The Chevrolet SS We Should Have Gotten
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.
More by Derek Kreindler
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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.
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.