In the world of performance sedans, there are cars that shout for attention — and then there are those that quietly deliver thrills without the flash. All of this made it a standout in a market dominated by either front-wheel-drive sedans or high-priced European performance cars.
Yet despite its impressive specs and refined driving experience, the SS flew under the radar for most buyers.
A Brief History of the Chevrolet SS
To understand the 2017 Chevrolet SS, you have to trace its roots back to Australia — specifically, to Holden, General Motors’ long-standing Australian subsidiary. was uncertain. The car was offered from 2014 through 2017, with minor updates each year, including the eventual addition of a manual transmission — a rare and welcome move.
Performance and Engineering
Producing 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, this naturally aspirated powerhouse delivers linear, immediate power with a deep, throaty growl that reminds you this isn't just a commuter car.
Beyond raw horsepower, the SS was engineered to be more than just a straight-line missile. It featured Magnetic Ride Control, GM’s advanced adaptive suspension system that continuously adjusted damping in real-time to balance comfort and performance.
It was a perfect blend of American muscle and Australian engineering, wrapped in a practical four-door body that made it ideal for those who wanted performance without compromising everyday usability.
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Design and Interior Features
But for those in the know, this subtlety was part of its charm. The front fascia featured a simple blacked-out grille, HID headlamps with LED accents, and a lower air intake that hinted at performance without going overboard. From the side, the SS rode on 19-inch aluminum wheels with a clean, five-spoke design and sat low and wide, giving it a planted stance.
Inside, the story changed dramatically. Technology was also a strong point. A premium Bose 9-speaker audio system delivered crisp sound, and a head-up display (HUD) projected vital driving information onto the windshield, helping drivers stay focused on the road.
The SS also included a suite of safety and convenience features:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Blind Zone Monitoring
- Rearview Camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Keyless entry with push-button start
Build quality inside the SS was solid, thanks in large part to its Australian origins. It was clear that this wasn't just a muscle car — it was designed to be driven every day in comfort and style.
The End of the Line
The SS was based on the Holden VF Commodore, which itself was the final iteration of a platform that had been refined over decades. However, by the mid-2010s, manufacturing vehicles in Australia had become increasingly difficult due to rising production costs and a shrinking domestic market. GM announced the end of Holden’s local production in 2013, with the last car rolling off the line in October 2017.
Why the 2017 Chevrolet SS Still Matters
The Last of Its Kind
In this light, the SS serves as a time capsule of classic performance, offering an unfiltered connection between driver and machine that’s becoming harder to find.
Manual Transmission Rarity
The SS bucked that trend by offering a 6-speed manual option — not just as an afterthought, but as a fully integrated, enthusiast-focused choice. That alone has helped boost its desirability among collectors and purists, as manual cars become increasingly rare across all vehicle types.
Understated Cool Factor
Its sleeper status adds to its appeal; it’s a car that doesn’t need to shout to be respected. It’s the kind of vehicle that flies under the radar until it leaves everything behind at a stoplight. That combination of stealth and performance gives it a unique personality that’s hard to replicate.
Rising Collector Interest
Prices are holding strong — even climbing for low-mileage or manual examples — as enthusiasts begin to recognize its rarity and performance pedigree. Its connection to Holden and the end of Australian production adds historical value, further cementing its place as a future classic.
An Enthusiast's Car in Disguise
It didn’t follow trends. It didn’t chase luxury status. For those who crave that connection with the road and the roar of a naturally aspirated V8, the SS is more than just a car — it's a reminder of what driving used to be.
