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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  Great car love the smooth ride - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Richard Cerkleski - February 7 - 7:44 am

  Had this car for 8 yrs not a bit of trouble only 37000 mi but still runs like new

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  Id buy another - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Chris - February 6 - 3:42 pm

  The only problems with the 01 LS were related to a set of bad tires. She runs nicely, adequate power even as she approaches 100K miles. Lots of room on the interior and big trunk make it a nice family vehicle. If I were going to buy another American car, I would definitely go with another Impala.

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  Happy Sales Mgr in Houston - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By David in Houston - February 2 - 4:50 am

  This is a company car for me. I travel a lot and its about 40% city mileage and 60% highway. I seldom drive over the posted speed limit and have been rewarded with hwy mileage as high as 36 MPG RT from Houston to New Orleans. Most trips 31-33 MPG I have had lots of different company cars and this one is the best ever. Ive yet to find a convenient E85 station so its been all regular gas, so far. Trunk is spacious. Flip and fold seats are great. Aux input for iPod is nice. No problems yet, with just over 30K 1st year. This car is a winner! 1st time I ever had a basic model that gets compliments about how good it looks from strangers. The best Impala ever! A keeper!

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  Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Grayowl - February 1 - 2:00 am

  This is a beautiful automobile that more than meets our expectations. We prefer it to our previous cars.

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  Hooked on Impala - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dorothy - January 31 - 4:37 pm

  First drove this car on a rental as well as various other vehicles, but when it came to actually putting my money where my mouth was, I chose to buy the Impala. This is my second Chev, I replaced my 13 year old Cavalier with this Impala. Solid drive, power when needed. Handles well on windy wintery highways so one feels secure. Size, styling and ride comfort has impressed both friends and family. Fuel economy for this size vehicle a big plus. My Dad drives an Impala and my sister drives the Malibu. Some engine noise on acceleration, but quietens downs upon reaching desired speed, very quiet on ignition,you wonder if the car is even running. Worth your investment

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  Happy Owner - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Lew - January 31 - 5:53 am

  When my lease was up on a 1999 Lincoln Continental, I decided to try the new Impala LS. I liked the luxury appointments such as sunroof, leather/heated seats, digital information center as well as the roominess. The 3.8L V6 has ample power and excellent fuel economy. The Impala is as roomy as my Continental and every bit as comfortable; at about half the price and cost of ownership. Outside of Corvette, this is probably the best overall value from GM. Great job, Chevrolet!!!

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  Enjoyable - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By imp8020 - January 29 - 2:00 am

  My Impala is a pleasure to drive. Ive had 5 people in the LS w/ plenty of room. It has a decent ride, but could be a lil softer w/ those nice expansion joints on highways. It has nice "get up and go" power, as well as ample passing power. I have taken the car on trips to Ohio from MD, and get great gas mileage. And very little discomfort after a 3-4hr drive. Overall, Im very satisfied w/ the vehicle. With the price, you cant kick all the extras you get.

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  17,000 miles and still love the car. - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By garnes - January 29 - 2:00 am

  Very solid feeling car. Rides as smoothly as much larger cars. (I have an Aurora too) Trunk at 18.6 cubic feet is incredibly large - blows all sedans away except maybe a Town Car. Seats are very comfortable - no comparison with any other car in this price range. The interior is quite handsome too. The all cast iron 3.8 V6 is basically indestructable. Oh yeah - the mileage is unbelievable for a car this size. It gets better mileage than lighter imports in this price range. It has a very high safety rating too - again better than most anything including the imports. Yeah, I love this car. No problems. Great value.

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  Tough to beat - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By SUV guy - January 29 - 2:00 am

  A very pleasant surprise. Virtually all areas of the Impala rate (by me) very high. Ride, handling, creature comfort, engine response are all top notch. Fit and finish were flawless on delivery. Impala may have a lot of competition in the $30K area, but this car sells in the 23K to 25K range. A real no brainer for anyone without money to burn.

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  "Found On Road Dead" was meant for Chevy, not Ford - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Sierra - January 27 - 5:23 am

  I have a 2004 Chevrolet Impala with just over 100,000 miles. This was a 1 owner car at purchase & I am the second owner. In the beginning this car I felt like I was getting a great deal and a great car all in one. WRONG! If I could give this 0 stars all across the board, I would. Ive owned this car less than a year, and am on my SECOND transmission. Thats just the start. This year is notorious for a hard shift & a whole lot of jerking when shifting. Ive taken the car to multiple shops only to be told theres nothing to fix that problem. Anytime I take off, the car wants to do a burn out after first hesitating to go. As I reach 1st 2nd and 3rd gear, you can expect a kick from the transmission EVERY SINGLE TIME. As I said, 2nd transmission, still does the jerk & hard shift just as the 1st one did. This is a very common issue & one that shouldve been recalled and taken care of. The body isnt too bad until it starts rusting all over the place all of the sudden, rust here, there, and everywhere all within a month. Went from a great body to a rust bucket quickly. If thats not enough already, each time I put gas in the car doesnt want to start (also a common issue). Dont let me forget that when I push the TRUNK button, the ALARM sounds & the DOORS LOCK. Window motors have gone out 3 times all within the 1 yeah of ownership. Chevrolet has done nothing about any of these problems not only for me but for mostly anyone that has had this model & year. To say the least, Id buy a bicycle before I would EVER own another Chevrolet. Theyve lost a customer for life on this one.