Overview & Reviews

When Chevrolet sent the first Impala off the assembly line in 1958, it was meant to be "a prestige car within the reach of the average American citizen." It would seem that the company was successful; six decades on, the Chevrolet Impala has become one of America's most well-known nameplates.

Since the new millennium, the modern Impala has served as Chevrolet's main full-size sedan. While "prestige car" isn't really an apt descriptor anymore, the Impala has offered a roomy interior (with available six-passenger seating) along with strong and increasingly fuel-efficient engines. In our opinion, older, used Impalas from this time period aren't likely going to be the best choice for a large sedan, as they suffer from substandard interior quality and forgettable driving dynamics. But the newest Impala, thanks to its many improvements, is certainly worth considering.

Current Chevrolet Impala
Today's five-passenger Impala starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 195 horsepower 187 pound-feet of torque. An optional 3.6-liter V6 makes 305 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. Also offered is the mild hybrid Eco model with an "eAssist" powertrain that combines a 182-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a small 15-hp electric motor, providing the best fuel economy of the Impala lineup.

The Impala features LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. Standard feature highlights for the LS include a power-adjustable driver seat, full power accessories, Bluetooth, USB/iPod connectivity and a color display. The LT adds alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control and the MyLink infotainment interface with an 8-inch touchscreen display. Most LT options are bundled into packages and include such items as a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry and extra safety features. The LTZ gets these items as standard, along with leather upholstery. Other options, depending on trim level, include navigation, premium audio, 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control and ventilated front seats.

In reviews and ratings, we've concluded that the latest Chevrolet Impala distinguishes itself from other large sedans with sharp styling and a capacious trunk, though it loses points for some flimsy interior plastics, a fussy MyLink interface and middling fuel economy figures. Overall, though, the current Impala is fully worthy of your consideration if you're shopping for a large sedan.

Used Chevrolet Impala Models
The current Chevrolet Impala represents the nameplate's 10th generation, which was introduced in the 2014 model year. Mechanically, it's related to the latest Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS. Compared to the previous Impala, the latest generation is more stylish, with bigger curves, bolder lines and a bit more length. Inside, there's a modern design, higher-quality materials and up-to-date electronics.

The previous, ninth-generation Chevrolet Impala was produced for the 2006-'13 model years. Improvements on this model compared to the previous-generation Impala included new engines, more composed handling, a higher-quality interior and updated styling. Even so, we generally regarded this Impala as pretty forgettable and outclassed by any of its contemporaries.

Impalas of this generation were offered in three main trim levels: entry-level LS, midgrade LT and range-topping LTZ. From 2006-'09, there was also an Impala SS.

Typical features for the LS models included 16-inch wheels, a front bench seat, air-conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt steering wheel, a power driver seat, a single-CD audio system with an MP3 jack, and keyless entry. Moving up to the LT model added alloy wheels and a few more features, while the LTZ included 17-inch (later 18-inch) alloys, heated leather seats and a Bose audio system. The SS came with monochromatic exterior paint, a performance-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels and a rear spoiler. LS and LT models could be optioned with a front bench seat, which increased passenger capacity to six.

Until 2012, the LS and LT came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 211 hp. Standard on the LTZ of the same period was a 3.9-liter V6 good for 230 hp. All of these Chevy Impalas came with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Chevy Impala SS model of this period had a 303-hp 5.3-liter V8 and the four-speed auto. For 2012 and 2013, all Impalas received a new 300-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine yielded quicker acceleration and better fuel economy to boot.

In reviews at the time, we found that the ninth-generation Impala provided a number of big-sedan perks, including a smooth ride, quiet interior, seating for six, decent crash test ratings and a generously sized trunk. The problem was that the Impala didn't excel in any of these areas and was generally hamstrung by underwhelming performance, bland styling, cheap-looking interior materials and a lack of feature availability. Contemporaries like the Dodge Charger, Hyundai Azera or Toyota Avalon make for better used choices.

