In a rapidly changing automotive landscape, the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 engine and the smooth shifts of an automatic transmission are becoming increasingly rare. For those who appreciate the golden age of American performance sedans, the Chevrolet SS stands as a testament to what was and a beacon of what could have been. While often overshadowed, the Chevrolet SS, especially in its automatic guise, offers a compelling blend of power, comfort, and understated style that deserves a second look.
Get one
- Potent LS3 V8 engine with thrilling sound
- Balanced and capable chassis
- Surprising performance that rivals European sports sedans
Don’t get one
- Understated styling can be too subtle for some
- Some may desire sharper steering and braking feel
- Infotainment system shows its age
Soul Score
9/10
A true American performance gem
Quick Facts about the Chevrolet SS Automatic
Why is the Chevy SS Automatic so sought after?
The Chevrolet SS, produced for a brief four-year run with a total of only 12,860 units, is already a rare breed. Its foundation on the Australian Holden Commodore platform, a car with a strong performance pedigree, adds to its allure. Initially conceived to fulfill a prior agreement after the Pontiac G8’s demise, the SS inherited the G8’s spirit but with a Chevrolet badge. The automatic transmission option, while sometimes overlooked by purists, broadens its appeal to those seeking effortless power and daily drivability without sacrificing performance.
What led to the Chevy SS Automatic being discontinued?
The Chevrolet SS’s fate was intertwined with the Holden Commodore in Australia, upon which it was based. When Holden ceased Commodore production in 2017, the SS, with its niche sales volume, naturally followed suit. This limited production run and premature end contribute to the Chevrolet Ss Automatic’s growing desirability among enthusiasts who recognize its unique blend of American muscle and Australian engineering.
What does the ‘SS’ in Chevrolet SS Automatic mean?
‘SS’ is shorthand for Super Sport, a designation deeply rooted in Chevrolet’s performance heritage. It first appeared in 1956 on a racing-oriented C1 Corvette and gained wider recognition with the 1961 Impala SS package, a model considered a spiritual ancestor to the Chevrolet SS. The ‘SS’ badge signifies Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering enhanced performance and sporty character across its vehicle lineup, and the Chevrolet SS Automatic proudly carries this torch.
Is the Chevrolet SS Automatic a rare car?
Compared to mass-market sedans, yes, the Chevrolet SS Automatic is undeniably rare. While the Holden Commodore, its Australian sibling, saw over 127,000 units produced (though not directly importable to the US due to age restrictions), the Chevrolet SS was only available from 2014 to 2017, with just over 12,000 units making their way to American roads. Considering its mainstream market positioning and limited availability, finding a Chevrolet SS Automatic today is a treat, making it a genuinely rare and special performance sedan for discerning drivers.
The 2016 Chevrolet SS Automatic Overview
The Chevrolet SS Automatic presents a subtle yet powerful stance, hinting at its performance capabilities.
What constitutes the ideal sports sedan? A responsive chassis that balances agility with ride comfort. Effortless power delivery. A sophisticated yet understated aesthetic. And yes, substantial power.
The Chevrolet SS Automatic delivers on all these fronts, and more. However, despite its merits, initial sales were modest, with only around 12,000 units sold throughout its production span. Priced around $44,000 when new, it represented remarkable value. This Australian-imported gem marked Chevrolet’s return to the V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive sedan segment after a 15-year hiatus.
“We yearn for an affordable performance sedan, a spiritual successor to the E39 M5!” the enthusiasts cried. Yet, when Chevrolet delivered, the market response was muted.
Dodge Charger’s sales success begs the question – how did this superior offering not achieve similar acclaim?
Now, the secret is out. Used Chevrolet SS Automatic models are appreciating in value, often selling for their original MSRP from a decade ago. Even at current prices, they represent a compelling bargain for the performance and driving experience they offer.
Can this review persuade you that a Chevrolet SS Automatic deserves your consideration, perhaps even over a BMW M car? Let’s delve deeper.
Performance Score: 9. Effortless Power and Grace
The Chevrolet SS Automatic’s LS3 V8 engine delivers exhilarating performance with a classic American soundtrack.
Automotive publications were quick to draw comparisons between the Chevrolet SS and the revered E39 M5. While some might have considered it an unfavorable pairing, it was indeed a valid benchmark.
Dismiss any preconceived notions about “small-block” or “pushrod” engines. The Chevrolet SS Automatic transcends its components. It embodies the spirit of a four-door Corvette, offering a uniquely American take on the performance sedan.
Engine
A naturally aspirated masterpiece, the LS3 engine, delivers 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque with an unadulterated, soul-stirring soundtrack. It stands in stark contrast to engines like the S65 (and even the S62), offering a more visceral and immediately engaging experience.
