2014 Chevy SS: High-performance Highlights
The starting point of the 2014 Chevy SS is the same proven rear-wheel-drive platform leveraged by the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro, and like the Camaro—and the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette—motivation comes from a hand-built LS3 V8 engine that’s actually bigger than the ones used in the SS racecars. As a result, the retail cars will offer up 415 hp and a like amount of lb.-ft. of torque, with that power sent exclusively through a six-speed paddle-shifting automatic transmission to enable 0-60 sprints in right around 5 seconds.
Other notable performance enhancers for the 2014 Chevy SS include its standard Brembo brakes, with two-piece, four-piston front calipers, and ultra-high-performance rubber from Bridgestone. Up front, the car wears 245/40ZR19 tires wrapped around 19 x 8.5-inch aluminum-forged wheels, while the back is configured with 275/35ZR19 tires and 19 x 9-inch wheels.
Thus, despite the NASCAR pedigree of the 2014 Chevy SS, owners will enjoy incredible driving dynamics regardless of which way they turn the wheel. As explained by David Leone, executive chief engineer for GM’s global programs: “Our goal was to create a car that delivers incredible grip and handling balance while cornering, while still being comfortable to drive on the road. The perfect weight balance and lower center of gravity were a big part of that goal because it enabled the team to tune for a more comfortable highway ride without sacrificing handling or driver confidence while cornering at the limits.”