The eighth-generation Impala was offered from 2000-'05, marking the resurrection of the Impala as a mainstream offering. There were only minimal changes during its production run. Its basic dimensions are very similar to those of its successor, but it was even less competitive in its class. For this generation, there were two main trim levels -- base and LS. In 2004, Chevy added the SS trim.

The base model was powered by a 3.4-liter V6 engine that produced 180 hp. Stepping up to LS trim got you a 200-hp, 3.8-liter V6. The SS had a supercharged version of the 3.8-liter V6 making 240 hp. Though popular in terms of sales, this Impala did not fare well in reviews conducted by Edmunds.com editors. Noted downsides included bland interior and exterior design, vague steering and a soggy suspension on base and LS models.

Prior to this, there was a short-lived Chevrolet Impala SS. Offered from 1994-'96, it was based on the rear-drive Caprice. The SS featured a 260-hp, 5.7-liter V8 derived from the Corvette, large 17-inch wheels and tires, a sport tuned suspension, a monochromatic exterior (black only in its first year) and many hardware upgrades normally fitted to law enforcement vehicles. Today, the ‘90s Impala SS's have taken on a "collectible" quality.

There are also plenty of Impalas left from earlier decades. Those early Impalas were often America's most popular car, and they still hold significance today. Throughout the 1960s, the Chevy Impala dominated the sales charts, culminating in 1965 when more than 1 million were sold. Though the popularity of smaller, midsize muscle cars slowly ate away at sales of the Impala, it continued to sell in big numbers, registering as the best-selling car in America in 1973. The Impala nameplate languished in the early 1980s, eventually getting dropped in 1986 in favor of the Caprice designation.

User Reviews:

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  The SS impala is a great car - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Craig - January 20 - 11:36 am

  Ive had my Impala SS for a alittle under a year now and I love it. Ive had to put some work into it since then though, I bought the car with 80,000 miles on it and it was in great condition. Whoever owned it before me took great care of this car. However the repairs i had to make were very costly, i had to replace the alternator, the battery and get a full brake job. Not sure if its something I did to it or if it was just long over due. This car will sometimes turn heads but not that much since I live in the DC area and everyone drives a benz, BMW, infiniti, and some of the other luxury brands. Im not a fan of the front wheel drive and the interior is lackluster but those are things that are manageable. I love the big factory brand wheels and I can never keep the sunroof closed. The leather seats are comfy and the SS decals are nicely placed throughout the car. The trunk is huge and there is plenty of space in the interior. Dual pipes look nice on the car and overall adds to the performance I think. Its a nice size car and really fun to drive.

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  2013 Impala LTZ made a frugal man happy. - 2013 Chevrolet Impala
  By Steve - December 23 - 10:38 am

  Well, Im on the cusp of my 31st birthday and I have decided to finance my first vehicle. I love cars. I played racing games growing up, I watch Top Gear, Im in the loop. Speed, Power, and Style are all highly appealing to me. But, with that said, I live in the city. I commute to work everyday. I hope to travel. And, Im not rich. I needed a car that fit my profile and the deal needed to be right. The Impala was the perfect selection. I dont give a care about its dime a dozen style, or its plastic interior, its a great car. These new V-6s crank out power with zero effort. I absolutely love when it comes time to pass or merge, it just tickles me pink. Luckily, I wont be cruising any mountain ranges any time soon like your latest Acura commercial, so I dont need sports care steering. Honestly, the steering isnt great. The steering wheel is tight and it doesnt attack corners, but it doesnt matter. I dont need that when I pull into Walgreens. The cabin has all the space you need, and plenty of road presence. Everything everybody likes about the cars in these reviews are true. In short, I just wanted to drop in and advise not to split hairs over professional reviews. They are after innovation, design, and refinement. The Impala lacks primarily in innovation. However, this will save you thousands. When I was looking at a $13,000 Impala thats fully loaded at 55k miles and its right next to a Honda Accord with the same mileage but at $17,000, the decision was clear to me. Its all about the driver.