The LS3’s exhaust note is glorious right from the factory, arguably more sonorous than many contemporary M cars. Its torque curve is broad and accessible, negating the need for forced induction or stratospheric redlines to achieve exhilarating performance.
Despite its robust low-end torque, peak power arrives just shy of the 6,000 RPM redline, rewarding drivers who explore the upper reaches of the rev range. The throttle response is impeccably calibrated, providing precise control and making it a joy to modulate power delivery.
The throaty roar of the Chevrolet SS Automatic’s exhaust is a key element of its driving appeal.
If concerns about outright speed arise, consider the LS3’s power delivery as a refined experience, akin to savoring a fine wine rather than a quick shot of adrenaline. While a Hellcat offers instant, overwhelming power, the Chevrolet SS Automatic provides a more nuanced and usable performance envelope.
And for those seeking even greater power, the aftermarket offers supercharger kits starting under $8,000, unlocking even more potential from the already potent LS3.
Transmission: The Smooth Operator
While the original article lauded the manual transmission, the Chevrolet SS Automatic offers its own distinct appeal. The 6-speed automatic transmission is far from an afterthought; it’s a well-matched partner to the LS3, providing smooth, responsive shifts that enhance the driving experience in various conditions. It’s a testament to a well-engineered traditional automatic, offering a blend of comfort for daily driving and quick responses when you demand performance.
For those who prioritize ease of use in traffic or simply prefer the convenience of an automatic, the Chevrolet SS Automatic is a compelling choice. It allows you to fully exploit the LS3’s power without the need for constant clutch and gear work, making it a more accessible performance sedan for a wider range of drivers. While some purists might still prefer the manual, the automatic in the SS is a capable and enjoyable transmission that doesn’t detract from the car’s sporting character.
Steering and Chassis
The steering wheel of the Chevrolet SS Automatic might be unassuming, but it connects to a highly communicative chassis.
If GM channeled this level of chassis engineering into their mainstream sedans, the automotive landscape might look very different. It took Australian expertise to create a sedan with this level of dynamic prowess.
Behind the wheel, the steering offers a slight initial dead spot, but feedback builds progressively and naturally as you turn in. The chassis’s inherent balance and responsiveness are genuinely surprising, a testament to Holden’s engineering capabilities. While the steering wheel itself might lack the sporty contours of some competitors, the feedback it provides is undeniable.
The ride height is also well-judged, contributing to both the car’s stance and handling. GM’s Magnetic Ride Control, standard from 2015 onwards, further elevates the driving experience, offering Tour, Sport, and Performance modes. Sport mode strikes an ideal balance for spirited driving, providing excellent ride quality without sacrificing body control, a characteristic reminiscent of Cadillac’s Blackwing models.
Adjustable drive modes in the Chevrolet SS Automatic allow drivers to tailor the car’s dynamics to their preferences.
Even in wet conditions, the Chevrolet SS Automatic remains composed and confidence-inspiring. Turn-in is sharp, defying its 4,000-pound curb weight, and body motions are well-controlled. It absorbs bumps with remarkable composure, offering a ride that arguably surpasses even the lauded G80 M3 in terms of outright comfort.
Perhaps the ride height is slightly elevated, typical of modern sedans. Beyond that minor point, the chassis is exceptionally well-sorted.
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 brakes themselves are undeniably effective. With familiarity, drivers will find them more than capable of handling spirited driving and track day excursions.
Even in less-than-ideal conditions, the Chevrolet SS Automatic inspires confidence. Its chassis capabilities are remarkable, especially when compared to newer, less engaging sedans. It’s a poignant reminder of what modern performance sedans can be when engineering prioritizes driver engagement and balanced dynamics. The fact that a comparable experience today requires a significantly larger investment, such as in a Cadillac Blackwing, underscores the SS’s enduring value.
Lifestyle Score: 7. Spacious and Practical
The Chevrolet SS Automatic is a substantial sedan, mirroring the dimensions of a BMW 5 Series at 195 inches long. While not overtly nimble in tight urban environments, its size translates to a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates four adults.
Rear passenger space is generous, ensuring comfortable journeys for all occupants. Trunk capacity, while slightly less than a 5 Series, remains practical and well-shaped, easily accommodating luggage for weekend getaways or daily errands. The Chevrolet SS Automatic is a genuinely usable daily driver, blending performance with everyday practicality.
Fuel Economy: 4. A Thirst for Performance
The Chevrolet SS Automatic’s fuel economy is a tradeoff for its potent V8 performance.
Fuel economy is not a primary virtue of the Chevrolet SS Automatic. EPA estimates suggest 14 MPG combined for the manual version, and real-world figures, especially with enthusiastic driving, are likely to be lower.
