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Originally Posted by BigAls87Z28
In an optimal world, the next generation Impala FWD would be equiped with a 6spd auto, and a 3.6 standard. 250hp V6 and 6spd auto would make for a heck of a ride. This could be something to go agaisnt the Avalon, Taurus/Sable.
I guess GM is trying to mimic Ford. It has the Fusion (Malibu), Taurus (Impala FWD), and Crown Vic (RWD Chevy).
Toyota has the 2 tier system ( Camry and Avalon)
Honda has one (Accord)
Nissan has 2 (Altima and Maxima)
Chrysler has 2 (Sebring and 300)
Dodge has 2 ( Avenger and Charger)
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Chevy should mimic Ford as they are the main competitor for Domestic car buyers and GM seems to have lost track of this fact, and that these domestic car buyers are VERY loyal to US car makers and GM needs to retain features on cars like OHV engines that these buyers like for the MPG the deliver. (And I know that there are many domestic buyers who also like OHC V6 and V8 engines but there are still millions of prospective buyers who still like the OHV). GM cannot afford to alienate these loyal buyers when there is absolutely no reason to do so, GM does make the OHC V6 and none of the domestic buyers will care if it is offered in a different trim level of the Impala. There is no reason for Import buyers to care about the Impala offering the OHV V6 as standard either, if it is not the trim level they are looking at. The LTZ trim level is competitive in price to the Accord/Camry/Avalon, so when import buyers cross shop the Impala against the others it should do well.
The only area the Impala is lacking is in option content, where things like telescoping wheel, adjustable pedals and 10 way power seats (and a few other features) are lacking.
The base powertrain for the Impala should stay as is with the 3500 and 4-speed auto, remember MAXIMUM value is what GM needs to focus on and a OHC V6 engine will never compete for value with an OHV one.
Remember this car is for FAMILY car buyers low purchase price and low day to day operating costs are the main "performance" parameters.
The LT model should have the 3500 with 6-speed and an RS model should offer the 3900 Flex Fuel V6 with 250 HP and 6-speed for OHV V6 fans wanting more peformance.
The LTZ models should offer the 3.6L DI engine tuned for max MPG (maybe only 280 HP) with 6-speed to appeal to Import buyers and domestic buyers wanting a the OHC engine.
The SS would remain with the 6-speed added.
This would give GM the best overall sedan on the market for the price and appeal to the broadest range of buyers.
Yes, it will have some shortcomings in chassis dynamics but who cares if you factor in what it is costing you there will be few times the typical Impala buyer is really going to notice them.