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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  So its kind of fun to drive, but..... - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By realcarguy - January 24 - 4:46 pm

  I have never had a car that promised so much, but delivered so little! The design, fit and finish on the exterior is ridiculous. Side door trim pieces falling off and roof trim poping up are more than just an aggrevation. The rear drivers inner wheel welll now has an ugly screw in it to keep it from gaping away from the fender. Both heated seats still dont work (they are working on it folks - I expect a "software" fix in summer since the hardware change didnt). The windshield washer still sprays low after two replacements. You would think a real 40K drivers car would come with complete gauges. The gas mileage stinks at 22 hwy on a good day downhill with a tail wind and a drafting partner!

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  Very Generic Feeling - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Pablo - July 4 - 2:00 am

  In short, this car just came off feeling like a very generic economy sedan. The HP and Torque numbers look good on paper, but on the road the 3.4L engine was quite anemic. The steering had a huge dead spot in the middle on straightaways at highway speeds; keeping it on-center took a lot of work. Also, the sound system has really poor separation and muddy bass. I know some might disagree with this, but even with less HP (and for about $2,100 less in price), I really prefer the Dodge Stratus for styling, comfort and handling.

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  Nothing Compared - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By retlem - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I just traded my 2003 Nissan Altima to get this one because my payments were too high. This car feels like Im driving a boat. I miss the custom leather interior in the Altima and the very stylish ride. Also the gas in this car goes down twice as fast than the Altima.

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  Worst car ever - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Driver1 - June 17 - 7:43 pm

  This is a terrible car. The looks are beautiful, but looks can be deceiving. Several rattles throughout car and horrible wind noise through windows. The back panel vibrates when the back speakers are on and it sounds like blown speakers. I drive about 1000 miles per month (95% highway) and the best I can do at a constant 60 to 65 mph is 22 mpg. Had the car in for warranty problems twice now and Ive only had it for 5 days. In that 5 days, have put 1400 miles on it and have decided to trade it off on a Nissan or Toyota. Have had a new GM car every 2 yrs and have watched GMs quality consistently decline. Its time for change. GM is history.

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  lots of problems - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By basebooboo - April 2 - 2:00 am

  My 2000 Chevy Impala LS has had nothing but problems . Engine cradle , stearing shaft bearing, brake rotors, side impact airbag.It all started at around 25000 miles. I have taken this car back to the dealer 9 times and it is still not performing the way it should. When riding on a road that is not quite perfect the front end feels loose and makes a slight popping noise. I thank myself for not buying this car because at the end of this lease I can walk away from a car that otherwise I would be stuck in. I dont have anything good to say about this car....

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  Drive on city roads and highway before you buy - 2016 Chevrolet Impala
  By john dipietro - February 24 - 1:36 am

  Got this as a rental thinking I was getting a good car. First thing is I hit my head getting in (I am only 5,8) visibility is poor being blocked by the rear view mirror on the front, head rest on the side and a very narrow rear window. It lacks power, the engine sounds like it is constantly struggling under the slightest attempt to accelerate, the transmission is constantly downshifting and up-shifting. It feels like it gets stuck between gears before finally completing the shift. I only drive in manual now. Throttle response is slow. Minor things: the center console cover is difficult to open, the drink holders are too small, back up camera picture is fuzzy, the electronic manual shifter is located on top of the gear shift so if you happen to rest your hand on it the car will inadvertently change gears. Positives: the seat is comfortable and I like the way it handles on back roads. I would not buy this car.

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  Junk - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Impala Hater - December 23 - 2:00 am

  Weve had our Impala for 41,000 miles and I wish I had seen this site and others earlier. Our Impala already has had the AC Pump replaced and just recently the damn ignition cylinder locked on us!!!! There is no way that an ignition cylinder should go bad... ever... unless someone tried to break inot the car. GM needs to have a better warranty plan to cover parts and labor on items that really shouldnt break down. If something else happens to us, I think Ill take the advise of one of the angry people here and look up the Ohio Lemon Laws. Bottom line...if you get a Chevy, GET THE EXTENDED WARRANTY!!! Or better yet, get a Toyota or Honda!

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  End of the line! - 2014 Chevrolet Impala
  By Ed Purmann - August 10 - 2:48 pm

  This is my third Impala in a row, 2000, 2007 and this 2014 and Ive liked each one a bit less so this will be my last. Love the styling, interior comfort and drivability but the car was recalled twice the first year although they were minor repairs, but the fuel line ruptured within the first six months, and a wheel bearing went at less then 50,000 miles. Its not very good in snow with a lot of wheel spinning on very slight inclines and am now getting a hum from the rear that is pretty annoying. Just doesnt seem as well built as the other two.

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  So Far, Not So Good - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By lpta2000 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Purchased car end of Jan., car in shop within 24 hrs b/c car wont start. Told nothing wrong, 2 days later same occurred, twice. In the garage since. A high volt code is causing electrical spike with anti- theft system, not allowing car to start. Data recoding sensor on car, & console went out/device shorted out. 2 weeks since purchase, GM/dealership unable to fix or replace vehicle. In rental 1+ wk. & have 1st pymt. due <2 wks. on car driven <3 days! Very diappointed! Hope just a lemon for me! In period of time in car, it performed well, driver friendly & good gas mileage. Plenty of leg room, trunk space & style.

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  loan only not for keeps - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By chema - April 28 - 4:16 pm

  well i decided to test the car at dealer had a very good deal and the fact that i needed to loan to rebuilt my credit. what i like is the car is remote start great for winnter its fast and smooth ride ===== for long trips but seats are not comfortable enough. GAS! in city is poor im guessing 17mpg ? i just drove 125 miles and its already half tank yeah thats cause its a big engine with large trunk so i havent hit the high way much my saab with turbo 200 miles to half a tank in city or high way anyways i do like a car with lots of interior room trunk is large enough for luggages or groceries some like it for subwoofers radio not the best it has pioneer speakers? cant find that info anywhere...moving on you cant customize almost anything billet grills,headlights,tail lights,instrument cluster,rims. i do recommend the car to anyone