[1]A few weeks ago GM pulled off the cover on its new-for-2014 Chevrolet Impala. With broader, more muscular looks and a refined interior, GM is hoping that their new entry into the full-size car segment will have the gusto to stand toe-to-toe with perennial heavy hitters like the Dodge Charger and Ford Taurus. But to do so, it is going to have to offer a serious performance version if it hopes to measure up in the eyes of consumers.
That’s why this report from Autoblog [2] implying that a SS version of the Impala is under way. But unlike prior Impala SS models, which featured a big V8 engine, this next Impala SS will likely feature a twin-turbo V6 pumping out as much as 380 horsepower.
Rumors of a twin-turbo V6 from GM have been around for over a year, though most of us expected it to first pop up in the Cadillac ATS, or maybe even the Chevy Camaro. But the 2014 Chevy Impala makes sense too. After all, it has a rich performance history, and after seeing the success of Ford’s EcoBoost-powered Taurus SHO, GM has to be thinking about nabbing a slice of that full-size performance sedan pie.
The 3.0 liter, twin-turbo V6 could make as much as 380 horsepower if Autoblogs spies are correct. That would put it 15 horsepower ahead of the Taurus SHO, and on par with the Dodge Charger R/T. Alas, the Impala will likely only be available in all-wheel drive with the twin-turbo V6, which is disappointing to those of us who like to burn rubber. But a 380 horsepower, twin-turbo Impala otherwise sounds like a fun, swanky ride. Would you rock it?