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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  2008 Impala LT - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Manny Barriger - May 27 - 2:06 am

  The vehicle was purchased in February of 2008. I like the looks of the all black, with the cherry wood dash. My transportation has been predominately in the city, which gives me about 24-24 mpg. I have taken the car on one trip across the state of Wisconsin from Milwaukee to LaCrosse. The ride was good, and the vehicle got up to 32 mpg on the trip. It may have gotten better, but we had it fully loaded with 3 people and about 450 lbs worth of stuff. That is what I find neat about this car, its full size and the ability to get mileage that competes with the small compact foreign cars. The other thing I like is the oil life indicator, I get about 5,000 miles between oil changes.

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  2006 New Impala - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By robertsilas2 - May 22 - 1:03 am

  I wanted the biggest car I could get with lots of room and comfort for the lowest possible price. Thats what I got. Good acceleration and passing power. But the engine seems to lug when turning the corner from a stop. Whats up with that?

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  Powerwindow Squeals /trim is coming off - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Lila - May 19 - 3:23 am

  Great car. But it has been to dealer twice for them to repair screeching driver window. The last time was 2 days ago. Window is still squealing. The trim is coming off on driver side where the doors meet. Both doors have peeling trim? What the heck? The car has 5000 miles on it? Love the car but becoming very disappointed in my new car.

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  After 5 years... - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By GENE - May 18 - 6:42 am

  I bought my fully loaded Impala LS right off the lot with 13 miles on it. After 5 years and mostly city travel, I can now say it has been virtualy trouble free. Plenty of horsepower, and room for 5 adults. Trunk is huge. Only had a couple of trouble with the fan speed modulator and coolant sensor. Thats it! At 38,000 miles still on the original brakes, and I am now averaging a lot better gas mileage 21 around town. And I average over 32 MPG highway at 55 MPH. I have gotten over 35 MPG highway on back roads from Fitchburg, Ma. to Kneene, NH. I was thinking of trading last year to a new Honda Civic. Then I said to myself why? I would lose all this roominess!

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  3rd Time Is Still The Charm - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By "Happy Impala Owner" - May 16 - 10:43 pm

  I ordered this Impala LTZ new in Feb.08. Traded in a 2004 Impala SS which I thought I was going to keep as a collector, but replaced 2 for 1 (also traded an 05 Malibu). I have no complaints on the looks or quality of this Impala. Rides well, looks sharp and has been a pleasure to own. Only concern I have is that the gas mileage will improve. Have been getting 25 - 29 mpg on regular Unleaded gas as it is multifuel and just doesnt do well on E-85 gas. Have 2,300 miles on it and have every available feature. Think I have a great car!

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  awesom - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By bran - May 16 - 2:00 am

  The car is great...I would recommend it to anyone that likes a fun car but still need practicality

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  4th Chevy, 2nd Impala - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Will - May 14 - 2:06 pm

  What a great car! The ride, handling, interior comfort and design are far superior to my 01 Impala! Acceleration and braking are wonderful, and it has a much stiffer suspesion. Not a sports car, but this car is comfortable, fun to drive, and looks sporty yet elegant. A terrific family car that honors the drivers instincts. Right out of the dealership I am getting 34 MPG on the hightway with AC running! And it takes "Flex Fuel" to boot!- I am very satisfied with this vehicle. Chevy has a real hit here.

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  Some Problems - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Don - May 11 - 6:26 pm

  This is a fun car to drive. We have had some problems with the engine/SS/fuel injectors. The car is still under warranty. The car begins to sputter driving over 40 mph when you hit the gas peddle. Also, the power steering seems to be going out. Something loose in the column and getting harder to turn when driving slower. Chevy dealers cant seem to find the problem.

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  Best car i ever had - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Sam Ventura - May 5 - 10:00 am

  this is a comfort, quiet and powerfull car

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  GM NEVER AGAIN! - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By NEVER AGAIN! - May 5 - 9:10 am

  I have had a GM car or truck since 1975. My friends point out to me that when you go back you cant complain. But, this car is a new low. After 300 (yes 300) miles the car basically is inoperable. The gauges dont work (except check engine light), no A/C, the message display says "engine hot" yet no heat. Also, there is a vibration in front end. So much for the good new car feeling. After having my car 1 day, the dealer says the problems with "my" car are very interesting. They were unable to diagnose in 1 day. My feelings are that "GMs" problems are very interesting. Maybe I just got "that" car. But, this american will turn to more reliable imports for future purchases