And I want this. It's basically a G8 GXP, with some new refinements. And for not much more than what lower mile G8 GXPs are actually selling for...
The biggest "downside" is that the styling doesn't reflect the performance. And you know what? I like that. I never liked the Charger's styling, preferring the 300C since 2005. Flying under the radar is better.
LS3 and 6L80 only. That's ok. This would make a fantastic replacement for my Caprice, but they're looking at 4,000/yr for volume. It may hold onto its resale value.
Zeta is still a great platform. It's light, huge inside, dynamic. All enviable traits. Loaded up (only one way) for $45k.
It's coincidence that the SS's length and wheelbase match the new Cadillac CTS. The CTS starts with GM's Alpha platform, shared with the compact Cadillac ATS and built in Lansing, Mich. The SS starts with Zeta, which in its previous iteration provided the foundation for the Camaro and Pontiac G8, and it's built in Australia. Evolution from the last Zeta includes more high-strength steels, a 66-pound weight reduction, new suspension layout and new electrical system.
The SS is big, with the same interior volume and 35 percent more trunk space than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, according to the EPA, on a substantially shorter wheelbase. No one at Chevy is comparing the two, though the SS looks like good value at half the price of an S550. It's as quick off the line and faster (161 mph top speed) -- and we'd guess quicker 'round a racetrack, with more grip.
Straight up marketplace competition is limited. It probably doesn't included the V6-powered Ford Taurus SHO, which is smaller inside and heavier than the SS. The SS's only direct competitor might be the Dodge Charger SRT8.
The Charger's larger, iron-block Hemi has the power advantage, with 55 hp and 55 lb-ft more than the SS LS3. The Dodge, on the other hand, weighs nearly 400 pounds more; with that, the power-to-weight ratio evens out dramatically. Brake specs are essentially identical. The Charger offers adaptive suspension. The SS has an extra gear in its automatic, a bit more tire, more standard equipment and $2,000 price edge.
How's It Drive?
What's there to say about the LS3 V8 that hasn't been said? It's compact and less expensive to build than overhead cam engines. It's not afraid to rev, and it's much better than acceptably smooth.
Most significantly, it delivers giant wads of torque right where you want them. In the SS, the transition from part throttle to full-on is sweetly smooth, without no angry reaction from the rear end. This car tolerates bravado or silliness without vengeance. The transmission works for every purpose, be it lazy, comfortable self-shifting, precise, speedy manual operation or something in between. The traction/throttle and anti-skid electronics present a genuine scale in the car's reactions, from protective to well, you're on your own, kid. We'd guess that's a credit to the quality of the development drivers and engineers GM employs these days.
There probably isn't an enthusiast driver who would describe the SS's road-going demeanor as uncomfortable. The performance tires exact a toll in terms of rumble and chatter, to be sure, but they fit the SS's intent. The chassis is structurally solid, and it isn't sanitized for anyone's comfort or protection. This full-size Chevy is surprisingly light on its feet, and almost never feels big. It's civilized but not desensitized in any notable fashion.
That may be the biggest thing of all, or the biggest surprise to anyone who remembers the rear-drive Impala SS 18 years ago -- the balance. Balance here means less specifically weight balance and more the equal, consistent competence of the drivetrain, chassis, and overall dynamics. The sensitivity of the SS' steering or its reaction to throttle and brake inputs or the consistency of its opposite-corner tire patches don't fall off dramatically when it reaches the limits of grip. Call it organic or holistic or integrated. Whichever label you prefer, it was reserved for BMWs and a handful of other sedans when the 1996 Impala SS roamed the earth. Now it comes with a big ol' trunk and a bowtie.
