedan, arguably the spiritual ancestor to the modern Chevy SS 4 door sedan.
Is the Chevy SS 4 Door Sedan a rare car?
Rarity is relative. The Holden Commodore, the Chevy SS 4 door sedan’s near-identical Australian sibling, saw production from 2013 to 2019, with over 127,000 units manufactured. However, these Commodores are not yet eligible for direct import to the United States under current import laws.
The Chevrolet SS 4 door sedan, specifically sold in the US from 2014 to 2017, with just over 12,000 units imported, is indeed a rare sight, especially considering it was marketed to a mainstream audience. For those seeking a unique and powerful performance sedan, the Chevy SS 4 door sedan undoubtedly qualifies as a rare gem.
The 2016 Chevrolet SS 4 Door Sedan Overview
A sleek blue Chevy SS 4 door sedan showcases its understated yet sporty design.
What are the essential ingredients for an ideal sports sedan? A balanced chassis that blends agility with ride comfort. The engagement of a manual transmission. A design that’s handsome without being ostentatious. And crucially, abundant power.
And we mean serious power.
The Chevy SS 4 door sedan delivers on all fronts, and then some. Yet, its sales figures tell a different story. During its production run, a mere 12,000 units found homes. Priced around $44,000 when new, it was remarkably affordable for the performance it offered. Imported from Australia and built by Holden, the SS marked Chevrolet’s return to the V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive sedan segment after a 15-year hiatus.
The automotive press and enthusiasts clamored for a reasonably priced, high-performance sedan, a modern-day equivalent to the lauded E39 BMW M5. Chevrolet delivered, but the buying public largely stayed away.
Meanwhile, Dodge continues to move Chargers in significant numbers – despite the Chevy SS 4 door sedan arguably being a superior performance machine in many respects.
Now, the secret is starting to get out. Used Chevy SS 4 door sedans are holding their value, often selling for prices comparable to their original MSRP from a decade ago. However, even at these prices, they represent a compelling bargain for discerning performance enthusiasts.
Can this review persuade you that a Chevy SS 4 door sedan deserves a place in your garage, perhaps even over a more prestigious European performance sedan? Let’s delve deeper and see.
Performance Score: 9. Automotive Dreams Realized
The Chevy SS 4 door sedan displays its athletic stance and balanced proportions in a dynamic shot.
When the Chevy SS 4 door sedan first arrived, automotive publications were quick to draw comparisons to the legendary E39 BMW M5. Some BMW purists may have scoffed at the comparison, perhaps uttering phrases like, “Keep that Chevy away from the Bimmer!” from their leather-clad armchairs.
However, the comparisons were not unfounded. The Chevy SS 4 door sedan transcends its seemingly conventional components. It’s far more than just a collection of “small-block” and “pushrod” engine parts. In essence, it’s the closest thing to a four-door Corvette that Chevrolet ever produced.
Engine
The heart of the Chevy SS 4 door sedan is its magnificent engine, delivering an authentic, unadulterated soundtrack. The LS3 V8 churns out 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine stands as a prime example of what some perceived as shortcomings in engines like the BMW S65 (and arguably even the revered S62).
Here, you have an engine that emits a glorious roar straight from the factory, arguably more sonorous than any contemporary M car. The torque figure, matching the horsepower, is achieved without resorting to forced induction or stratospheric redlines.
Make no mistake, this isn’t just a low-revving grunt machine. Peak power arrives just shy of the 6,000 RPM redline. The engine’s throttle response is impeccably crisp, ensuring smooth and predictable power delivery that perfectly complements the chassis’s balance. Exploring the full rev range is an addictive experience.
The quad exhaust pipes of the Chevy SS 4 door sedan hint at the V8 power lurking beneath the surface.
The exhaust note is a deep, resonant bellow that perfectly encapsulates the V8 experience. If you’re concerned that the Chevy SS 4 door sedan might lack outright speed, consider its engine as a fine wine – meant to be savored and appreciated. In a Dodge Hellcat, you reach ludicrous speeds in an instant, and the thrill is over almost as quickly as it begins.
Still craving more power? Supercharger kits for the LS3 are readily available and surprisingly affordable, starting under $8,000.
Transmission
The six-speed manual transmission in the Chevy SS 4 door sedan is a tactile delight. The short-throw shifter is incredibly satisfying to operate. This particular test car featured an aftermarket clutch with a slightly heavier feel than stock, but the overall experience remained exceptional. You’ll find yourself wanting to shift gears frequently, not out of necessity, but purely for the joy of it. Gear changes are precise and engaging, making every drive feel more connected. This gearbox is so rewarding, it could easily feature in a Hollywood action movie for dramatic gear-shifting close-ups.
Snick. Snick. Pure mechanical bliss.
