The Chevrolet SS (Super Sport) facelift of 2016 represented the final iteration of Chevrolet’s rear-wheel-drive performance sedan, sold in the United States and Canada. Positioned as a direct descendant of the Pontiac G8 GXP, and sharing its Zeta platform, the SS aimed to deliver a uniquely American take on the European-style sports sedan. Production spanned the 2016 and 2017 model years, with the facelift bringing subtle styling updates and continuing the tradition of a powerful V8 engine. It served as Chevrolet’s flagship performance sedan, offering a compelling alternative to European rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, but with a distinctly American flavor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | SS |
| Generation | SS (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 V8 (415 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 231.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 313.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 415 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 563 Nm @ 4600 rpm (415.25 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LS3 |
| Engine displacement | 6162 cm3 (376.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1796 kg (3959.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 464 l (16.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Length | 4966 mm (195.51 in.) |
| Width | 1897 mm (74.69 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2916 mm (114.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc, 355×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 360×28 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/40 R19 Rear wheel tires: 275/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2016 Chevrolet SS is the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant, a member of GM’s Small Block family, produces 415 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 450 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm. The LS3 utilizes aluminum cylinder heads, a cast iron block, and a forged steel crankshaft. Direct fuel injection contributes to both power output and efficiency. The engine’s valvetrain employs overhead valves (OHV) with two valves per cylinder. The sole transmission option for the 2016 SS was a six-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with full control over the substantial power. This was a deliberate choice by Chevrolet, emphasizing the car’s performance credentials. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 2016 Chevrolet SS delivers a classic rear-wheel-drive experience. The 6.2L V8 provides strong acceleration throughout the rev range, with peak torque available relatively low in the RPM band. The six-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, enhancing driver engagement. While not as technologically advanced as some European competitors with dual-clutch transmissions, the manual gearbox offers a more visceral and rewarding driving experience. The SS feels substantial and planted on the road, thanks to its relatively heavy weight and well-tuned suspension. Compared to potential alternatives like a Chevrolet Camaro SS, the SS offers a more refined and comfortable ride, making it a more practical daily driver. The manual transmission, while engaging, requires a degree of skill to extract the most performance from the engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2016 Chevrolet SS came relatively well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, and a premium Bose audio system. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and a comprehensive suite of airbags. Optional extras included a power sunroof, navigation, and head-up display. The interior design was functional and understated, prioritizing comfort and usability over flashy aesthetics. The SS aimed for a balance between luxury and performance, offering a comfortable and well-appointed cabin without sacrificing the driver-focused experience.
Chassis & Braking
The Chevrolet SS rides on GM’s Zeta platform, a rear-wheel-drive architecture known for its rigidity and handling capabilities. The suspension consists of an independent multi-link setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining good control. Brembo brakes, with large ventilated discs at all four corners (355mm front, 360mm rear), provide ample stopping power. The SS features electric power steering, offering a responsive and precise feel. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and stability during hard braking. The chassis was designed to handle the substantial power of the LS3 V8, providing a stable and predictable platform for spirited driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2016 Chevrolet SS was generally well-received by automotive critics. Praise was directed towards its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted its relatively high fuel consumption and lack of advanced technology features compared to some European rivals. Compared to the Camaro SS, the SS offered a more refined and comfortable ride, but at the expense of some outright performance. Against European competitors like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the SS offered a compelling value proposition, providing similar levels of performance and luxury at a lower price point. Fuel economy was a consistent criticism, with combined figures around 17 mpg.
Legacy
The Chevrolet SS, particularly the 2016 facelift, has gained a following among enthusiasts as a modern classic. The LS3 V8 engine is known for its reliability and tunability, making it a popular choice for modifications. The manual transmission further enhances its appeal to driving purists. On the used car market, well-maintained examples of the 2016 SS command a premium, reflecting its limited production run and desirable specifications. The SS represents a unique chapter in Chevrolet’s history, offering a rear-wheel-drive performance sedan that harkened back to the brand’s muscle car heritage while providing a comfortable and refined driving experience.
