The latest additions to the SS family, which just debuted at the New York event, include the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS. This
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| The latest additions to the SS family, which just debuted at the New York event, include the Malibu SS and Malibu Maxx SS. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
duo, however, might make a true fan of the famed double-consonant designation seriously question the scruples of Chevrolet's marketing team. The big change with the Malibu is the addition of the new 3.9-litre "3900" V6, which features variable valve timing for its OHV pushrods. This mysterious layout (why not use the DOHC motor from the Allure?) makes a less-than-impressive 240 horses and 241 lb-ft of torque, especially when compared to many competitors on market with more in their less flashy base V6 trim (even the bread and butter Camry is expected to offer its 280-horsepower 3.5-litre V6 as an option next year). The new SS is also linked to a four-speed automatic transmission, which is hardly state of the art.
Also included in the SS package is a special body kit with monochromatic sport fascias, black-out grille, fog lamps, a rear
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| Inside, ebony sport buckets are matched to a special three-spoke steering wheel, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
spoiler and dual exhaust. The SS includes special suspension tuning as well, which stiffens the stock car's floaty ride, while massive 18-inch chromed alloy wheels replace the stock undersized wheel and tire package. Inside, ebony sport buckets are matched to a special three-spoke steering wheel, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. Exciting stuff!
GM will also be offering the 3900 in the Pontiac G6 GTP, which will be available with a six-speed manual gearbox in addition to the automatic. It appears that the components that back up the SS name are no longer an 'SS' exclusive.
