2014 Chevrolet
Better fuel economy, big-time power upgrades
CAMARO
The 2014 Chevrolet Camaro ($24,550 base) has new headlights, taillights, grille and the return of the Z/28 moniker. With the existing 426-horsepower SS and 580-hp ZL1 models, the Chevy Camaro lineup had horsepower, but now the racetrack-ready Z/28 adds handling and weight-saving measures to a 7.0-liter V8 delivering 500 hp.
SPARK
The 2014 Chevrolet Spark is the hatchback sedan with the EV option. The Spark is the entry-level for Chevrolet’s lineup. Bold color options include Salsa, Denim and Lemonade. The entry-level price is $12,170. Look for 10 airbags, in-dash nav system, smartphone app with live locator and traffic data. Spark has a 1.2-liter I4 engine with 5-speed manual or CVT automatic.
EQUINOX
For 2014, the Chevrolet Equinox is mostly unchanged. The Equinox has been one of the most popular small crossover SUVs thanks to sharp looks, comfort and practicality. This compact crossover offers a strong V6 engine, good for towing or hauling. With an impressive comfort and quietness in the cabin, this small Chevy SUV’s rear seat reclines and slides for generous row-2 legroom.
SILVERADO
The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado maintains its working-truck approach. The Silverado handles like a big car and its exterior manages to maintain previous Chevrolet DNA utility looks. A hefty 4.3-liter V-6 offers 305 lb-ft of torque and is rated for 24 mpg highway; an optional 5.3- and 6.2-liter V-8 is available with greater towing and hauling capabilities.
CRUZE
The Cruze Diesel model, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel four-cylinder, is the big news for the Cruze lineup. This sedan offers efficiency and style rivaling anything in its class. The Cruze offers high-efficiency 4-cylinder engines, great handling and a lowkey sophisticated design inside and out. The 2.0-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder delivers 33 mpg combined and a 47 mpg EPA highway fuel economy rating.
VOLT
Chevrolet Volt gets a $5,000 price drop this year. Volt’s EPA combined estimate of 37 mpg now comes with a price tag of $34,995. A midsize 4-door hatchback, the Volt is mostly powered by an electric motor delivering 149 horsepower (111 kilowatts) and 273 pound-feet of torque. The Volt can run about 38 miles on battery power alone, then the 1.4-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine kicks in to generate electricity that extends the car’s overall range by another 300 miles.
SS SPORTS SEDAN
With a base price of $45,770, the Chevrolet SS is an all-new model for 2014. Big f ans of rearwheel-drive V8 Detroit power will love this full-size sedan, which is a civilian version of the Caprice PPV sold to American police departments. The rear-drive SS f eatures a 6.2-liter V8 offering 415 horsepower and 415 pound-f eet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard.
IMPALA
The 2014 Chevrolet Impala is fully redesigned. The 10th generation is built on a new platform delivering precise handling and a modern personality. New soft-f eel interior materials make this a classy new-gen sedan. The 305-hp 6-cylinder engine delivers nice acceleration. Impala has two 4-cylinder engines: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and 2.4-liter eAssist mild hybrid option. The Chevy Impala eAssist, gets 35 mpg on the highway.
SONIC
The subcompact 2014 Chevrolet Sonic is a sedan and hatchback that is more refined than most imports. An optional 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine has solid acceleration and outstanding fuel economy. With its firmer suspension and fun six-speed manual gearbox, the sportier Sonic RS model can be a real blast to drive.
MALIBU
The Chevrolet Malibu gets some 2014 upgrades including a new center console with more storage and added rear cabin room for passengers. Malibu is still an attractive sedan and the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine gets some tweaks, including a stop-start system for increased fuel economy ratings. Chevy has revised the optional turbocharged engine to produce 295 pound-f eet of torque. Base price is $22,199.
TRAVERSE
The 2014 Chevrolet Traverse is a standout people mover with a base of $31,670. The cabin is a roomy space for 8 with plenty of utility storage space. A new LTZ trim offers forward collision-alert and lane-departure warning systems. Look for standard rearview camera and MyLink infotainment interface with quality audio, navigation and phone functions in a touchscreen.