As the automotive world shifts towards electrification, the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 engine and the thrill of rear-wheel drive are becoming increasingly precious. For those who appreciate the classic formula of American muscle combined with sedan practicality, the Chevy SS stands out as a modern marvel, albeit one that was tragically overlooked in its time. This rear-wheel drive gem, with its potent LS3 engine and engaging chassis, is a reminder of what driving purists truly cherish, and why you might regret not giving it a second look.
Get one
- Potent LS3 V8 engine and exhilarating sound
- Superb rear-wheel drive chassis for dynamic handling
- Capable of outperforming established European sports sedans
Don’t get one
- Subdued styling may not appeal to everyone
- Some might find the brakes and steering feedback slightly lacking compared to track-focused cars
- Infotainment system is showing its age
Soul Score
9/10
A true testament to rear-wheel drive performance and V8 power in a sedan.
Quick Facts about the Chevrolet SS and its Rear Wheel Drive Prowess
Why is the Chevy SS with Rear Wheel Drive so rare?
The Chevy SS, a rear-wheel drive performance sedan, had a limited production run of only four years, resulting in just 12,860 units. Born from the Holden Commodore platform – essentially an Australian Chevrolet – the SS was intended to replace the Pontiac G8, another rear-wheel drive sedan. When Pontiac was discontinued, GM still had commitments to Holden, leading to the creation of the Chevy SS for the US market as a rear-wheel drive offering.
Why was the Rear Wheel Drive Chevy SS discontinued?
The Chevy SS’s fate was tied to its Australian roots. It shared its rear-wheel drive platform with the Holden Commodore, which ceased production in 2017. With dwindling sales numbers and the discontinuation of its Holden counterpart, GM ended production of the Chevy SS, marking the end of a unique rear-wheel drive performance sedan in their lineup.
What does Chevy SS stand for in the context of Rear Wheel Drive Performance?
Super Sport. The “SS” designation, synonymous with Chevrolet performance, dates back to 1956. It was initially applied to the C1 Corvette built for racing, highlighting its performance intentions. In 1961, Chevrolet expanded the SS lineage to the Impala sedan, creating the spiritual predecessor to the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS we admire today. The SS badge signifies enhanced performance, particularly in a rear-wheel drive configuration.
Is the Chevy SS Rear Wheel Drive configuration rare?
Considering its target market, yes. While the Holden Commodore, its nearly identical Australian sibling, saw over 127,000 units produced from 2013 to 2019, these are not directly importable to the US due to age restrictions. The Chevy SS, specifically designed as a rear-wheel drive sedan for the American market, was produced from 2014 to 2017, with just over 12,000 units reaching US shores. For a mainstream audience seeking a rear-wheel drive performance sedan, the Chevrolet SS is indeed a rare find.
The 2016 Chevrolet SS Overview: A Rear Wheel Drive Dream
Alt text: Perfectly framed Chevrolet SS showcasing its subtle yet sporty design.
What are the hallmarks of a desirable sports sedan? An expertly tuned chassis that balances agility with ride comfort. The tactile engagement of a manual transmission. Understated yet sophisticated styling. And, crucially, abundant power delivered to the rear wheels.
The Chevrolet SS, with its rear-wheel drive layout, delivers on all these fronts and more. Yet, despite its compelling package, sales were limited to a mere 12,000 units throughout its production lifespan. Priced around $44,000 when new, this Australian-imported (Holden-engineered) sedan marked Chevrolet’s return to the rear-wheel drive, V8-powered sedan segment after a 15-year hiatus.
It’s as if the automotive enthusiasts cried out: “Oh please, Big Car Company, build us an affordable rear-wheel drive performance sedan akin to the E39 M5, and we will buy it!” However, the sales figures tell a different story.
Dodge moves Chargers in significant numbers, but the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS is arguably the superior machine.
Now, with production ceased, the secret is getting out. Used Chevy SS models are holding their value, often selling for prices comparable to their original MSRP a decade ago. Yet, for discerning drivers, the rear-wheel drive performance and overall package remain a bargain.
