As the automotive world increasingly shifts towards electric vehicles and front-wheel drive platforms, the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 powering a rear-wheel drive sedan is becoming a nostalgic echo. For those of us who appreciate the visceral thrill of classic muscle car dynamics combined with modern sedan comfort, the Chevrolet SS stands as a poignant reminder of what we’re losing. This wasn’t just another Chevy; it was a true-blue performance machine cloaked in unassuming sedan sheet metal, a wolf in sheep’s clothing that sadly, most of us overlooked.
And yes, you might be part of the reason why cars like this are becoming relics.
Why You Should Hunt for a Chevy SS Rear Wheel Drive Model:
- Potent LS3 V8 engine and exhilarating sound
- Superb chassis balance and handling
- Capable of embarrassing even well-regarded European sport sedans
Reasons Why It Flew Under the Radar:
- Suffered from a perceived lack of brand prestige
- Steering and brakes could be more aggressively tuned
- Infotainment felt dated for its production era
Soul Score
9/10
A budget-friendly Blackwing with a bowtie badge.
Quick Facts about the Chevrolet SS Rear Wheel Drive Sedan
Why is the Chevy SS so uncommon?
The Chevrolet SS, a rear wheel drive performance sedan, had a brief production run of only four years, with a total of just 12,860 units manufactured. Born from the bones of the Australian Holden Commodore, itself a rear-wheel drive platform, the SS was conceived as a successor to the Pontiac G8. The G8, a similarly impressive sedan, was a casualty of Pontiac’s demise. However, a prior agreement between Holden and GM for the G8’s import paved the way for the Chevy SS to enter the US market.
Despite GM’s restructuring and the phasing out of Pontiac, the commitment to Holden remained. The Chevrolet SS was thus born to fulfill this agreement, offering American enthusiasts a taste of Australian rear wheel drive performance.
What Led to the Chevy SS Being Discontinued?
The Chevy SS’s fate was tied to its Australian sibling, the Holden Commodore. Both cars shared the same platform, and when Holden ceased Commodore production in 2017, the writing was on the wall for the SS. Low sales volume coupled with the discontinuation of its production source led GM to halt Chevy SS production as well.
What Does Chevy SS Actually Mean?
SS stands for Super Sport. This designation has a rich history within Chevrolet, dating back to 1956, when it first appeared on a racing-focused C1 Corvette. In 1961, the SS package was offered on the Impala sedan, which many consider the spiritual forebear of the Chevrolet SS rear wheel drive sedan we’re discussing today.
Is the Chevy SS Truly Rare?
Rarity is relative. The Holden Commodore, the Chevy SS’s near-identical Australian counterpart, saw production from 2013 to 2019, with over 127,000 units rolling off the assembly lines. However, current import regulations prevent direct importation of these Commodores into the US due to their age.
The Chevrolet SS, specifically sold in the US from 2014 to 2017, is a different story. With just over 12,000 units imported to American shores, the Chevy SS is indeed a rare car, especially considering it was aimed at a mainstream audience looking for a rear wheel drive performance sedan.
The 2016 Chevrolet SS Overview: A Missed Opportunity
What are the essential ingredients for a compelling sports sedan? A responsive and comfortable chassis. The option of a manual transmission. Understated yet handsome styling. And of course, power.
Abundant power.
The Chevrolet SS delivered on all these fronts, and then some. Yet, its sales figures were dismal, with only around 12,000 finding homes during its five-year lifespan. Priced affordably, with a new MSRP around $44,000, this rear wheel drive marvel, imported from Australia and essentially a Holden in disguise, marked Chevrolet’s return to V8-powered, rear-wheel drive sedans after a 15-year hiatus.
Remember the cries of enthusiasts: “Oh please, automotive giants, build us an affordable performance sedan that can rival the legendary E39 M5, and we’ll buy it!” Turns out, many were just paying lip service.
