2014-2015 Chevrloet SS review

To the casual onlooker, there are few clues that this new Chevy sedan is anything more than another comfy, four-door cruiser. The aggressive front-end styling, dual stainless-­steel exhaust tips, and a muscular stance hint at the hidden potential of the Chevy SS. But it's not until you dip into the throttle, hear the throaty exhaust rumble, and feel the G-force press you back into your seat that you become aware that under the hood beats the potent heart of a Corvette.

Built by Holden, GM's Australian division, the rear-wheel-drive SS blends the spacious, comfortable cabin of a large sedan with a 415-hp, 6.2-liter V8 adapted from the last-generation Chevrolet Corvette. It also delivers acceleration and handling prowess that approaches such European super-sedans as the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG but at a price that's about $40,000 lower.

Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the V8 delivered 0-to-60-mph sprints in a super-swift 5.1 seconds, which is only a second slower than the new, redesigned Corvette Stingray. Clearly, you won't buy this car for its gas mileage; we measured only 17 mpg overall, which approaches the consumption of a large SUV such as the Chevy Tahoe.

The SS is taut, agile, and tied down, with pinpoint handling and tenacious cornering grip. Minimal body lean and quick, well-weighted steering make it fun to drive. On the track the SS was a pure joy, with balanced, predictable behavior and a nicely tuned stability-control system. The ride is firm, but the SS doesn't beat you up with an overly stiff suspension as do certain other high-performance cars. Exhaust and tire noise are noticeable but not overbearing.

Performance aside, the SS is an executive express par excellence. Access is easy to the sumptuous cockpit. The rear seat is very hospitable. Controls are simple to use. And the trunk holds enough luggage to sustain a lengthy family trek.

The SS comes just one way: fully loaded. All versions have leather power seats, navigation, automatic parking assist, a head-up display, and such performance gear as Brembo brakes and sporty summer tires (which you'll need to swap in snowy conditions). Standard electronic safety features include forward-collision, lane-departure, and blind-spot warning systems.

Our car carried a $47,170 sticker price, which might seem like a lot for a Chevy sedan. But the inviting blend of performance and livability make the SS a convincing sports ­sedan that boasts a Vette's soul but without that car's pushy personality.

Best version to get. Selecting a Chevy SS is simplicity itself. Pick from five colors and choose from two options: a $900 sunroof and a $500 full-sized spare tire with matching aluminum wheel.