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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  2006 LTZ - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Edwards - August 17 - 1:23 am

  Just purchased the new Impala, every mile that we drive it we like it more. Lots of standard features on this car. The only thing missing is programable seat adjustments. Great ride and comfort and excellent Bose sound system.

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  50th Anniversary - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Sandman - August 16 - 7:33 pm

  I got rid of my expensive to repair VW GTI and bought the 50th anniversary model for 08. I love this car as it is a real hwy crusier unlike the GTI. I realy like the idea of OnStar for emergencies and road service. XM radio I dont think I will continue at the price they want. I thought there were not going to be any commericals, but there are many. Mileage so far has been only 23 mpg, but it still needs to be broken in more. I would really like a conv. Impala or at least a red interior like I had in my first 1959 Impala hardtop.

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  My Grandpas Chevy - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By john c - August 9 - 3:40 pm

  Auto doorlocks pinch your arm if you forget to move. The Impala is far superior to Chevys of the past. Great comfort and a thrill to drive. This aint your Grandpas chevy.

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  impala ss - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By CAMERON - August 7 - 2:00 am

  it is one of the best cars ever made im looking to buy more to love it

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  Good to Go!!!!!! - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By paul krupp - August 5 - 2:00 am

  with only 2000 miles I am already very pleased at my choice. The ride is very nice with the 16" eagles. and the series 2 3.8 litre really scoots. seating front and back is very nice with excellent lumbar support w/o being to stiff. I have the sport appearance package several people have commented on the tastefully done inlaid impala logo in the door panels as well as the exterior back light treatment. My car is silver, the Paint is flawless, the fit and finish is very good with uniform gaps front to back and side to side. Door closing effort is uniform and solid. I chose this car over a chrysler.

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  Impala - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By Meredith Evans - August 2 - 2:00 am

  Only complaint is poor heating system for side passenger and rear seat passengers. Poor circulation system. sHOULD HAVE REAR SEAT VENTS

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  2002, 2004 Impala LSs, husband, wife cars - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dale Riggenbach - July 31 - 12:30 am

  Dreadful Edmonds? How untrue, I traded my wifes 2004 for a 2010 Ford Taurus SEL, what a Mistake!!!!!-lasted 10 months traded it. No driver legroom, blind spots, Too Big console, bad ergonomics!!! As for the Impalas, 2004 only normal maintenance: Oil changes, tranny fluid at 55K, tires, traded it at 65K miles. 2002 Impala, oil changes, tranny fluid x 2, lubed intermediate shaft-steering, computer for car, tune ups, tires sold at 138k for neighbors daughter. I found with regular maintenance, normal driving these cars last a long time. Solid car with an excellent engine, 3800, good ride, quiet depending on tires, solid performer, and very good on gas. Gas mileage, 18-20 city, 28-30 highway. Traded the lousy Ford for a 2011Buick Lucerne CXL, replaced 2002 with a 2014 Chevy Impala. I normally dont comment on forums, but looking for my daughter a car found a 2000 Impala LS, checked Edmunds for their review, and had to say something. In conclusion, I certainly dont agree with Edmonds on this one!!!

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  Thoroughly Satisfied with This Car - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By RichardT - July 30 - 2:00 am

  I bought the Sedan model(bench front seat) with the options package(3.8 V6, antilock brakes, etc) which basically makes it the LS without the trim. I can only say that Chevrolet REALLY got it right with this car. It is very comfortable on long trips, easy to handle, rides very smoothly/solid grip on the road, and VERY good mileage I average 26+ mpg in town and on a recent road trip to Toronto (1050 miles) averaged 31+ mpg - at an average speed of 75 mph. To me, the Impala has all the advantages of a full-size car, yet very economical to own. Aside from the small glove compartment and placement of the cruise control, I am totally satisfied.

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  Forget Toyota, Nissan, Honda this is it - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Semyon - July 27 - 2:00 am

  This car drives like a dream. I have had 0 complaints about it. bought it for 11,500 with 32k on it and it drives beautifully. brakes are a little stiff but i think the pads need to be replaced and the rotors resurfaced, thats about it. this isnt even the ls or ss and it accelerates like a sports car. the interior is spacious and i can look at the exterior of this car for hours and still not get bored. very reliable car as all impalas are. not to mention the fact that this car costs less than a camry, maxima, altima and accord with more room and a better engine. save ur money and buy gm.

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  Bad 2 the Bone car! - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By rubbutter - July 27 - 2:00 am

  This is wonderful car. Great car to get in and out of! Great stereo, seats are comfortable. I feel safe in this car. I get more head turns in this car then my grand prix gt2.