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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  going to work is fun again - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By freewayracer - March 8 - 2:00 am

  overall good solid car surprises alot of the "GO FAST CARS" in the twistys or the freeways .50k+miles caris still quite in side at all speeds comfortable drove from So.Cal to Tahoe 5hrs.still felt fresh on arrival. To date only routine maint.filters,oil,etc.and 1 set of tires my fault cant seem to slow down although the brakes are great with good feedback and modulation.Looking towards increasing the fun with an SS.

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  LOVE MY CAR - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By LEE ANN - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR. I HAD MY FIRST WRECK IN THIS CAR, NO ONE HURT. MY CAR DIDNT LOOK THAT BAD, BUT HER CAR WAS REALLY SMASHED. THAT LET ME KNOW HOW WELL BUILT MY CAR IS. I HAVE CHILDREN IN MY CAR EVERYDAY, AND IT HELPS TO KNOW THAT IT IS A SAFE CAR.

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  Nice to Drive but with annoying problems - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Peter Baranello - March 4 - 4:26 am

  I have got to admit that the LT/3.9 are easy to drive, peppy, comfortable. With some wrap around mudguards, a bra, it also looks good. I bought the LT loaded, no leather. But even with all options, it did not have an external amp driven sound system, my 2002 LS does, (not the Bose) great sound. This 06 standard system with 6 speakers is sub par. A few annoying trends: Chevy said an engine relay became noisy after a long/hard drive, no fixÂ…. Engine idle is slightly erratic at times, no code? The RF system for the tire monitor, remote start, key fob replaced under war. Like I said, annoying problems but overall I like the car. PS. dont go 7000 miles on the oil or 100000 on trans as they say!

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  2003 Chevrolet Impala LS sport - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Rick Watts - March 4 - 2:00 am

  The Impala is a great car that is fun to drive. I have the sport model which adds a few features to the car that makes it ( in my opinion) complete.

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  The REAL Impalla SS - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By george bowles - February 29 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent automobile. I will be glad when GM brings back more rear wheel drive cars. The SS provides sports car performance and handling with 4 door sedan room and comfort.

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  Competent But Bouncy - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Albie12 - February 28 - 10:00 am

  This is a solid car in every respect, with the exception of its ride. Although comfortable and responsive on a short ride, the bumps and bounces take their toll over the long haul. Ive found that I must be very mindful upon entering driveways, as the vehicle tends to frequently bottom out. For its engine size, the car garnishes commendable fuel economy (30 mpg)on the highway. The vehicle handles very well and the brakes are true and responsive. One feels safe inside of the vehicle and the seats feel nice. Theres also plenty of seating room for three six-foot adults in the back. The trunk is cavernous and my family loves the safety features.

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  Happy Customer since Sept. 2004 - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By S R - February 27 - 2:26 am

  Im very impressed with the car. You cant find a better deal for your money. Fully loaded car with all you need. The only thing I miss is that it doesnt have a 5 CD changer. Other than just having a single CD changer (you can only listen to one at a time anyway). I give it a great rating compared to the 740i BMW I traded. Sure is a lot cheaper to operate!

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  Buyer Beware - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By silverlemon - February 26 - 2:00 am

  Loved the style and comfort. Had Tranny problems and seals blew at 26,000 miles constant problems with electrical (windows, blower motor, wiper arms) Manifold gasket leaks- finally traded in at 45,000 for a Ford Explorer-No more GM for me!

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  Car for the whole family - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By zonadogg - February 23 - 9:16 pm

  After driving other GM SUV models, making the shift to a car was a bit strange. The Impala SS changed that; great truck room, roomy interior, and oh by the way, it has a few ponies under the hood for daddy. Only bad thing; one color doesnt always fits all. Just take this baby on the open highway and let your foot get a little heavy. This car brings back the fun in driving without making you broke!

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  So far, so good - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Von NICKLEBERRY - February 22 - 11:03 pm

  Handles good, nice sounds, OnStar, gas mileage, looks smaller than what it is, trunk space sunroof, tire size. Smoothness!