Chevy SS successor and RHD Camaro plans axed?
Mon, 17 Nov 2014If you need the extra convenience of four doors but don't want to give up the thrill of high performance, the Chevrolet SS represents a potent package. The exterior is understated and the design certainly doesn't scream about the 415-horsepower, 6.2-liter V8 hiding beneath the hood. Unfortunately, there are some questions about how long this muscle sedan will last.
According to Motoring in Australia, when Holden ends local production at the close of 2017, the SS and the VF-model Commodore that it's based on are not getting replacements. The site claims that an unnamed, "senior GM executive" confirmed the news at the recent SEMA show. The source also had one interesting tidbit about the future of the SS suggesting that General Motors is considering fitting the trick suspension and carbon brakes from the Camaro Z/28 in the future. Previously, it looked very likely that the Commodore would retire when assembly ended, but earlier rumors suggested that the muscle sedan could be built in North America for its next generation.
When reached for comment by Autoblog, Chevy spokesperson Michael Albano said the automaker isn't able to discuss the SS beyond the 2015 model year.
Performance fans Down Under have even more reason to fret, too, because the same source claims that a right-hand drive variant of the future Chevy Camaro is also "highly unlikely." Production of the coupe is moving from Canada to GM's Lansing, MI, plant for the next generation, and the model is reportedly based on the Alpha platform – also used by the ATS.
If true, the rumor suggests the end of an era for Holden in Australia. It could mean there will be no rear-wheel drive GM V8s in that market after local production shuts down. The Commodore is rumored to be replaced in the lineup by a version of the imported Opel Insignia, a front-wheel-drive-based sedan.
By Chris Bruce