How much power can a Chevy SS make?
In stock form, the Chevy SS delivers about 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. With the right modifications, it can be built to substantially higher output, potentially reaching well into the 500–700+ horsepower range depending on the setup.
The Chevrolet SS was produced from 2014 through 2017 as a U.S.-market, rear-wheel-drive sedan based on the Holden Commodore. Its heart is a 6.2-liter LT1 V8 paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a solid foundation for aftermarket tuning. Note that Chevrolet ended the SS line after 2017, so any power gains come from aftermarket work on existing chassis and engines rather than factory upgrades.
Stock power and performance
The following are the key stock specifications for the Chevy SS in its original form.
- Engine: 6.2L LT1 V8
- Horsepower: 415 hp
- Torque: 415 lb-ft
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (6L80)
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
- Model years: 2014–2017 in the United States
In stock form, the Chevy SS is a capable V8 sports sedan with strong mid-range punch and all-around performance suitable for daily driving and confident highway merging.
Power potential with modifications
Owners look to several paths to increase power, each with its own typical outcomes. The following list outlines common categories and what they can produce, in broad terms.
- Bolt-ons and tuning (intake, throttle body, exhaust, and ECU tunes): roughly +40–100+ hp at the crank, depending on parts and calibration.
- Exhaust upgrades and headers: an additional ~20–60 hp on top of bolt-ons, with dyno results varying by exhaust design.
- Cam and top-end upgrades (camshaft, springs, and supporting hardware): about +60–150 hp, depending on the setup and accompanying work.
- Forced induction kits (supercharger or turbocharger): commonly +250–500+ hp, with total crank output often in the 500–700+ hp range, depending on kit, boost, and fueling support.
- Fuel-system and supporting mods (injectors, pumps, calibrations): required for higher power levels to ensure reliability and proper fueling.
These gains are highly dependent on the quality of the build, tuning expertise, and supporting hardware. Gains at the wheels will usually be slightly less than crank horsepower due to drivetrain losses, and higher power levels should be accompanied by upgraded braking, suspension, and cooling systems. Be mindful that extensive modifications can affect warranty coverage and insurance, and some jurisdictions have rules about emissions and registration.
Summary
The Chevy SS leaves the showroom with 415 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque from its LT1 V8. Enthusiasts can push far beyond that with careful, well-planned modifications—especially with forced-induction kits—potentially reaching 500–700+ hp at the crank. Real-world results vary based on parts, tuning, and supporting upgrades, and potential owners should consider reliability, safety, and regulatory implications when building toward high power targets.