Can this review persuade you that a rear-wheel drive Chevrolet SS deserves a place in your garage, perhaps even over a celebrated BMW M car? Let’s delve deeper.
Performance Score: 9. Rear Wheel Drive Excitement Realized
Alt text: Chevrolet SS in motion, emphasizing its dynamic rear-wheel drive handling.
When the Chevy SS arrived, automotive publications were quick to draw comparisons with the E39 M5. To some, this comparison might have seemed audacious, even insulting to the established European benchmark.
“Keep that Chevy away from the revered Bimmer!” some purists might have exclaimed.
However, the comparison was not unfounded. The rear-wheel drive Chevrolet SS transcends its seemingly ordinary components. It delivers a driving experience that is remarkably close to a four-door Corvette, offering pure, unadulterated rear-wheel drive thrills.
Engine: The Heart of the Rear Wheel Drive Beast
A naturally aspirated masterpiece, the LS3 engine, delivers 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque with a soundtrack that needs no artificial enhancement. This engine exemplifies what some found lacking in engines like the S65 and even the acclaimed S62.
The LS3 in the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS produces a glorious roar straight from the factory, arguably more sonorous than many M cars. The torque figure mirrors the horsepower, achieved without resorting to forced induction or stratospheric redlines, highlighting the engine’s inherent strength and responsiveness in a rear-wheel drive application.
Alt text: Close-up of the Chevy SS quad exhaust, hinting at the powerful V8 and rear-wheel drive performance.
Peak power arrives just shy of the 6,000 RPM redline, offering a broad and usable powerband perfectly suited to rear-wheel drive dynamics. The throttle response is immediate and intuitive, allowing for precise control and exhilarating acceleration without unsettling the chassis, making the most of the rear-wheel drive configuration. Exploring the engine’s full rev range is a constant source of driving pleasure.
The exhaust note is a rich, throaty growl that perfectly complements the rear-wheel drive experience. If you perceive the SS as lacking outright speed, consider the engine’s character as akin to a fine wine – something to be savored and appreciated. Unlike some overpowered cars where the thrill is fleeting, the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS offers sustained engagement and enjoyment.
And for those seeking even more power in their rear-wheel drive sedan? Supercharger kits are readily available for under $8,000, unlocking even greater potential.
Transmission: A Manual Mate for Rear Wheel Drive Bliss
The short-throw shifter is a tactile delight, encouraging frequent gear changes and maximizing driver engagement with the rear-wheel drive system. The test car featured an aftermarket clutch with a slightly firmer feel, but the overall experience remains exceptional. The desire to hear the engine sing and to engage with the gearbox is ever-present, making missed shifts virtually impossible. This is the kind of gearbox that elevates the entire rear-wheel drive driving experience.
Chevrolet did offer an automatic transmission in the SS, but for true enthusiasts, the manual is the only way to fully appreciate the rear-wheel drive character of this sedan. Opting for the automatic in a car like this might be considered a missed opportunity to connect with the machine.
Steering and Chassis: Rear Wheel Drive Precision and Balance
Alt text: Chevy SS steering wheel and dashboard, showcasing driver-centric design and rear-wheel drive control.
If GM channeled this level of chassis engineering into all their vehicles, the automotive landscape might look very different. It took Australian expertise to craft a sedan with such impressive rear-wheel drive dynamics.
Upon taking the wheel, the steering immediately communicates the car’s intentions. There’s a minimal dead zone at the center, but as you initiate a turn, feedback progressively builds, instilling confidence and highlighting the expertly tuned rear-wheel drive chassis. The steering wheel itself, while functional, could benefit from a sportier design and feel to better match the car’s capabilities.
The ride height strikes a near-perfect balance, contributing to both the car’s stance and handling prowess. GM’s acclaimed magnetic ride control, standard from 2015 onwards, offers Tour, Sport, and Performance modes. Sport mode proved ideal, delivering the characteristic blend of ride comfort and body control that magnetic dampers are known for. In this regard, the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS echoes the brilliance of a baby Blackwing, or perhaps even a full-fledged Blackwing.
