Ever since the Pontiac G8 died way before its time, many American buyers have been clamoring for a possible Chevrolet Impala SS replacement. For a short time, it was rumored the next Impala would also be based off the same rear-wheel-drive platform as the Holden Commodore, aka the G8. Sadly, we learned for certain that wasn't the case at the 2012 New York Auto Show with the launch of the redesigned Impala, once again with a V6 engine and front-wheel-drive.
However, a leak last month from an OnStar document revealed that not only is Chevrolet intent on having a proper V8, rear-drive sedan, but it will be launched sometime in 2013 as a 2014 model. According to a new report coming from GM Inside News, GM announced in March that the Impala would be dropped as the brand's NASCAR entry for an all-new sedan sometime next year. Basically, this was the first indicator that something was up. Followed by that OnStar document which also listed all compatible 2014 model-year products, including the "Chevrolet SS Performance Sedan", it's pretty much a given that a RWD V8 Chevy sedan is coming soon.
Chevrolet has been mum on details, but sources indicate the new sedan will once again be based on the Commodore SS-V (just like the G8). Just to give you an idea how serious Chevrolet is about this car is that it won't even likely be offered with a V6. Yes, the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 will probably be the only engine offered. In addition, the new SS sedan will be available with more options than the G8, such as the Holden's iQ infotainment system. To sum up, the Pontiac G8 isn't dead after all; it just took some time off and is returning as a Chevrolet. Photos displayed are of the 2008 Pontiac G8 GT.