23rd August, 2005
New for 2006
- Horsepower increased to 400 (298 kw) with six-speed transmission, 395
horsepower (294 kw) with four-speed automatic
- Available two-tone appearance exterior colour scheme with Smokin’ Asphalt
over Ricochet Silver Metallic, or Ricochet Silver Metallic over Smokin’ Asphalt
- Pacific Blue Metallic exterior colour
- Available chrome package (includes exterior and interior trim pieces)
- Available dealer-installed accessories, including bright hood blanket
(underside of bonnet) with SSR logo, cargo organiser, soft side-saddle storage
bags, upgraded towing package with soft side-saddle storage bags and pre-cut
foam insert for storing the trailer hitch and ball inside the bags
- New accessories sold through the accessory catalogue
Model Lineup
|
Engine |
Transmissions |
|
6.0L V-8 (LS2) |
4-spd auto
(Hydra-Matic 4L65-E) |
6-spd man (M10) |
|
SSR |
s |
s |
o |
|
Key: |
|
|
Standard |
s |
|
Optional |
o |
2006 CHEVROLET SSR:
CLASSIC STYLE WITH
MODERN PERFORMANCE
When it comes to America's Chevy SSR, the shy need not apply. This heritage-styled
roadster utility turns heads, garners thumbs-up and elicits smiles wherever
it goes. After significant changes in 2005, including the introduction of the
LS2 V-8 engine and available six-speed manual transmission, the SSR returns for
’06 with more power. A new intake manifold and revised calibrations help raise
horsepower to 400 (298 kw) at 6000 rpm for models equipped with the available
six-speed manual.
SSR models equipped with the standard four-speed automatic deliver 395
horsepower (294 kw) at 5700 rpm. Torque is rated at 400 lb.-ft. (542 Nm) at 4000
rpm for both manual- and automatic-transmission SSR models.
The '06 SSR also introduces new exterior colour offerings, a custom-look
two-tone paint scheme consisting of Smokin’ Asphalt and Ricochet Silver. The
paint scheme splits horizontally across the vehicle, starting at the bonnet cut
line and extending around the body feature line that wraps around the cargo
area. The transition between the two colours – the scheme is available with
Smokin’ Asphalt over Ricochet Silver Metallic or vice versa – is feathered so
smoothly that it appears as the same surface. Both colours have a clear coat
applied that gives the two-tone finish a custom “one-off” appearance.
Colour-keyed interior components in all SSR models with the two-tone paint
scheme will match the vehicle’s upper colour. The two-tone exterior paint
appearance reinforces the customised look of the vehicle, similar to the style
of contemporary street rods. Additionally, Pacific Blue Metallic has been added
to the SSR’s palette, bringing the number of available exterior colours to six.
While the SSR's glorious exterior shape may recall the 'full-fendered' forms of
the late ’40s and early ’50s, this innovative roadster is anything but retro
when it comes to incorporating leading-edge technology and creative design
solutions. One of its most distinguishing features is the clever
power-retractable hardtop, which provides an open-air driving experience without
sacrificing cargo space. Incorporating a “top stack” design, SSR’s retractable
hardtop is the first ever applied on a utility truck. It is the only system of its kind
where the roof panels move independently, stacking vertically behind the
passenger compartment – a design that ensures quick operation with minimal
stowage requirements.
A single button on the console transforms SSR from an enclosed hardtop to a
convertible in less than 30 seconds, neatly tucking the roof panels rearward
between the passenger compartment and cargo area. This unique vertical storage
design system enables SSR to maintain its 22.5 cubic feet of cargo room (637 L)
– even with the top down.
Also new for '06 are several dealer-installed SSR accessories that have been
designed and engineered by GM.
These include: satin chrome and bright chrome sill plate
covers; satin chrome pedal covers; vehicle care kit; reversible cargo area mat
and a customised vehicle cover. Returning accessories include an engine cover
insert, cargo area strips (available in all vehicle colours, as well as satin
chrome) and a cockpit windbreak. Auxiliary gauges and running boards are
available for vehicles not originally equipped with them from the factory.
Other accessories and accessory packages include: an auxiliary gauge package
(volts, delivered torque, exterior temperature), a body colour package, which
adds the exterior colour to SSR’s auxiliary gauge package, engine cover insert
and cargo area strips; a body colour package with running boards; and a
windbreak.