Alt text: Chevy SS drive mode selector, emphasizing the customizable rear-wheel drive handling experience.
Despite damp road conditions during the test drive, the rear-wheel drive SS remained composed and predictable. Turn-in is remarkably sharp, defying its 4,000-pound curb weight, and body motions are well-controlled with minimal squat or dive. The suspension absorbs bumps with remarkable composure, offering a ride quality that surpasses even a G80 M3..
While the ride height might be slightly elevated for a contemporary sedan, the overall chassis tuning is exceptional, especially for a rear-wheel drive performance machine.
Brakes: Confident Stopping Power for Rear Wheel Drive Performance
The Chevy SS features four-piston Brembo brakes up front, clamping down on slotted and vented discs, providing ample stopping power. However, the brake pedal feel is softer than some might prefer, particularly those accustomed to more track-focused cars. The test car was equipped with track-oriented brake pads, which might have contributed to the slightly less responsive feel in cooler, wet conditions. Nevertheless, the brakes are effective and confidence-inspiring, more than capable of handling spirited rear-wheel drive driving.
Alt text: Brembo brakes on the Chevy SS, highlighting its performance-oriented stopping power for rear-wheel drive dynamics.
The wet conditions during the evaluation limited the opportunity to fully explore the SS’s braking limits. However, the car’s immediate sense of sure-footedness in the wet speaks volumes about its chassis balance and overall engineering. The rear-wheel drive Chevy SS boasts a chassis that rivals cars nearly a decade newer, making it a heartbreaking realization that a modern equivalent is absent unless you’re willing to spend significantly more on a Cadillac.
Lifestyle Score: 7. A Spacious Rear Wheel Drive Sedan
The Chevy SS is a substantial vehicle. At 195 inches in length, it mirrors the dimensions of a BMW 5 Series.. While not inherently nimble in tight urban environments, the size translates to generous interior space, comfortably accommodating four adults. The rear-wheel drive configuration doesn’t compromise interior space.
Rear passenger legroom and headroom are ample, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently transport passengers.
Trunk capacity is slightly less than the 530i, but still offers a usefully shaped cargo area. In terms of daily usability, the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS presents no significant drawbacks.
Fuel Economy: 4. Thirsty for a Rear Wheel Drive Thrill
Alt text: Side profile of the Chevy SS, subtle styling that hides its rear-wheel drive performance capabilities.
Fuel economy is not a strong suit of the Chevy SS, especially when enjoying its rear-wheel drive performance and V8 power. EPA estimates suggest 14 MPG combined for manual transmission models. In real-world driving, particularly when exploiting the car’s performance potential, fuel consumption is likely to be even higher.
While more technologically advanced V8 engines, often turbocharged, can achieve better fuel economy figures, the naturally aspirated LS3 in the SS offers a different kind of driving experience. Compared to the Lexus IS-F (which achieves 16 MPG combined with an automatic), the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS is arguably the more engaging and rewarding sedan to drive. Considering their comparable used prices, the choice becomes clearer for driving enthusiasts.
Features and Comfort: 7. A Comfortable and Well-Equipped Rear Wheel Drive Cruiser
The interior of the Chevy SS surpasses expectations for an American car, rivaling even some Cadillacs in terms of material quality and design. The cabin feels surprisingly modern, with Alcantara accents, a functional infotainment system, and even a heads-up display.
The exterior styling is deliberately understated. Its resemblance to a Malibu might lead some to underestimate its rear-wheel drive performance capabilities. However, beneath the subtle skin lies a potent and engaging sports sedan.
Darth Couch: A Comfortable and Functional Interior for a Rear Wheel Drive Sedan
Alt text: Chevy SS interior detail, showing Alcantara trim, red stitching, and modern features in a rear-wheel drive sedan.
Stepping into the all-black interior evokes a sense of comfortable containment. The seats are supportive and well-bolstered, although a slightly longer bottom cushion would be welcome. The leather upholstery, while durable, lacks the supple feel of premium materials like Merino leather.
