What is Chevy SS based on?
The Chevy SS was a high-performance sedan produced by Chevrolet from 2013 to 2017. It was based on the Holden Commodore, a popular rear-wheel-drive sedan sold in Australia and other markets. The Chevy SS offered American buyers a powerful and practical alternative to traditional muscle cars, combining sports car-like performance with the comfort and utility of a four-door sedan.
Origins of the Chevy SS
The Chevy SS was developed as a collaboration between Chevrolet and Holden, General Motors' Australian subsidiary. Holden had a long history of producing high-performance rear-wheel-drive sedans, and the Commodore was one of their most successful models.
When Chevrolet decided to bring a new high-performance sedan to the U.S. market, they turned to the Holden Commodore as the basis for the Chevy SS. This allowed Chevrolet to leverage Holden's engineering expertise and take advantage of the Commodore's proven platform.
Key Features of the Chevy SS
The Chevy SS was powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, allowing drivers to choose their preferred driving experience.
In addition to its powerful engine, the Chevy SS featured a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and a limited-slip differential for enhanced handling and performance. The exterior design was also inspired by the Holden Commodore, with a muscular, aggressive appearance that set it apart from more sedate family sedans.
Comparison to Other High-Performance Sedans
The Chevy SS competed with other high-performance sedans such as the Dodge Charger SRT8 and the Ford Taurus SHO. However, the Chevy SS stood out for its rear-wheel-drive layout and more focused, driver-oriented character.
While the Charger and Taurus offered more interior space and a wider range of features, the Chevy SS prioritized performance and driving dynamics, appealing to enthusiasts who valued a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy and Discontinuation
The Chevy SS was well-received by critics and enthusiasts, but it never achieved the sales success that Chevrolet had hoped for. Production of the Chevy SS ended in 2017, as Chevrolet shifted its focus to more popular and profitable models in the SUV and crossover segments.
Despite its relatively short lifespan, the Chevy SS left a lasting impression on the automotive landscape, offering a unique blend of performance, practicality, and style that appealed to a niche but passionate group of buyers. Its legacy as a modern-day muscle car with a twist continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Is the Chevy SS an impala?
No, a Chevy SS is a separate model, but an Impala SS is a high-performance version of the Chevrolet Impala. The "SS" stands for "Super Sport," and the Impala SS was a specific trim level available during certain production years, from 1961–1969, 1994–1996, and 2006–2009.
You can watch this video to see a 1996 Impala SS in action: 58sMaple Motors Muscle Cars Nick SouthgateYouTube · Nov 18, 2025
- Impala SS: A performance-oriented trim of the Chevrolet Impala that has been produced at different times.
- Chevy SS: A distinct model that was produced from 2013 to 2017. It was a rear-wheel-drive, V8-powered sedan that was marketed internationally as the Holden Commodore SS.
What is the Chevy SS based on?
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 makes a Chevy an 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 platform is the Chevy SS built on?
The Chevy SS is built on the GM Zeta platform, a rear-wheel-drive architecture that was also used for the Holden Commodore and the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro. The platform was stiffened and improved with new, high-strength steel for the SS to create a more controlled drive.
- Platform: GM Zeta platform
- Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
- Shared with: Holden Commodore, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Caprice PPV
- Improvements: The chassis was stiffened for improved performance, using a significant amount of new medium and high-strength steel.
