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2005 Chevrolet SSR

CHEVROLET SSR: SIX LITERS OF V-8 CORVETTE POWER FOR THE ULTIMATE BOULEVARD CRUISER PICKUP

Ever since its debut for 2003, the Chevrolet SSR with its retractable hardtop has been turning heads as the ultimate boulevard cruiser pickup truck. For 2005, SSR gets to snap some necks with a potent new 6.0L LS2 V-8 engine and available six-speed manual transmission straight out of the legendary Corvette.

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 390 horsepower (291 kw) at 5400 rpm, while torque is 405 lb.-ft (549 Nm) at 4400 rpm.

This massive power dose is harnessed through Corvette's Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed automatic transmission or an optional Tremec M10 six-speed manual gearbox.

Engineering advances in catalyst materials made possible catalytic converters that are more effective and less restrictive for the LS2's exhaust. The new converters are mounted closer to the exhaust manifold for quicker 'lightoff' and reduced cold-start emissions. SSR's exhaust has been retuned to maintain its throaty sound.

In addition to its new powertrain, SSR has numerous other enhancements for 2005, all designed to make this outrageous retractable-top roadster the thrill ride of the year. Upgrades include:

• A retuned steering system for a more precise on-center feel and reduced low-speed effort

• A revised quasi-dual exhaust routing system with two pipes from the muffler with baffled tip inserts

• A new 'dead pedal' design

• Self-supporting gas hood struts

• An MP3-capable base stereo system (1SA only)

• An embossed logo in place of the traction control button on manual transmission models

• New engine cover

• Aqua Blur replaces Ultra Violet in SSR's exterior body palette.

Also new for 2005 are several new GM accessory packages that include: auxiliary gauge package (volts, delivered torque, exterior temperature); a body color package, which adds the exterior color to SSR's auxiliary gauge package, engine cover insert and cargo area strips; a body color package with running boards; and a windbreak.

Striking looks, stunning innovation

While SSR's dramatic 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 SSR's most distinguishing features is its cleverly engineered 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 pickup. 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 bed. This unique vertical storage design system enables SSR to maintain the utility and convenience of a pickup – even with the top down.

Distinctive interior

SSR's interior design is based on Chevrolet's twin cockpit approach, with a horizontal cross-car bar and body-colored accents that pull exterior design cues inside. The satin chrome aluminum 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.

Modern technology meets traditional methods

SSR's flared front fenders 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 minimizing the loss of structural integrity typically associated with convertibles by augmenting the stiffness of the entire vehicle with special cross members.

A well-mannered ride, new steering system

For 2005, SSR's steering system is significantly revised, including a retuned valve and t-bar assembly, and a new bearing and friction seal package. These upgrades provide a more precise on-center feel, smoother overall operation and reduced effort at lower speeds.

SSR's stiff frame and specifically tuned suspension provide a boulevard-cruiser ride, yet is 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.

The SSR equipped with an automatic transmission has standard electronic traction control, an 8.6-inch (21.8-cm) rear axle, a Torsen differential and massive P295/40R20 rear tires ensure that SSR delivers its power to the ground with exceptional traction and control. The Torsen differential, proven on performance cars, works seamlessly with the traction assist to maximize performance during strong acceleration or over varying road surfaces. The SSR with a manual transmission foregoes the traction control feature and utilizes a 9.5-inch (24.1-cm) rear axle with an Eaton 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.

by GM Corporation

by Chevrolet

Chevy SSR Returns To Pace The Field In NASCAR

SSR To Pace 20 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Events Starting With The Auto Club 500 This Weekend

A Chevrolet SSR will perform pace duties for the Auto Club 500 at California Speedway on Sunday, Feb. 27, and continue those duties for a total of 20 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup races this season. This weekend will be the first time the Chevy SSR, a unique blend of an open-air roadster with pick-up truck functionality, will pace the field during the 2005 race season.

'The Chevrolet SSR pace vehicle makes a bold statement on the track-just like our Chevy NASCAR drivers,' said Brent Dewar, Chevrolet general manager. 'Pacing the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series provides a good opportunity to showcase the unique style and performance of the SSR, which now offers 390 horsepower.'

The 2005 Chevy SSR pace vehicle has a four-color paint scheme with a 'Sling Shot Yellow' nose blending into hot orange and 'Torch Red' racing flames throughout the body and ultimately transitioning to a 'Kinetic Blue' truck bed. The event logo for each race will be featured on both door panels with a red Chevy bowtie displayed on the hood.

