2006 Chevrolet SSR in Lithia Springs, Georgia

Vehicle Description

If you're a fan of Chevy's SSR roadster pickup, you already know that the one to own is the end-of-the-line model with the 6.0-liter V8. This awesome Torch Red 2006 model delivers in a big way on the promises made by its racy bodywork, and with only 270 red ones built in the final year of production, it's a great bet for future collectability.

One could argue that the world didn't need a muscle car with a bed and a folding hardtop, but few cars can draw a crowd like this SSR. A lot of folks don't know what it is and even those who do inevitably do a double-take at the rumble of the 6.0 liter V8, which absolutely transforms the truck. Of course, the deeply flared fenders (which required all-new technology to create), the subtly retro nose, and the dance of the hardtop, which folds neatly behind the cab, all contribute to its eyeball-attracting good looks. Most of these are kept in protected storage except for sunny day driving, and this one is no exception, showing few signs of use. Bright red is the right choice for something that's already an extrovert, and if you want it to look its best, it's only a deep cleaning away from really being a show-stopper. Pop the tonneau cover and you'll find a custom bed liner that means this truck can still be used as a truck.

The SSR delivers a full-luxury interior that's a far cry from the basic pickups that inspired it. Twin black leather buckets, a color-matched center console, and every comfort and convenience feature GM could dream up went inside. There's also lots of chrome, ranging from the steering wheel spokes to the knobs on the dash to the cool silver shifter for the 4-speed automatic transmission. Round dials control the HVAC and there's a great-sounding AM/FM/CD stereo system in the center of the dash, adding yet another layer of modern tech that nobody could have dreamed of decades ago. Other features include power windows and locks, A/C, cruise control, power seats, and a tilt steering column. And, of course, there's that remarkable folding hardtop that not only seals up like a closed car, but completely disappears behind the cab in a matter of seconds. If you want to attract a crowd, it takes nothing more than hitting the button in a parking lot.

The key to the SSR's impressive performance is a 6.0-liter V8 borrowed from the truck lineup. The original 5.3's performance was tepid at best, so the big horsepower injection was much welcome, finally giving the SSR the moves to match its looks. As an LS1-based powerplant, it's insanely easy to modify, but this one appears to be quite stock, so reliability and drivability is OEM. Turn the key and it starts, the idle is smooth, and it hammers around town like a Camaro with a bed. The transmission has quick reflexes that certainly make a big difference in the way it feels, and with powerful 4-wheel disc brakes and a suspension built more for handling than hauling, you'll never get tired of driving this truck. Flashy chrome wheels were one of the SSR's few options, and wear giant 255/45/19 front and 295/40/20 rear Goodyear RS-A radials.

If there's a collectable late-model Chevy, this is it. It's fast, it's fun, and name another V8-powered 2-seater with this much trunk space. Call today!