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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  Awesome Redesign - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By BigDaddy1973 - May 27 - 11:13 pm

  My decision to purchase the new redesigned Impala SS has been a welcomed one. It has an all new body style that I am sure will entice buyers to rethink going away from American sport/luxury. I am very pleased with its acceleration and handling as well. The interior has a rich feel and an impressive sound system, as well. Overall, I am excited at my new purchase of the 2006 Impala SS.

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  Love my Impala - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By Harlan Epps - May 24 - 6:03 pm

  My wife and I have been very pleased with the performance of this car. We love the style and color. We are pleased with the safety features and anti-theft. We have not had any major problems with the mechanics or physical condition. Very comfortable on trips and we find it to be very economical. Do not plan to get rid of it any time soon.

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  SS Impala 2008 - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Doug - May 23 - 6:10 am

  The SS is a good overall car. I traded in an Audi A4 3.2. There is no comparison the Audi wins hands down. The SS is a big roomy car and fun to drive, it has power and looks great but the handling + torque steer makes it an effort to drive other then in a straight line. The car is a gas guzzler unless you drive it slow.When you drive it aggressivly be prepared to get 12 mpg. If you set the cruise control at 62 mph on the highway you will get 19mpg. Driving easy around town your best gas mileage wil be 15 mpg. I do like the car for the money. People stop to look at this car and they really like the sound, most cant beleive its a Chevy. If the new model is RWD I will buy another one.

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  Bang for your buck - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Gerald Del Sasso - May 19 - 6:59 pm

  I read reviews about the impala and I was couldnt help to notice Cheverolet advertised this large car was best in class gas mileage. So I took it for a test drive and I have been smiling ever since. I am so happy I bought this car and its alot more than I thought I could afford. The 200 HP 3.8L has some giddy-up and around town and I am still averaging over 28mpg according to the trip computer it came with. The XM package coupled with the 200W stereo make this car a must have for anyone who has drives 15000 a year. Dont take my word for it, you wont believe how far you dollar will stretch.

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  Good Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jason - May 15 - 9:04 pm

  I just got this car 2 weeks ago and have found it to be nothing but a pleasure. I was a little concerned when i seen the brown sludge under the radiator cap, but was relieved when the dealer told me it is a sealent put there from the factory. The room in this car is amazing, at least coming from my old car, a 1997 Dodge Stratus.

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  Poor brakes - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By polish cowboy - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I`ve had the car in three times to have the front brake rotors turned.I have had brake performance problems very early. The dealer asked me if my driving habits had changed and I said no and that I got eighty eight thousand miles on my front brakes on my last lumina.

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  This Car Rocks - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By iglazzman - May 10 - 7:16 am

  Only problem has been air pressure with the tires. This car is the best of both worlds. FWD for the snow living in the northeast but a real sports car feel. One word, awesome.

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  Great Deal - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Joe P. - May 10 - 1:10 am

  Purchased the car just before Thanksgiving to replace the old one that was past its time (the rust finally got to it). Have no complaints or problems with the car. Been getting an average of 25 mpg in the city and on the longer drives right around 29, although Ill admit Im a a bit of a leadfoot. Im very pleased with my purchase.

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  Sporty Impala - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By wfujioka - May 9 - 7:04 pm

  I purchased the Sports Appearance package and this is the best car that I have bought so far, it has a lot of pep & go and is exceptional on the road. The steering is a little loose. I am currently getting 27-28 miles per gallon. Looking forward to the 2006 edition. That is when my wife will exchange her 2002 Monte Carlo for another Impala.

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  So Far So Good! My LTZ is a GREAT car! - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Markj5362 - May 8 - 2:46 am

  I have now owned my 06 LTZ for 10 months and have driven it for 34,000 miles. This is a great car so far.I love the styling, ride, and features like XM and OnStar. Only had it in the shop once for an annoying rattle coming from the rear headliner. Found out it was the antenna bracket coming loose. Would like to see GM improve the climate control. Make it automatic like on the Regal/Lacrosse. This is my first Chevy for a while, so Im hoping it provides many trouble free miles. I have had Buicks in the past which have been very reliable cars.