Today's Nice Price or No Dice Chevy SS appears in St. Bonifacius, Minnesota, a place named for the Benedictine monk said to have created the Christmas tree. Its strong performance setup means this SS might encounter many such trees on the drag strip. We will assess what the car is truly worth.

In family lineage, a scion refers to an heir from a prominent background. The word also describes a plant shoot or offshoot, often called a sucker. Toyota launched a new brand in the early 2000s aimed at younger buyers and chose the Scion name. Research had shown Toyota buyers were older than desired, so a fresh brand was intended to build lifelong loyalty.

Earlier this week we reviewed a compact 2012 Scion iQ with low miles and tiny proportions that could fit on a child's bracelet. Its $4,999 price seemed reasonable, and it earned a 63 percent Nice Price victory.

Time for a change

This week featured a Mini Cooper and Scion iQ, both efficient small cars that suggest responsibility. Enough of that. Today we examine a vehicle that is far less restrained and more of a performance-focused machine.

This 2016 Chevrolet SS sedan originated as a Holden Commodore from Australia, where the brand operated as a General Motors subsidiary. The rear-wheel-drive V8 model was sold in various markets, appearing as the Chevy SS in the United States and as a Vauxhall in the UK.

In the U.S. the platform first served as Pontiac models before becoming a Chevy performance sedan after that division ended. Marketed simply as the SS, the car was available from 2014 to 2017, with a minor update for 2016.

Strong specifications

At launch the SS was noted as the first rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan from Chevy since 1996. Power comes from a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 producing 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Buyers could choose a six-speed automatic or, in this case, a Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual.

Brembo brakes and 19-inch wheels were standard for the year to manage the power. The car arrived well equipped, with options limited to a full-size spare and moonroof. The seller confirms the spare is included, and photos show the moonroof. Both options indicate the original buyer chose every available feature.

Condition and equipment

The exterior is finished in Heron White, a color that avoids drawing attention. The interior is black leather on the seats, steering wheel, and shifter. Standard features include push-button start, power accessories, automatic climate control, and a navigation-equipped infotainment screen. The seller notes only minor cosmetic marks consistent with the 85,000 miles.

The car remains largely original. A Roto-Fab cold-air intake, oil catch can, and black trim accents are the only noted changes. Firestone tires are fitted, and a full set of service records is provided. Most examples of this model have received extensive modifications, so this largely stock example stands out.

Market considerations

Chevrolet sold roughly 12,000 SS sedans during production. With Holden closing in 2021, future examples of this type are unlikely. The combination of a manual transmission and V8 power in a sedan is uncommon, even though enthusiasts often request such specifications.

This particular SS could appeal to buyers seeking that experience. The seller asks $45,500 and states the price reflects condition, rarity, and documentation. Does the asking price align with the car's attributes, or is it too high?

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