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What does SS mean on a Chevy?

The "SS" on a Chevy vehicle stands for "Super Sport." This is a high-performance trim level or package that has been offered on various Chevrolet models over the years, adding more powerful engines, sportier styling, and enhanced handling capabilities.


The History of the Chevy SS


The Chevy SS nameplate first appeared in 1961 on the Impala model, which featured a more powerful V8 engine, upgraded suspension, and distinctive exterior styling cues. Over the decades, the SS package has been available on other Chevrolet models, including the Chevelle, Camaro, Monte Carlo, and Malibu.


The SS trim is designed to provide a more thrilling driving experience, with features like:



  • Larger, more powerful engines (often V8s)

  • Performance-tuned suspension and brakes

  • Unique exterior styling elements like spoilers, badges, and wheels

  • Sport-oriented interior features like bolstered seats and a performance-focused gauge cluster


The SS package has evolved over time, with different levels of performance and equipment depending on the specific Chevy model and the era in which it was offered.


The Modern Chevy SS


In more recent years, the Chevy SS nameplate has been used on a high-performance, rear-wheel-drive sedan that was produced from 2013 to 2017. This modern Chevy SS was powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine and featured a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a range of other performance-enhancing components.


While the Chevy SS sedan is no longer in production, the SS trim level continues to be offered on other Chevrolet models, such as the Camaro and Silverado, providing enthusiasts with a more powerful and engaging driving experience.

What is a Chevy SS engine?


The Chevy SS comes with a 6.2-liter V8 LS3 engine, which outputs 415 HP and 415 lb-ft of torque, mounted to a 6-speed automatic transmission with TAPshift paddles.



What makes a Chevy a SS?


Super Sport, or SS, is the signature performance option package offered by the Chevrolet division of General Motors on a limited number of its vehicles. All SS models come with distinctive "SS" markings on their exterior. The SS package was first made available for the 1961 Impala.



What engine comes in the SS?


6.2-liter V8 engine
Acceleration and Power
A 6.2-liter V8 engine that puts out 415 horsepower is standard in the SS. The engine also puts out 415 pound-feet of torque, and it's mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual is available at no extra charge.



What does the SS mean on the dashboard?


Super Sport
If you see a car with an SS indication, know that the SS stands for Super Sport. This vehicle comes from the Chevrolet brand, providing an option in many of their iconic models like the Impala, Camaro, and Nova. It's been discontinued many times, but there are still SS versions drifting around between drivers.



Is SS faster than ZL1?


Performance: Due to the more powerful engine, the ZL1 offers superior performance compared to the SS. The ZL1 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, while the SS takes around 4 seconds to achieve the same speed. The ZL1 also has a higher top speed, capable of reaching 198 mph compared to the SSs 165 mph.



Are Chevy SS illegal in the US?


Starting in 2021, the copper content in these Camaros' Brembo brakes becomes illegal. Chevy wouldn't say why the brakes didn't change prior to the rule change. Chevrolet won't be able to sell the Camaro SS, 1LE, and ZL1 in California and Washington beginning next year due to the copper content of the brake pads.



Is the Chevy SS rare?


This car is rare, though, unlike the VehiCROSS, it's not because it was built in a manner that would naturally limit production numbers. Instead, just 12,924 examples of the Chevrolet SS exist and of those, only 2,645 were equipped with a manual transmission. The Chevy SS is sort of like a case study.



What is SS vs RS Chevy?


The SS (Super Sport) is faster than the RS (Rally Sport). The SS has a 6.2 liter V8 - 455 hp capable of 0-60 in 4 seconds. The RS has a 3.6 liter V6 - 335 hp capable of 0–60 in 6 seconds. There are also subtle differences in the appearance such as a vented hood and Brembo brakes on the SS.



Is a SS a v6 or V8?


SS. The SS model is equipped with a 6.2L LT1 V8 engine offered both as a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. Chevrolet reports the SS capable of 455 horsepower (339 kW; 461 PS) and 455 lb⋅ft (617 N⋅m; 63 kg⋅m) of torque, performing 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.0 seconds.



What did Chevy SS stand for?


Super Sport
Super Sport, or SS, is the signature performance option package offered by the Chevrolet division of General Motors on a limited number of its vehicles. All SS models come with distinctive "SS" markings on their exterior. The SS package was first made available for the 1961 Impala.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.