Alt text: Chevy SS dashboard and controls, highlighting the user-friendly layout and physical dials in a rear-wheel drive car.
The infotainment system, while not the most cutting-edge, remains functional and user-friendly. Dual-zone climate controls add to passenger comfort. Physical dials for essential functions are a welcome touch in an era of touch-sensitive interfaces. Gloss black trim elements elevate the perceived quality, and details like drilled pedals (though not floor-mounted) add a sporty touch.
Chevrolet makes sure you are aware you’re in an SS, with badges subtly placed throughout the interior.
Alt text: Close-up of Chevy SS seats, emphasizing comfort and support in a performance-oriented rear-wheel drive sedan.
Concerns that the SS’s interior didn’t match its price point seem unfounded, especially when compared to competitors like the F30 3 Series..
Golden Holden: Australian Engineering Underneath the Chevy Badge
GM’s ownership of Holden until 2020 explains the Chevy SS’s Australian connection. The SS was discontinued not due to lack of merit, but because the Holden Commodore, its source, was no longer in production.
The SS rides on GM’s rear-drive Zeta platform, distinct from the front-wheel drive Epsilon platform used for the Chevrolet Malibu. Despite their visual similarities, they are fundamentally different cars. This is akin to making an M3 resemble a 2 Series Gran Coupe in appearance.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of the Chevy SS, showcasing its aggressive front fascia and subtle sporty styling.
The resulting styling is far from unattractive – subtly aggressive and refined. Opting for a bolder color like Perfect Blue enhances its visual presence. Quad exhaust outlets hint at its performance intentions. Swapping Chevrolet badges for Holden emblems is a popular modification among enthusiasts, adding to its unique appeal as an imported rear-wheel drive exotic.
While the design might not scream “performance sedan” to the casual observer, true enthusiasts recognize the gem that lies beneath the surface of this rear-wheel drive machine.
Other Sports Cars to Consider: Rear Wheel Drive Alternatives
- BMW M3/M5 (E39, E60, F80, G80): Established benchmarks in the sports sedan segment, known for their performance and handling, though often at a higher price point.
- Cadillac Blackwing (CT4-V, CT5-V): Modern American rear-wheel drive performance sedans, offering comparable performance to the SS but with more contemporary styling and technology, and a higher price tag.
- Dodge Charger SRT/Hellcat: More overtly styled and powerful rear-wheel drive sedans, offering a different kind of American muscle car experience.
- Lexus IS-F/GS-F: Reliable and refined Japanese rear-wheel drive performance sedans, offering a blend of luxury and sporting character.
The Chevrolet SS: Proof That the Car Community Missed a Rear Wheel Drive Gem
A brief and regrettable stint with a Kia Stinger followed the SS test drive.. While dynamically competent, the ownership experience fell short, leading to a quick departure.
Chevrolet’s reputation for quality has improved in recent years, and the SS, in its relative simplicity, is a testament to that. Reliability concerns are minimal.
So, why was the rear-wheel drive Chevy SS overlooked? The badge, perhaps? Brand perception can be a powerful force. However, maturity in car enthusiasm might involve recognizing that the badge is not the sole determinant of driving enjoyment. Even BMW’s prestige isn’t what it once was. While the SS is no longer in production, the Blackwing carries the torch for American rear-wheel drive performance sedans, yet even those struggle for widespread recognition.
Let the record be clear: the Chevrolet SS is one of the finest modern rear-wheel drive performance sedans ever produced. Before considering a E39 M5, a serious evaluation of the SS is warranted.
The era of exceptional rear-wheel drive performance sedans is not yet over, and the Chevy SS remains a shining example.
Special thanks to Tom for providing his exceptional Chevrolet SS for this review!
Alt text: Rear view of the Chevy SS, highlighting its quad exhaust and subtle rear spoiler, emphasizing rear-wheel drive performance.
2016 Chevrolet SS Specifications: Rear Wheel Drive Performance Details
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 @ 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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