Modern flare
SSR’s flared front muguards and quarter panels are formed using a blend of
modern technology and some traditional methods used to produce the original
1947-1953 Advanced Design Chevy lineup of 'pickup' trucks, which formed the
inspiration for this unique modern-day muscle truck. The stamping process, for
example, uses a unique method called “inverted toggle draw,” which combines the
original toggle draw process and the more recent stretch draw concept. The use
of new Grade 5 deep-draw quality steel enables these shapes to be formed without
splitting.
Underneath its sleek exterior, SSR incorporates a body-on-frame construction,
which is an upper steel unibody mounted on a boxed frame. Fully hydroformed
steel side rails provide the frame with strength and stiffness, relatively low
weight and precision fits. Eight cross members – as opposed to only four or six
in similar frame designs – boost structural strength while contributing to a
smooth ride, more precise handling and reduced noise and vibration levels.
The upper unibody helps support SSR’s retractable roof system, while
minimising the loss of structural integrity typically associated with
convertibles by augmenting the stiffness of the entire vehicle with special
cross members.
SSR’s stiff frame and specifically tuned suspension provide a
boulevard-cruiser ride, yet are responsive enough to handle the added horsepower
of the LS2 V-8 while also delivering the durability levels expected in a truck.
The front suspension uses upper and lower control arms for superior
kinematics, damping and stability, and works with SSR’s rack-and-pinion steering
to provide precise control. SSR’s rear five-link live axle suspension, which
uses monotube shock absorbers with mountings outboard of the frame, also
provides improved body and wheel control. Steel coil springs and a micro
cellular urethane auxiliary spring enhance ride comfort and stability during
fully loaded conditions.
SSR models equipped with the automatic transmission have standard electronic
traction control, an 8.6-inch (21.8 cm) rear axle, a Torsen differential and
massive P295/40R20 rear tyres that ensure power is delivered to the ground with
exceptional traction and control. The Torsen differential, proven on performance
cars, works seamlessly with the traction assist to maximise performance during
strong acceleration or over varying road surfaces . The SSR with a manual
transmission forgoes the traction control feature and utilises a 9.5-inch (24.1
cm) rear axle with an Eaton heavy-duty limited-slip differential.
Four-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS and dynamic rear proportioning provide
SSR with outstanding stopping performance, and world-class levels of brake feel,
wear resistance and low noise. The use of non-asbestos organic compound lining
extends brake life to 40,000 miles, depending on vehicle use and payload.
Flexing potent new muscle to match its stunning looks, SSR is powered by the
newest version of Chevy’s legendary small-block V-8. Ratings are 400 horsepower
(298 kw) for six-speed-equipped vehicles and 395 horsepower (294 kw) for
automatic models. Torque is a strong 400 lb.-ft. (542 Nm) and is harnessed by
the standard Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed automatic transmission. A Tremec M10
six-speed manual gearbox is available.
Under the retractable hardtop, SSR's interior design is based on Chevrolet's
twin cockpit approach, with a horizontal cross-car bar and body-colour accents
that pull exterior design cues inside. The satin chrome aluminium look used on
elements of SSR’s exterior continues on the interior door trim and instrument
panel bezels. The cleanly styled instrument panel contains gauges with bold
graphics and a simple three-dial design for all climate controls.
The interior is packed with luxury as standard equipment, including
leather seating surfaces, six-way power-adjustable driver seat, two-way
power-adjustable passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio
controls, air conditioning, cruise control, driver information centre, and a
AM/FM stereo with CD player and MP3 capability. Also available are heated seats
with driver-side memory, a six-disc CD stereo, 250-watt Bose sound system,
self-dimming inside rearview mirror (with halo lighting and universal remote)
and a self-dimming outside driver’s mirror.
SSR options including chrome wheels, running board and auxiliary gauge
package (includes readouts for voltage, delivered engine torque and outside air
temperature). The running boards and gauge housings are available in satin
chrome or colour-keyed finishes. Another popular option is the cargo compartment
trim, which adds a customised feel to the cargo area with a carpeted layer over
the entire area, underside of the cargo area and tailgate. The trim package also
includes two simulated oak track covers and seven bed strips.