Dodge sells Chargers by the truckload, and while those have their own appeal, the Chevy SS was arguably a superior machine.
Now, the secret is slowly getting out. Used Chevy SS models are fetching prices comparable to their original MSRP from a decade ago. However, even at today’s prices, they remain a performance bargain.
Can this review finally convince you why you should be considering a Chevy SS, a rear wheel drive gem, instead of chasing after another BMW M car? Let’s delve deeper.
Performance Score: 9/10 – Performance Dreams Realized
When the Chevy SS arrived, automotive publications rushed to pit it against the benchmark E39 M5. Some BMW purists might have found this comparison sacrilegious.
“Keep that Chevy away from the Bimmer,” they might have scoffed from their leather-clad thrones.
But the comparison was valid, and arguably, overdue. Dismiss the Chevy SS as just another “small-block” or “pushrod” powered sedan at your peril. This rear wheel drive machine transcends its seemingly ordinary components. It’s as close to a four-door Corvette as you could get.
Engine: The Heart of the Beast
A magnificent engine, naturally aspirated and gloriously vocal, producing 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This LS3 engine is a masterclass in what some feel was lacking in engines like the BMW S65 (and even the revered S62).
Here’s an engine that sings a thrilling song straight from the factory, louder and more characterful than many M cars. The torque curve is broad and meaty, matching the horsepower figure without resorting to forced induction or stratospheric redlines.
Don’t be misled; peak power arrives just shy of the 6,000 RPM redline. The throttle response is razor-sharp, providing precise control and making it easy to manage the chassis dynamics right from the get-go. Exploring the full rev range of this engine is pure joy.
The exhaust note is a rich, throaty bellow. If you ever question the SS’s pace, consider the engine experience akin to a fine wine tasting – meant to be savored and appreciated. In a Dodge Hellcat, you’re at warp speed in an instant, but the thrill is fleeting. With the SS, the joy is in the journey, the build-up, the engagement.
Still craving more power? Supercharger kits for the LS3 start at surprisingly reasonable prices, under $8,000.
Transmission: A Manual Masterpiece
A short-throw shifter that’s intensely rewarding to operate. Yes, the manual transmission in the Chevy SS is truly exceptional. This particular test car had an aftermarket clutch with a slightly heavier feel, but the overall experience was sublime. You’re constantly drawn to engage with the engine, shifting gears simply for the tactile and auditory pleasure. Missed shifts are virtually impossible. This gearbox is so satisfying, it could have been the stunt double for Vin Diesel’s hand in the Fast and Furious franchise during those close-up shifting scenes.
Snick. Snick. Ahhh.
Chevrolet did offer an automatic transmission option for the SS, but if you opted for it, consider this website’s content locked behind a subscription just for you. You might as well resign yourself to driving an appliance-like A4 and embodying the very definition of traffic congestion.
Steering and Chassis: Australian Ingenuity
An unassuming steering wheel belies the excellent feedback it provides. If only GM poured this level of chassis engineering into their mainstream sedans, we might be reviewing a truly exciting 2024 Malibu. Sadly, it took Australian expertise to craft a sedan this dynamically capable.
Slide into the driver’s seat and turn the wheel. There’s a hint of on-center deadness, but as you initiate a turn, feedback progressively builds, leaving you marveling at the chassis tuning. It makes you wonder why Australia hasn’t taken over the world with their engineering prowess. If there’s a minor critique, it might be directed at the steering wheel itself. Its shape and feel aren’t particularly sporty, which feels like a slight mismatch for a car with such dynamic potential.
Even the ride height hits the sweet spot. GM’s acclaimed Magnetic Ride Control suspension became standard in 2015, offering Tour, Sport, and Performance modes. The car was tested primarily in Sport mode, and even in monsoon-like conditions, it felt perfectly calibrated, striking that ideal balance of ride comfort and body control that these magnetic dampers are known for. In this aspect, it echoes the brilliance of a baby Blackwing, or perhaps even a full-fledged Cadillac Blackwing – they are surprisingly similar in size.
