The Chevelle SS 396 became a regular series of its own in 1966.(style numbers 817 and 867 that year), was the high performance version and had its own line of engines and performance equipment. SS 396 coupes and convertibles used the same Malibu sport coupe and convertible bodies with reinforced frames and revised front suspension: higher-rate springs, recalibrated shocks, and thicker front stabilizer bar but with different exterior trim. They also had simulated hood scoops, red-stripe tires, and bright trim moldings. The performance engines available included 396 CID V8s – rated at 325 hp (242 kW), 350 hp (260 kW), and 375 hp (280 kW) respectively (the mid horsepower 396 was rated at 360 hp (270 kW) for 1966 only and 350 hp (260 kW) thereafter). The SS396 series lasted from 1966 through 1968 before being relegated to an option package. The 1966 and 1967 model years were the only 2 years of the 'strut back' 2-door sport coupe with its own style number, 17.

New Body 1966–1967

1966 saw a complete restyle of the Chevelle on the previous frame that included smooth contours, a broad new grille and bumper treatment, and curved side windows. Bulging rear fender lines and a "flying buttress" roofline (tunneled into the "C" pillar) were highlights of the '66 hardtops, shared with other GM "A" body models. The new body reflected the "Coke bottle" body shape that became the fad for American cars in the mid-1960s. A hardtop-styled Sport Sedan joined the Malibu series. Chevelles continued in 300, 300 Deluxe, and Malibu trim. Available engines were a 327-cubic-inch V-8 instead of either of the sixes, or the mid-level option, a 220-horsepower 283-cubic-inch V-8. Judicious attention to the options list could add a tachometer, mag-style wheel covers, and sintered-metallic brakes.

The 1967 models got some styling tweaks that resulted in a longer, more straightforward appearance. Large tail lamps went into a new rear end with standard backup lights. Otherwise, visible change was modest. "What you'll see inside," claimed the sales brochure for the 1967 Chevelle, "will probably bring on a severe compulsion to go driving." Front disc brakes were available on all models, and a new dual master cylinder brake system incorporated a warning light. An entire host of new safety equipment became standard, including a collapsible steering column making the 1967 models safer cars. The SS396 continued as the only Super Sport model, in both Sport Coupe and Convertible body styles. The 375-horsepower 396-cubic-inch V-8 officially departed from the options list however 612 were still built. Buyers selected from no less than six transmissions: two three-speeds, four-speed, overdrive, and two automatics. The manual-shift feature of the Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission was touted in advertising. Options included Superlift air shock absorbers, Strato-ease headrests, and special instrumentation. Although Chevy's big news for 1967 was the introduction of the Camaro, Chevelle offered a more traditional sort of sportiness.

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