While Chevrolet did offer an automatic transmission option for the SS, opting for the manual is the purist’s choice and arguably unlocks the full potential of this performance sedan. Choosing the automatic might as well be settling for a less engaging driving experience altogether.
Steering and Chassis
If General Motors invested this level of chassis engineering into their entire sedan lineup, we might be reviewing a truly exceptional 2024 Chevrolet Malibu. Instead, it took Australian ingenuity to create a sedan this dynamically accomplished.
Behind the wheel, the steering immediately impresses. There’s a subtle, almost imperceptible dead spot at dead center, but as you initiate a turn, feedback progressively builds, delivering a natural and communicative feel. The level of chassis competence is astonishing, prompting one to wonder why Australian automotive engineering isn’t more widely recognized. If there’s a minor critique, it might be directed at the steering wheel itself. Its shape and material lack a sporty feel, which seems slightly out of place in a car with such dynamic capabilities.
The ride height is also perfectly judged, contributing to both the car’s stance and handling prowess. GM’s Magnetic Ride Control, standard on 2015 and later models, offers Tour, Sport, and Performance driving modes. The test drive in Sport mode, even in wet conditions, revealed an ideal balance of ride comfort and body control. These magnetic dampers deliver the exceptional ride and handling compromise that they are renowned for. In this aspect, the Chevy SS 4 door sedan shares DNA with the Cadillac Blackwing models – or perhaps it’s more accurate to say it’s a precursor to the Blackwing ethos.
The drive mode selector in the Chevy SS 4 door sedan allows for customizable engine and suspension settings.
Despite the rain-soaked roads during the test drive, the car remained composed and confidence-inspiring. Turn-in is remarkably sharp, defying its nearly 4,000-pound curb weight. Body roll is minimal, and the chassis effectively manages squat and dive under acceleration and braking. The ride quality surpasses even that of a modern BMW G80 M3 in terms of bump absorption and overall compliance.
Perhaps the ride height sits slightly higher than some might prefer, a common trait in modern sedans. Beyond this minor observation, the chassis tuning is near perfection.
Brakes
The Chevy SS 4 door sedan features four-piston Brembo brakes up front, providing substantial stopping power. However, the brake pedal feel is softer than some performance drivers might desire. This isn’t a hardware limitation, as the Brembo calipers clamp down on slotted and vented discs. The test car was equipped with track-oriented brake pads, which may have contributed to the slightly less responsive feel in the cool, wet conditions. Nonetheless, the brakes are undeniably effective and, with familiarity, won’t hinder spirited driving.
Due to the inclement weather, pushing the Chevy SS 4 door sedan to its absolute limits wasn’t feasible during this test. However, the car’s ability to inspire confidence in challenging conditions speaks volumes about its inherent capabilities. The chassis is exceptional, rivaling cars nearly a decade newer. It’s a shame that a direct modern equivalent isn’t readily available without stepping up to the significantly more expensive Cadillac Blackwing.
Lifestyle Score: 7. A Substantial Sedan
The Chevy SS 4 door sedan is undeniably a large car. Its 195-inch length mirrors that of a BMW 5 Series. While not what one would call nimble in the compact sports sedan sense, this size translates into ample interior space, comfortably accommodating four adults.
Rear passenger room is generous, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently transport passengers. Trunk space is slightly less than the aforementioned 530i, but still offers a usable and well-shaped cargo area. In terms of everyday usability, the Chevy SS 4 door sedan presents no significant compromises. It’s a comfortable and spacious sedan suitable for daily driving duties.
Fuel Economy: 4. A Thirsty Beast
Fuel economy is not a strong suit of the Chevy SS 4 door sedan. EPA estimates rate it at 14 MPG combined with the manual transmission. Driven with enthusiasm, fuel consumption will likely be even higher.
While more modern, turbocharged V8 engines often achieve better fuel economy figures, it’s important to consider the context. Compared to other naturally aspirated performance sedans of its era, such as the Lexus IS-F (rated at 16 MPG combined with an automatic), the SS is in the same ballpark. Considering the superior driving experience offered by the Chevy SS 4 door sedan, the slightly lower fuel economy seems a reasonable trade-off. Especially when both cars are now available in a similar used price range.
Interior & Technology: 7. Chevy’s Surprisingly Upscale Cabin
The interior of the Chevy SS 4 door sedan is surprisingly refined, arguably the nicest cabin found in any American car outside of the Cadillac brand (which occupies a higher price point). The design and materials hold up well even by today’s standards, featuring Alcantara trim accents, a functional infotainment system, and even a heads-up display.
The exterior styling might be considered understated, with some even mistaking it for a Chevrolet Malibu at first glance. This subtlety belies the potent performance lurking beneath, much like the Incredible Hulk in casual attire.
Darth Couch Comfort
The black interior of the Chevy SS 4 door sedan features comfortable seats and subtle sporty touches.