Adjustable drive modes refine both engine and suspension characteristics. Despite the deluge, the car remained composed and confidence-inspiring. Turn-in is remarkably crisp, defying its 4,000-pound curb weight. Body control is excellent, with minimal squat or dive under acceleration and braking. It absorbs bumps with remarkable composure – offering a ride quality that surpasses even a G80 M3.
Perhaps the ride height is a touch elevated, typical of modern sedans. Beyond that minor point, the chassis is near perfection.
Brakes: Competent, Not Cutting Edge
Four-piston Brembo brakes provide ample stopping power. If the Chevy SS has a minor weakness, it might be the brake pedal feel, which is softer than some might prefer. This isn’t a hardware limitation; the car is equipped with robust four-piston Brembo calipers up front, clamping down on slotted and vented discs. The test car was also fitted with track-oriented brake pads, which might have been less effective in the cool, wet conditions. Nonetheless, the brakes are functionally strong, and with a bit of acclimatization, they won’t hinder your pursuit of driving bliss.
Due to the torrential rain, pushing the SS to its absolute limits wasn’t feasible. However, the immediate sense of confidence and comfort in challenging conditions speaks volumes. Only truly exceptional cars inspire such trust. The Chevy SS boasts a chassis that remains competitive with cars nearly a decade newer, and it’s disheartening that a modern equivalent is absent unless you’re prepared to spend six figures on a Cadillac.
Lifestyle Score: 7/10 – Practical Performance
The rear seats offer generous passenger space. The Chevrolet SS is a substantial sedan. Measuring 195 inches in length, it mirrors the dimensions of a BMW 5 Series. While not exactly nimble in tight urban environments, its size translates to a spacious cabin, comfortably accommodating four adults.
Trunk capacity is slightly less than the aforementioned 530i, but still offers a practical and usable shape. In terms of everyday usability, the SS presents no significant drawbacks. It’s a performance sedan that seamlessly integrates into daily life.
Fuel Economy: 4/10 – Fuel Consumption is a Consideration
Do decorative vents improve fuel efficiency? Realistically, fuel economy isn’t a strong suit. The EPA estimates 14 MPG combined for the manual transmission model. Driven with enthusiasm, as the SS encourages, real-world figures will likely be lower.
More modern, turbocharged V8 engines often achieve better fuel efficiency. However, consider this: the Lexus IS-F, with an automatic transmission, manages only 16 MPG combined. And when it comes to driver engagement and fun, the Chevy SS is the clear victor. Given their comparable used prices, the choice is straightforward for performance-minded buyers.
Interior & Technology: 7/10 – A Comfortable and Well-Equipped Cabin
This might sound like faint praise, but the Chevrolet SS features arguably the nicest interior of any American car outside of the Cadillac stable (which occupies a higher price bracket). The interior design, with Alcantara accents, a functional infotainment system, and even a heads-up display, wouldn’t feel out of place in a contemporary car.
The exterior styling is intentionally subdued. One might even mistake it for a Malibu at first glance. The overall effect is akin to the Hulk wearing a perfectly tailored suit – powerful capabilities hidden beneath a relatively ordinary exterior.
Darth Couch: A Blacked-Out Sanctuary
Attention to detail is evident, from gloss black trim to red stitching. The HUD is a subtle yet appreciated modern feature. Stepping into the all-black interior evokes a sense of…comfort and purpose. The seats are excellent, providing ample support and bolstering in key areas (though a slightly longer bottom cushion would be welcome). However, the leather upholstery is undeniably robust, perhaps overly so – reminiscent of chewing on a tough, overcooked steak. A touch of softer Merino leather would elevate the experience significantly (Cadillac, take note as well).
