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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  Impala #1 - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By susan - October 13 - 6:30 am

  Starts easily, excellent low speed pickup, great hi speed overdrive, consistent mileage (25-27). Very nice stereo/cd (easy for non pros to enjoy), quiet inside & out. Comfortable smooth ride except for one place where it vibrates from the road. Very responsive in tight places. Excellent cargo space and accessability. Good long trip car, but maybe a bit more road noise control.

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  Stop Living In The Past - 1994 Chevrolet Impala
  By banx - October 10 - 9:29 am

  I owned this car for a year in 96. Compared to todays cars, its a slug. Curb weight was 4200 lbs and with only 260 hp, 0-60 was almost 8 seconds. Almost any car today can do that. Handling was great for the time, but a new car would run rings around it now. It was relatively easy to maintain, but not well assembled. I loved the aggressive look then. Today it looks like a brick on wheels. The best part of the SS was its ability to hold so many passengers and their equipment.

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  Great car at a great price - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Wil4189 - October 7 - 11:36 am

  I pruchased this car with 25,000 miles, and have put 36,000 on myself. The most major repair has been the replacement of lubricant in the steering shaft, cost a whole $100. I am ecstatic with my gas mileage. I drive 500 miles a week, and I average 28 to 32 miles per gallon. Runs smooth with a great ride. Very minor road noise but nothing major. For a car with only 180hp, it does move when you want it to. It has great styling, I love the design of the dash and gauges. The outside has a great apperance and stance. I have added some custom floor mats and upgraded the stereo by a lot. I will be adding tint and rims soon! However, if youre planning on an Impala, get one with an autodimming mirror!

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  Glad I bought it! - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By larry - September 21 - 9:48 am

  I had a Dodge Intrepid. Worst mistake ever! Got the Impala, and was happy from the moment I bought it. Much better quality overall. The gas mileage is very impressive for a large car. I tend to be a little heavy on the gas, and average 37 mpg on the road! Overall, I average 29 mpg. I would definitely buy another one. I hope the 3.4 is as good an engine!

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  Very friendly=== - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Bobwar - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Excelelnt handler . Have made many road trips and have yet to get less than 33 mpg-and that is driving at 75-80 mph. To go 500 - 600 on a tank of gas is awesome. Very smooth on the road,keep your radio turned up or this car will putyou to sleep.

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  Awesome Value for Money - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Ray Campbell - September 19 - 7:31 pm

  This is my first Impala, and I have to say it is the best car I have owned. Had it for a year now, and Im still impressed. I looked at the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry, but the Impala SS gave me the best value for money. Was able to get all the bells and whistles for a great price. Plenty of room, lots of power, stylish good looks, and great gas mileage for a large sedan. Its a joy to drive. I get tons of complements on the laser blue color. It looks blue or purple depending on with angle you look at it. Great for long drive or short trips around town. I would buy another Impala.

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  Outstanding Gas Mileage - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Robert Yamin - September 16 - 2:20 pm

  Great car for the highway. Drove round trip to Maryland from Florida. Averaged 70 MPH, got 35 MPG. Plenty of room for passengers, and a large trunk for luggage. Has more power with a 3.4 engine than my previous 3.8 Mustang.

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  Six Months In - Glad to have it! - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By V. NICK - September 15 - 8:13 pm

  We purchased this 2003 Impala pre-owned in April. The fuel economy is impressive, particularly on long drives out of state. The spaceous cabin and trunk are a plus with the kids. Its nice to be able to drive something sensible yet sporty, and not have to drive a minivan! Im fine with the build quality. Others forget that more impressive builds = more money on the sticker. Its a car! And since all cars depreciate and break, I dont want to pay more than I should.

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  Excellent - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By terry - September 15 - 8:01 am

  It does very well on the highway. I drive it on the weekends going on long term drives. The seats are very comfortable for those long rides. To me this is the best car in the world.

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  Capable sport sedan - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jeff - September 6 - 9:31 pm

  In 5 years of ownership I have not had a single issue regarding drivabiliy or dependablity. For $25,000, a car with a good deal of ammenities. All the ones youd expect, with the additon of full leather, and the added bonus of a sport suspension. Had driven the non-LS version as a rental, and really liked what Chevrolet did to punch up basically a family sedan.