The third generation debuted in 1958 and the Chevrolet models produced were lower, longer, and heavier than the previous models with a new option of 348 cubic inches. Bel Air introduced a new model, the Impala which was offered at first as a hardtop coupe and convertible and was a halo vehicle. The Impala styling had the basics of other Chevrolet models but it had some specific cues of styling like a different roofline, a side trim, three taillights, and a vent above the rear window. Also available were the Delray and Biscayne models. Chevrolet designs had no much chrome found on other GM models at the time and were better priced too.
Chevrolet designs had broad grille and quad headlights with the tail having an alcove-shaped fan on both side panels housing double taillights. Chevrolet’s popularity was based on the Bel Air with consumers making Chevrolet designs being the number one automobiles. Bel Air came in so many body styles and models covering all the expectations consumers had for a luxury vehicle. The 1958 Nomad wagon was different from the ’57 one being the premium four-door Chevrolet station wagon. All the Chevrolet station wagons had two taillights at each side of the body making space in between for the rear gate. It also had a new dashboard. The Bel Air had a new ‘Safety-Girder’ cruciform frame. It had similarities with the ’57 Cadillac frame and had box-section side rails and a box-shaped front that was under the engine. The cross members would later be used on the ‘60s Cadillac and Chevys. It was later considered ineffective in case of a side collision although it was used through 1965. The Powerglide transmission began to use the ‘PRNDL’ arrangement and dropped the ‘PNDLR’ transmission selector arrangement considered dangerous by many.