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  Got Chevy! - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By richard - December 11 - 4:13 pm

  I have a 2003 Chevy Impala which was my company car. I was able to purchase it after the lease ended. It was well maintained per company policy. It had high mileage due to my driving it for business. Because it had no real issues I felt it would be a good buy in 2006 with 72500 miles on it. I have not been disappointed. Its real value is it is paid for. Now that I am retired it is used as a second car. I put on a few thousand miles a year just doing local trips to the store etc. Hope to keep it for many more years. It is the best american car I have owned.

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  Love my 2007 impala - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By impala - October 14 - 12:50 am

  Bought my 07 impala last year in 2014 with 99,000 now im at 150,000 gotta say its great still shifting smooth engine runs great the LT model in which I have will not last long with aggressive driving. Drives nicely change your fluids frequently and this car will run for a long time!

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  Long term rental - 2015 Chevrolet Impala
  By David Norris - October 6 - 3:49 am

  I was on an assignment so I got an impala for a long term rental. I drove it to and from work, to and from my home, and around town. I generally like it. However, my biggest peeve is the noise. I was convinced that the rear window was open because of all the road noise I could hear in my left ear. But, no, that is just its lack of sound deadening material. In every other aspect this is a nice car. But, it is just too noisy. Trunk is quite large. It is a large car.

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  Good Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Lanita - October 3 - 9:54 pm

  I have a 2004 Chevy Impala LS performance is great, but a few problems so far. Bought at 109,000 miles but when it rains outside it somehow creates a small puddle in the front passenger side floor. Also hesitates to start after i get gas, and trembles sometimes when i start it. But i still love it strong and powerful engine, and usually gets me where i need to go.

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  My midlife crisis car that became my nightmare - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Richard Prell - August 4 - 6:46 am

  After returning from a deployment to Afganistan I decided I wanted something with a little get up and go. I had always had Buicks which I have nothing bad to say about any of them. I have always serviced my cars regularly and my Impala SS was no exception. I was trouble free for the first year of ownership and then it all unraveled. First the transmission let loose. While doing the transmission I asked them to replace the leaking oil pan gasket and rear main seal. When they took off the gasket they found pieces that are part of the timing chain area in the pan. The car did not jump time but the motor had to be removed and a new chain installed because the other one was loose. 5000 dollars later I have my car back. It is not that I dislike Chevy it is the fact that i was told by numerous mechanics that the pieces around the timing chain were a mistake from the factory. Americans work very hard for there money and I find it inexcuseable that someone in the factory assembled this wrong and it got by how many quaility control people?

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  Blind Spots - 2012 Chevrolet Impala
  By Joyce Bronk - July 20 - 8:30 am

  This car has blind spots. If you are shorter and need to move the seat forward for driving the headrest on the both the passenger and driver make it difficult for lane changes. The mirrors out need to be redesigned because you cant see when a car is in the lane next you when it is between the rear of your car and the back door. I have purchased addition mirrors to help with these problems because I nearly caused two accidents because of poor visibility. Other than that I love the car.

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  A few problems but awesome to drive - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By jquinones - May 4 - 11:02 am

  Ok there were a few problems to the build. there was a design flaw that allows water to go from the front of the car by the hood, to the back passenger side. The amp power cord splits into 2 between the front and the rear seats. and the water corrodes that. so you have to fix that, also the front always scrapes when I go up on something. other than that its a really good car nice and roomy inside too. "I have a 65" cousin that wanted to buy my car." It has a lot of torque too, you just floor it and you can feel it just kick in a few seconds later.

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  Possible defect in navigation screen design may make visibilty unreliable. - 2015 Chevrolet Impala
  By 4safety - April 22 - 8:58 am

  While driving, if the suns glare hits the 45degree front screen in the 2015 Chevy Impala, the navigation picture may suddenly become invisible. This is especially hazardous when in reverse, when you expect extra rear visibility as an additional safety feature.