The Chevy SSR pacing the field is nearly identical to the vehicles available in dealer showrooms. The production version of the 2005 Chevy SSR offers a new 6.0-liter LS2 small-block V-8 engine with 390 horsepower and the option of a six-speed manual transmission, which delivers a 0-60 mph time of 5.29 seconds. The SSR includes the standard one-button, power-operated retractable hardtop that stows vertically and out of sight in its own compartment without reducing cargo carrying capacity. The 2005 SSR starts at $42,555.

As the Official Pace Vehicle of NASCAR, Chevrolet will perform pace duties for 60 NASCAR events in 2005, including 28 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup, 17 Busch Series and 15 Craftsman Truck Series races, featuring vehicles such as Corvette, Monte Carlo and Silverado.

by GM

by Chevrolet

Chevrolet SSRs Seen and Heard In and Around Daytona Beach

Courtesy SSRs for Chevy's elite drivers, team owners and crew chiefs available for purchase following Daytona 500®

Hundreds of thousands of racing fans in Daytona Beach attending the annual Speedweeks will notice a host of Chevy's all-stars driving around town in a collection of 2005 Chevy SSRs. Chevrolet has provided 50 SSRs to its racing drivers, team owners and crew chiefs for their extended use leading up to the legendary Daytona 500. Following the race weekend, each of the vehicles will be available for purchase at Chevy dealerships throughout the Southeast.

All of Chevy's full-time NASCAR NEXTEL Cup drivers, their crew chiefs and team owners received a Chevy SSR for use while in Daytona Beach from Feb. 8 through Feb. 20. The vehicles have been a major hit among the recipients.

'This is the first time I've driven the Chevy SSR' said Kevin Harvick, driver of the No. 29 GM Goodwrench Chevrolet. 'The SSR has great performance with a lot of power. I've had a lot of fun driving this car.'

The 2005 Chevy SSRs used by the Chevy race teams will be available beginning Feb. 28, 2005. Each vehicle includes an autographed window label and a certificate of authenticity signed by the Chevy driver, team owner or crew chief that drove the specific SSR.

'The Chevy SSRs that were driven by our elite Chevy teams provide a unique opportunity for race fans in the market for a new vehicle,' said Janet Echkoff, marketing director for Chevy trucks. 'Our goal is to have an individual be able to purchase the very same SSR driven by one of our prior Daytona 500 winners or an SSR used by their favorite Chevy driver, owner or crew chief.'

The 2005 Chevy SSR is a unique blend of an open-air and pickup functionality. Powered by a new 6.0 Liter LS2 small block V8 engine with 390 horsepower with the option of a six-speed manual transmission, each SSR includes the standard one-button, power-operated retractable hardtop that stows vertically and out of sight in its own compartment without compromising cargo carrying capacity. The SSRs featured in Daytona Beach are painted Smokin' Asphalt, Ricochet Silver, Red Line Red, Sling Shot Yellow, and Aqua Blue.

To get more information on how you can purchase one of these vehicles, contact a Chevy dealer listed below:

Alan Jay Chevrolet (Seabring, FL)

Bill Heard Chevrolet (Columbus, GA)

Bill Seidle Chevrolet (Clermont, FL)

Bill Shultz Chevrolet (Fort Pierce, FL)

Blake Chevrolet (Homestead, FL)

Classic Chevrolet (Altamonte Springs, FL)

Coggin Chevrolet (Kissimme, FL)

Cox Chevrolet (Bradenton, FL)

Ed Morse Automall (Sunrise, FL)

Ed Morse Chevrolet (Lake Park, FL)

Gilbert Chevrolet (Okeechobee, FL)

Grand Prize Chevrolet (Miami, FL)

Holler Chevrolet (Winter Park, FL)

John Jochem Chevrolet (Stuart, FL)

Kendall Chevrolet (Miami, FL)

Kevin Whitaker Chevrolet (Greenville, FL)

Lou Bachrodt (Coconut Creek, FL) |

Maroone Chevrolet (Delray Beach, FL)

Maroone Chevrolet (Greenacres, FL)

Rodger Dean Chevrolet (Cape Coral, FL)

Roger Dean Chevrolet (West Palm Beach, FL)

Service Chevrolet (Vero Beach, FL)

'We're really excited about featuring some of the SSRs driven by Chevy's racing talent in our showroom,' said Bobby Soldano, general manager of Roger Dean Chevrolet. 'It's great exposure for this unique vehicle and a simple way to increase traffic to our showroom.'

by GM

by Chevrolet