Stepping into the all-black interior creates a sense of comfortable containment. The seats are excellent, offering ample support and bolstering in the right areas, although a slightly longer bottom cushion would be welcome. The leather upholstery, while durable, lacks the supple feel of premium hides like Merino leather. (A note to Cadillac: more Merino leather, please).
The infotainment system, while featuring a smaller screen and dated graphics compared to modern systems, remains functional and easy to use. Physical climate controls are a welcome feature, allowing for quick adjustments. The overall layout is user-friendly and avoids the overtly cheap feel found in some domestic competitors. Gloss black trim accents on the doors add a touch of sophistication, and drilled pedals provide a subtle sporty detail (although they are top-hinged rather than more desirable floor-mounted).
Chevrolet subtly reminds occupants that they are in an SS model with discreet badging throughout the interior.
Subtle SS badging in the Chevy SS 4 door sedan’s interior serves as a reminder of its performance credentials.
Criticisms that the SS interior didn’t feel commensurate with its near-$50,000 price tag likely came from those who hadn’t experienced the interiors of contemporary competitors like the BMW F30 3 Series.
Holden Heritage
The rear styling of the blue Chevy SS 4 door sedan, showcasing its subtle rear spoiler and quad exhaust outlets.
GM’s ownership of Holden, which sadly ended in 2020 with the closure of the 164-year-old Australian brand, is intrinsically linked to the Chevy SS 4 door sedan’s existence. The SS was discontinued not due to lack of merit, but because the Holden Commodore, upon which it was based, ceased production, eliminating the import source.
It’s crucial to understand that the Chevy SS 4 door sedan rides on GM’s rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform, while the Chevrolet Malibu utilizes the front-wheel-drive Epsilon chassis. Despite sharing a badge and a vague visual resemblance, they are fundamentally different cars. It’s akin to making a BMW M3 look like a 2 Series Gran Coupe – a superficial resemblance masking a vast difference in engineering and intent.
The resulting styling of the Chevy SS 4 door sedan is far from unattractive. Its design is subtly aggressive, and opting for a bolder color like Perfect Blue (Chevrolet’s official name, and an accurate description) helps it stand out from mundane traffic. Quad exhaust outlets hint at its performance capabilities. Enthusiasts sometimes swap the Chevrolet badges for Holden emblems, a nod to its Australian origins and a detail that resonates with car aficionados.
While the Chevy SS 4 door sedan might not grab attention at a typical car show, its appeal lies in its understated performance and hidden depth. True enthusiasts recognize its brilliance.
Others Sports Cars to Consider
(This section is intentionally left open for future expansion with competitor models relevant to the Chevy SS 4 door sedan)
The Chevrolet SS 4 Door Sedan is Proof That the Car Community Doesn’t Know What It Wants
The Chevy SS 4 door sedan’s lukewarm reception in the market serves as a case study in automotive consumer behavior. A truly exceptional performance sedan, offering V8 power, a manual transmission, and a finely tuned chassis at a reasonable price, was largely ignored by the buying public.
In a quest to find a successor to the SS after its discontinuation, a Kia Stinger was briefly considered. While the Stinger offered competent dynamics, the ownership experience proved underwhelming, leading to its departure after a mere three weeks. Lesson learned.
While Chevrolet’s reputation for quality hasn’t always been stellar, the Chevy SS 4 door sedan bucks this trend. It’s a relatively straightforward machine by modern standards, with no widespread reliability issues reported.
So, why didn’t it resonate with buyers? The badge, perhaps? Brand perception can be a powerful force in the automotive market. Maybe maturity involves realizing that brand prestige is less important than driving enjoyment and genuine performance. Even BMW’s brand cachet has arguably diminished somewhat in recent years. While the Chevy SS 4 door sedan is no longer in production, the Cadillac Blackwing models carry the torch for high-performance GM sedans. However, even these exceptional machines don’t seem to be flying off dealership lots. The era of the performance sedan, as we know it, may be drawing to a close.
Let the record be clear: the Chevrolet SS 4 door sedan is unequivocally one of the finest modern performance sedans ever created. Before you place a bid on that classic E39 M5, seriously consider experiencing the often-overlooked brilliance of a Chevy SS 4 door sedan.
We haven’t quite reached the automotive pearly gates just yet.
Special thanks to Tom for providing his remarkable Chevrolet SS 4 door sedan for this review!
The Chevy SS 4 door sedan’s rear end, showcasing its subtle spoiler and clean lines.
2016 Chevrolet SS 4 Door Sedan Specifications
Vehicle Type: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, four-door, five-passenger sedan.
PRICE
Base: $48,920
POWERTRAIN
6.2 liter naturally aspirated V-8
415 horsepower @ 5,900 rpm
415 lb-ft of torque @ 4,600 rpm
Six-speed manual
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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