While more modern, turbocharged V8s may offer slightly better fuel efficiency, the naturally aspirated LS3 delivers a more immediate and characterful driving experience. Comparisons to the Lexus IS-F, which achieves a similar 16 MPG combined with an automatic, put the SS’s fuel consumption into perspective. Considering their used price point and driving enjoyment, the Chevrolet SS Automatic arguably offers a more compelling proposition for performance enthusiasts.
Features and Comfort: 7. Understated Luxury
The interior of the Chevrolet SS Automatic is surprisingly well-appointed, arguably the nicest in any non-Cadillac American car of its era. Elements like Alcantara trim, a functional infotainment system, and even a heads-up display lend a surprisingly contemporary feel.
The exterior styling is deliberately subtle, perhaps too much so for some. Its unassuming appearance belies the performance lurking beneath, a “Hulk in a Hawaiian shirt” as the original article aptly describes it.
Darth Couch
The Chevrolet SS Automatic’s interior features comfortable seats and surprisingly upscale touches.
The all-black interior creates a comfortable and focused ambiance. The seats are supportive and well-bolstered, though some might desire a slightly longer bottom cushion. The leather upholstery, while durable, lacks the supple feel of premium hides like Merino leather.
The infotainment system, while featuring a smaller screen and dated graphics by modern standards, remains functional and user-friendly. Dual-zone climate controls add to passenger comfort, and physical dials provide intuitive access to essential functions. Gloss black trim accents and drilled pedals (though not floor-mounted) elevate the perceived quality beyond typical domestic sedans.
Chevrolet subtly reminds occupants of the car’s performance credentials with tasteful “SS” badging throughout the interior.
Comfortable and supportive seats are a highlight of the Chevrolet SS Automatic’s interior.
Critics who dismissed the SS’s interior as not befitting a near-$50,000 car likely hadn’t experienced the interiors of contemporary rivals like the F30 3 Series, which often fell short in terms of material quality and design flair.
Golden Holden
The Chevrolet SS Automatic’s front end hints at its Australian Holden Commodore origins.
GM’s ownership of Holden until 2020 explains the Chevrolet SS’s Australian DNA. The SS’s demise wasn’t due to lack of demand but rather the cessation of Holden Commodore production, the source of its import.
It’s crucial to note that the SS shares its rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform with no other Chevrolet sedan in the US market; it’s fundamentally different from the front-wheel-drive Malibu, despite visual similarities. This platform distinction is akin to making an M3 resemble a 2 Series Gran Coupe in appearance only.
The resulting styling is far from unattractive; it’s subtly aggressive and understatedly handsome. Choosing a bolder color like Perfect Blue enhances its visual presence. Quad exhaust outlets and functional vents add sporty cues. For enthusiasts, swapping Chevrolet badges for Holden emblems is a popular modification, subtly highlighting the car’s unique origins and appealing to those in the know. While it might not grab attention at a mainstream car show, true enthusiasts recognize and appreciate the Chevrolet SS Automatic for its inherent qualities.
Other Sports Sedans to Consider
(Original article lists competitors here)
The Chevrolet SS Automatic: A Testament to Unmet Potential
(Original article’s “Final Thoughts” section is adapted and expanded here to better emphasize the automatic and SEO focus)
The Chevrolet SS Automatic serves as a poignant example of a car that the automotive community arguably didn’t fully appreciate in its time. Its blend of potent V8 power, comfortable automatic transmission, balanced handling, and understated luxury should have resonated more strongly with performance sedan buyers.
While badge snobbery and a preference for European marques may have played a role in its modest sales figures, the Chevrolet SS Automatic offers a uniquely American take on the sports sedan formula that deserves recognition. It’s a car that rewards drivers with its engaging dynamics, thrilling engine note, and effortless performance, all wrapped in a package that’s both practical and comfortable for daily use.
Before dismissing the Chevrolet SS Automatic due to its badge or subtle styling, consider experiencing it firsthand. It’s a reminder that driving enjoyment transcends brand perception and that true performance can be found in unexpected places. As the automotive world shifts towards electrification, the Chevrolet SS Automatic stands as a cherished example of a bygone era – a naturally aspirated V8 performance sedan with a smooth automatic, ready to deliver driving pleasure for years to come.
Before you commit to a potentially overhyped and aging E39 M5, take a serious look at a Chevrolet SS Automatic. You might just discover that American performance sedans, especially those with a touch of Australian ingenuity, have a lot more to offer than you think.
Thanks again to Tom for sharing 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 @ 4,600 rpm Six-speed automatic
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 (estimated for automatic – EPA data may vary)
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