Traditional dials maintain a sporty aesthetic. The infotainment system, while featuring a smaller screen and feeling somewhat dated, remains functional. Dual-zone climate controls keep both driver and passenger content. Physical dials and buttons are logically arranged and feel a step above the budget-oriented interiors found in some Dodge models. Gloss black trim on the door panels adds a touch of refinement, and drilled pedals (though not floor-hinged) are a sporty touch.
Chevrolet clearly wants you to remember you’re in an SS, with badges liberally applied throughout the cabin.
Never let yourself forget which car you’re in. Seats are remarkably comfortable, although the leather could be more supple. Those who criticized the SS’s interior for not feeling sufficiently premium for a near-$50,000 car likely haven’t spent time inside an F30 3 Series BMW.
Golden Holden Heritage
A subtle rear lip spoiler, black trim accents, and unique taillights distinguish the rear. GM owned Holden until 2020, when the 164-year-old Australian brand was shuttered. This closure, not poor sales, ultimately led to the demise of the Chevy SS. The SS relied on the Holden Commodore platform for its existence, and with the Commodore gone, the SS’s supply chain was severed.
It’s important to remember that the SS is built on GM’s rear-drive Zeta platform, completely distinct from the front-wheel drive Epsilon platform underpinning the Chevrolet Malibu. Despite their mechanical differences, their visual similarities are striking, almost like making an M3 look like a 2 Series Gran Coupe.
The front fascia is subtly aggressive and purposeful. The resulting styling is far from offensive – in fact, it possesses a subtle aggression. Opting for a bolder color like this “Perfect Blue” (Chevrolet’s official name, and quite fitting) helps the SS stand out from the commuter car crowd. Quad exhaust outlets hint at its performance intentions, echoing design cues from BMW’s M division. Enthusiasts sometimes swap the Chevrolet badges for Holden emblems, creating a unique imported flavor that brings a smile to car aficionados’ faces.
The exterior incorporates enough vents and creases to pique interest upon closer inspection, though it might blend into the background at a casual car show. That’s perfectly fine; true appreciation for the SS comes from those who understand its hidden depths.
Other Sports Sedans to Consider (If You Can’t Find an SS)
- Dodge Charger R/T or Scat Pack: Readily available, powerful, and visually bolder, but lacks the SS’s refined chassis and manual transmission option.
- Chrysler 300C: Offers V8 power and rear-wheel drive, but leans more towards luxury and comfort than outright performance.
- Ford Taurus SHO (used): A less common but potent twin-turbo V6, all-wheel drive sedan with a sporty character.
- Kia Stinger GT: Stylish and quick, with a twin-turbo V6 and available all-wheel drive, but not as dynamically engaging as the SS.
The Chevrolet SS: Proof That Car Enthusiasts Don’t Always Know What They Want
After the SS was discontinued, a Kia Stinger was tested. It drove well, but ownership proved less satisfying, lasting only three weeks. Lesson learned.
While Chevrolet doesn’t always have the strongest reputation for build quality, they’ve made significant strides. The SS, in relative terms, is a mechanically straightforward car by modern standards. Long-term reliability reports are generally positive.
So, why didn’t the Chevy SS resonate with buyers? Was it simply the badge? Perhaps. Maybe maturity involves recognizing that brand snobbery is less important than genuine driving enjoyment. BMW ownership isn’t the status symbol it once was. While the SS is no longer in production, the Cadillac Blackwing carries the torch for high-performance GM sedans, but even those aren’t flying off dealer lots. They too, will likely be gone before long.
Let the record be clear: the Chevrolet SS is one of the finest modern performance sedans ever created. Before clicking “BID” on that E39 M5, seriously consider tracking down a Chevy Ss Rear Wheel Drive model. You might just find automotive nirvana in an unexpected package.
We haven’t reached the end of the rear-wheel drive performance sedan era just yet, but time is running out.
Special thanks to Tom for allowing us to experience his exceptional Chevrolet SS!
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 V-8, 415 hp @ 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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