Overview & Reviews

An anomaly in the automotive world, the Chevrolet SSR (Super Sport Roadster) convertible combined the look of a customized 1950s pickup with the rear-wheel-drive powertrain of a sports car. Based on General Motors' midsize SUV platform, the SSR had a high seating position and a trucklike ride. Yet this muscular Chevy truck was no workhorse. It had just two seats, a narrow pickup bed with a tonneau cover and a meager towing capacity. Other packaging and ergonomic compromises made it less than ideal as primary transportation.

What the Chevrolet SSR did offer was a healthy dose of individuality. It looked like nothing else on the road and was a pure automotive style statement. Between the '40s-style fat fenders, the low hood and its dominant rear proportions (greatly enhanced by the hard bed cover), this Chevy looks as speed-crazed as any muscle car from the '60s or '70s. Its two-piece power-retractable hardtop stowed vertically between the seats and the rear storage bed, thus allowing open-air motoring. For a car enthusiast looking to fill some extra space in his garage with something that combines postwar cruiser image with modern-day hardware and reliability, the SSR could be a fun choice.

However, the SSR was plagued by issues throughout its four-year lifespan, including build quality problems, so-so performance of earlier models due to the smaller V8's struggle with the excessive curb weight, and a breathtaking sticker price. Subsequently, it was discontinued after 2006. Chevy sold only about 25,000 SSRs, which makes used examples a rare find.

Used Chevrolet SSR Models
The Chevrolet SSR is a two-passenger convertible truck that was produced in a single generation from late 2003 through 2006. Buyers interested in a used SSR should make note of a few changes that occurred during its production. For its first two years, the SSR came with a 5.3-liter, 300-horsepower V8 that struggled to get the 4,700-pound SSR moving with any authority. The 6.0-liter unit installed in 2005 made 390 hp and was a better match to move the heavy Chevy. Interior assembly quality improved somewhat during the 2005 model year, which also was the first year the six-speed manual transmission became available.

There was only one trim level. Standard features included a power-operated convertible hardtop, leather upholstery, power accessories, keyless entry and cruise control. An upgraded audio system, heated seats and auto-dimming mirrors were optional. Further customization could be had thanks to some strictly cosmetic options such as color-keyed bed strips, chrome interior and exterior trim, chrome wheels and two-tone paint.

In terms of safety, the Chevrolet SSR was modestly equipped. Front and side torso airbags were standard, but curtain airbags were not available due to the folding roof. Traction control and antilock brakes were standard, but stability control was unavailable. Every SSR came with 19-inch wheels up front and 20-inch wheels in back.

In reviews, our editors commented that the Chevy SSR possessed an agreeable combination of handling, ride and performance. The suspension was reasonably capable of keeping body roll under control and the exhaust note would do an old Chevelle SS proud. On the downside, the vehicle wasn't particularly useful for daily use, and some of the interior materials were a bit cheap-looking.

User Reviews:

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  Show Stopper - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By mtunstl - April 12 - 6:31 pm

  This is a well designed and well built muscle car for the new century. A sleeper at the stop light and a lightning bolt on the straightaway. Its not a "cop catcher" but it is an "eye catcher". Men and women of all ages love this car because it is fun and different from what you see all over the roads today. It has a little retro styling with all the best technology of today. Form and function in one cute little pick-up.

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  What a cool roadster - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By Rusty Fishel - March 20 - 9:33 am

  Truly a unique vehicle. It will truly set you apart from the crowd. Although its usefulness is limited if you are looking for a truck, it really doesnt fall into that category. The lines and the throaty music of its V8 will surely inspire you. If you are looking for a classic mode of transportation, this car will surely be noted in classic car history.

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  Lots of Fun - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By Dave - March 18 - 7:46 pm

  The SSR is fun to drive and gets lots of attention. It fits our need for going to the beach as well as hauling golf clubs.

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  Very Sweet - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By Imharley1 - February 16 - 10:41 am

  This truck is just as cool as my 48 pickup. Im glad I waited for the bigger motor. It is very comfortable to drive, great gas mileage, fun on short trips, and looks like it would be easy to modify.

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  Attention Getter! - 2004 Chevrolet SSR
  By berne1 - January 23 - 5:37 pm

  I got my 2004 SSR in December. The prices have come down since the launch. This car is definitely an attention-getter! The first day I got it I was stopped at the dry cleaner by a passerby to give me a compliment. I cant wait for summer to put the top down. This car looks sleek and low but actually sits up quite high, which is the best of both worlds. I love the interior design with the gauge package and upgraded stereo.

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  From C5 to SSR - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By H D Lee - January 23 - 2:40 pm

  Due to a recent stroke, I sold my 04 C5 Corvette convertible and bought a 05 SSR. Still wanted the driving FUN & convertible. The SSR is a little easier to get in & out of. I love the exhaust note of the SSR, one of the best features. The top is a breeze to operate. Has great sound system. The 05 has the LS2 motor with 390 hp. (detuned Vette motor) You have to like answering questions about the SSR everywhere you stop. Points to improve..seat adjustment is impossible with doors shut. Wish the power seats would move back automatically when door is opened. I have the chrome wheels and noticed the center caps tend to move out of position after driving around.

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  WHAT A GREAT RIDE - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By Bob - January 23 - 8:12 am

  This is a real looker. It turns heads and you gets all kinds of questions at stoplights. Fun to drive, solid ride but smooth. wish it had a stick shift, sounds great. When the top is down it is the best looking car on the road.

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  Chargers SSR - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By Slingshot Yellow - December 30 - 12:55 pm

  This is my second SSR. I love almost everything about the vehicle. Seat controls are tight between door. The retractable top is very convient and fast. Im a car nut, own six now, by far the SSR gets more attention than any vehicle Ive ever owned. Its unreal how many people (all ages)stop to look and ask questions. All comments positive, Ive never received a single negative comment. I cant wait to get my hands on the 454/425 Blackbird SSR. Where and how can I acquire one ? The 390 just isnt enough muscle for me. Im considering one of the new 500 hp ...... Corvettes. Chevy keep up the good work

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  Great Ride - 2005 Chevrolet SSR
  By jwxlv - November 16 - 9:07 am

  I always wanted a hot rod but I also wanted all the modern automobile technology. This is the first production vehicle that I enjoy driving as much as I do riding my Harley.

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  MY LAST TRUCK - 2003 Chevrolet SSR
  By ALLLEN BROWN - November 7 - 8:47 pm

  IVE DRIVEN A TRUCK FOR 40 YEARS AND THIS IS THE MOST EXCITING AND SHARPEST AND ATTENTION GETTING TRUCK EVER. IVE HAD PEOPLE TAKE PICTURES, FOLLOW ME HOME AND ASK ME TO SHOW THEM HOW EVERY THING WORKS. I LOVE IT.