The Chevy II and Nova finally got a handsome redesign in 1966 and sales jumped 25 percent to 163,300 units. A full-length body line divided the side, the front fenders were now hooded over single headlights, a simple horizontal-barred anodized aluminum grille divided the headlights, and the taillights were now set vertically in crisply squared-off rear fenders.

The 1966 Chevy II lineup continued with the base 100 model, offering two- and four-door sedans and a station wagon. The Nova Super Sport really gained ground with a handsome fastback hardtop. Once again there was no convertible in any line.

Base engines remained the 90 bhp four for the 100 model, but the main engine was the 120 bhp, 194 cid, while the 195 bhp, 283 cid V-8 was gaining popularity in the lightweight body. Other V-8s included a 220 bhp version of the 283, a 275 bhp 327, and a 350 bhp 327.

A full instrument package filled the 1966 Nova Super Sport dash, the interior was vinyl with bucket seats and a central console, and the exterior had numerous brightwork accents and SS emblems. Super Sport numbers are conflicting but it appears that 16,300 buyers opted for a V-8-powered SS hardtop and a further 10,100 chose a six

Options included air conditioning, tinted glass, power brakes, power steering, pushbutton AM/FM radio, tachometer, Positraction rear axle, front seat belts, Mag style wheel covers, wire wheel covers, and two-tone paint.

Chevrolet offered 15 exterior colors for the 1966 Chevy II and Impala, including Tuxedo Black, Ermine White, Mist Blue, Danube Blue, Marina Blue, Willow Green, Artesian Turquoise, Tropic Turquoise, Aztec Bronze, Madeira Maroon, Regal Red, Sandalwood Tan, Cameo Beige, Chateau Slate, and Lemonwood Yellow.

Chevrolet’s 1966 model year production peaked at 2,215,975 units, though production of full-size cars slipped by 150,000 units. While sales of Chevelle and Nova models had both increased, the surge would be short-lived.