What engine does the Chevy SS use?
The Chevy SS, a high-performance sedan produced by Chevrolet, is powered by a robust V8 engine that delivers exceptional power and performance. This article delves into the details of the engine that propels the Chevy SS, providing a comprehensive overview for those interested in this impressive vehicle.
The Engine Powering the Chevy SS
The Chevy SS is equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine, specifically the LS3 engine. The LS3 engine is a naturally aspirated, overhead valve (OHV) V8 engine that produces an impressive 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine is a proven performer, having been used in various high-performance Chevrolet models, including the Corvette and Camaro.
Key Features of the LS3 Engine
The LS3 engine in the Chevy SS boasts several key features that contribute to its impressive power and performance:
- Aluminum block and cylinder heads: The use of lightweight aluminum materials helps to reduce the overall weight of the engine, improving the Chevy SS's power-to-weight ratio.
- Overhead valve (OHV) design: The OHV design, also known as a "pushrod" design, allows for a more compact engine layout, which helps to optimize the weight distribution and handling characteristics of the Chevy SS.
- Direct fuel injection: The LS3 engine utilizes direct fuel injection, which improves combustion efficiency and helps to boost power output.
- Forged steel crankshaft: The robust forged steel crankshaft provides exceptional durability and reliability, allowing the engine to handle the high-performance demands of the Chevy SS.
These features, combined with the engine's large displacement and high-revving capabilities, make the LS3 V8 a perfect match for the Chevy SS, delivering the power and performance that enthusiasts demand.
Transmission Options
The Chevy SS is available with two transmission options to complement the powerful LS3 engine:
- 6-speed manual transmission: For those who prefer a more engaging driving experience, the Chevy SS can be equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission.
- 6-speed automatic transmission: Alternatively, the Chevy SS can be ordered with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and efficient power delivery.
Both transmission options are designed to work seamlessly with the LS3 engine, ensuring that the power is delivered to the wheels effectively and efficiently.
Conclusion
The Chevy SS is a high-performance sedan that is powered by a robust and capable V8 engine. The LS3 engine, with its impressive power output, advanced features, and proven track record, is the heart of this impressive vehicle. Whether paired with a manual or automatic transmission, the Chevy SS delivers an exhilarating driving experience that is sure to captivate enthusiasts and performance-minded drivers alike.
Why are Chevy SS so rare?
Chevy SS sedans are rare because they were only produced for a short four-year run (2014–2017) with low production numbers, partly due to a lack of marketing and poor sales figures that were only about 3,000 per year. The car was imported from Australia as a Holden Commodore and its production was ultimately limited by the closure of the Holden plant, according to Quora.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Chevy SS's design and why it was considered a sleeper sedan: 31sAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Jul 2, 2025
- Limited production: The car was only produced for four model years, ending after 2017, which inherently limits the total number of vehicles available.
- Low sales and poor marketing: Despite being a high-performance sedan with a V8 engine, sales were lackluster, partly because Chevrolet did not heavily market the car.
- Imported from Australia: The Chevy SS was an imported Holden Commodore, and its production run was tied to the Australian Holden plant, which GM later shuttered.
- Short lifespan: The vehicle was essentially a stop-gap model to honor a prior deal to import sedans from Holden after the Pontiac G8 was canceled, and there was no plan for a long-term replacement.
Does the Chevy SS have a Corvette engine?
Corvette. That's right a Corvette engine in a family sedan 415 horsepower and 415 lb feet of torque. And a 0 to 60 time of 4.5. Seconds that's the same as the Porsche Cayman GTS. Let that sink in when
What is the Chevy SS based off of?
The Chevy SS was based on the Australian-made Holden Commodore. It was essentially a rebadged version of the Commodore for the North American market, sharing its platform and design.
- Holden Commodore: The Chevy SS was the U.S. version of the Holden Commodore, specifically the VF generation.
- Rear-wheel drive performance sedan: It was a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive sport sedan manufactured by General Motors' Australian branch, Holden.
- Spiritual successor: The SS is considered the spiritual successor to the Pontiac G8, which was an earlier Holden Commodore sold in the U.S.
What engine is in a Chevy SS?
The Chevy SS is powered by a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine that produces 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine, which was also used in the 2008-2013 Corvette, is a naturally aspirated, pushrod, overhead valve (OHV) V8. The engine was paired with either a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission.
This video provides an overview of the Chevy SS and its engine: 35sBixmationYouTube · Feb 3, 2025
- Engine: 6.2L V8 (LS3)
- Horsepower: 415 hp @ 5,900 rpm
- Torque: 415 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
