The Chevrolet SS We Should Have Gotten

by Derek Kreindler

Published: May 29th, 2013

While we get the Chevrolet SS with a naturally aspirated small-block V8 and a two-pedal transmission, customers in the UK get a much more aggressive package.

A Vauxhall in name only, the VXR8 GTS gets the supercharged 6.2L V8 from the Camaro ZL1 putting down 576 horsepower, and has the option of a 6-speed manual gearbox as well as an automatic. Magnetic ride shocks, torque vectoring and a manettino-style dial that can adjust a whole range of parameters (like ESC calibration, launch control, exhaust volume and steering feel) are also included. But it all comes at a price. At around 55,000 pounds, the VXR8 is about 25 percent cheaper than an equivalent BMW M5. Our Chevrolet SS will probably come in at around half the price of a US spec M5. I also tend to prefer the more subtle exterior of our SS – but that was the chief complaint against the Pontiac GTO, so what do I know?

Visit our Chevy SS Forum for discussions on the Chevy SS.

#America #Australia #Chevrolet #ChevroletSs #Vauxhall #VauxhallVxr8Gts

Derek Kreindler

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2 of 37 comments

Beerboy12 on May 29, 2013

They would sell the 3 peddle if Americans were more interested in using both legs while driving, but they are not so why should they bother? Of course that does deny the few who are and that is a sad thing.

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Cubista on May 29, 2013

Richard Hammond reviewed the supercharged Vauxhall a few seasons ago in a piece that also included a "Ute" called a Maloo, or some such thing...imagine if Chevrolet never stopped making the El Camino stateside...and it was one of most entertaining reviews ever. The exhaust note and supercharger whine screaming at the same time was just ridiculous...I fell in love at once, both the the car and Australia as a whole. As much coin as the new Chevy SS will command, a second-hand 05-06 GTO probably makes more sense. You can get a manual on one of those, too.

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Wjtinfwb My comment about "missing the mark" was directed at, of the mentioned cars, none created huge demand or excitement once they were introduced. All three had some cool aspects; Thunderbird was pretty good exterior, let down by the Lincoln LS dash and the fairly weak 3.9L V8 at launch. The Prowler was super cool and unique, only the little nerf bumpers spoiled the exterior and of course the V6 was a huge letdown. SSR had the beans, but in my opinion was spoiled by the tonneau cover over the bed. Remove the cover, finish the bed with some teak or walnut and I think it could have been more appealing. All three were targeting a very small market (expensive 2-seaters without a prestige badge) which probably contributed. The PT Cruiser succeeded in this space by being both more practical and cheap. Of the three, I'd still like to have a Thunderbird in my garage in a classic color like the silver/green metallic offered in the later years.
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