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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  Comfort, value, fuel economy - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By kn15238 - September 26 - 2:00 am

  Impala lives up to its heritage of being a good value, family sedan. The fuel economy is excellent for this size vehicle 21/32. Price wise, I paid over $1,000 less for my Impala V-6 than I could have gotten for a 4 cylinder Accord or 4 cylinder Camry. Test drove all three and Impala by far had the most comfortable ride. So far Im very satisfied.

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  Edmunds Editors Dont Know - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By JimS - September 24 - 10:00 am

  My fiancee and I have truly enjoyed this car over the past year. It currently has about 71K miles on it (we bought it last year with 63K+ miles). The car handles well for a full size car. The engine is responsive and the interior is very well done. We like it so much that we are about to get another one, replacing a 1992 Cavalier.

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  High Praise - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By satisfied consumer - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I had bought this as a used program car with 10,000 miles approx. The car has since given me no trouble! The performance, handling and design of the car are top notch. If I could by a new one, Id do it now, but my next is either an SUV or another Impala. The car is a base model with few perks, but that is less to go wrong....increasing the reliability. This car is well worth the money and the made in America fact is a plus! Thanks Chevrolet

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  The Last of RWD Big Cars - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By BigDogg Dad - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I was lucky to find this car. Low miles 75,000. No rust, all orginal. There is no other ride like a big solid RWD car. I know my wife and kid are safe. Better gas mileage that her minivan on the road. More comfort, hauls our boat like a dream.

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  Great deal - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By jkp1187 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Handling superb -- compares favorably to the 2003 Nissan Maxima. 280 ft-lbs torque really gets your attention. Little body roll for a car this big. Very tight suspension and seventeen inch wheels make it very sporty. Reliability should be good (at least, compared to domestic or European automobiles,) as the 3.8L engine has been around since the late 80s. Complaint: Chevy doesnt know how to design an plush interior. Buick leather is much nicer, the interior just has too much plastic, and bucket seats need a little more lateral support.The XM Satellite Radio, however, was a nice touch.

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  A very high quality, high value used car - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By robs6wagon - September 17 - 4:06 am

  I just recently purchased a 2006 black SS with every GM option, including the gorgeous black leather seats, XM, 6 disc, Bose, sunroof, etc. The driving experience is nothing short of exhilarating! The ride is very comfortable and smooth, especially for a sport suspension. The lines are beautifully sculpted on this car, both inside and out! The sound of the ultra smooth V8 coming out of those polished exhaust tips is better than many classic hot rods! I am looking forward to many miles of thoroughly enjoyable driving. If you are looking for the ultimate drivers package in a mid/large size sedan, the Impala SS is your car!

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  Big, Sweet Ride - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By John - September 13 - 5:40 pm

  All the features I wanted and nothing more. Cruises great at 70. But if you want the supercharger it will let you know its there. I drive a lot during any given day and dont feel drained getting home as before. Ergonomics are fine. Dont pay attention to the pinhead critics that dont like the layout of the cup holders and derate the entire vehicle. Not impling there are things I wouldnt change or like changed (full display with XM, and location of parking brake) with the interior, but for the money Im not complaining. Love the body style, small in front and big in back.

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  100% Satisfaction Guarenteed - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Joe paul - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased my 2003 Chevy Impala and I couldnt be more happier. The quality in terms of driving and design are second to none. I most appreciate the potential to add on in terms of upgrades to the vehicle. I purchased the super-sport edition and am satisfied.

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  Impala needs - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Imp02mar - September 11 - 10:00 am

  The car sets to high in the back and visibility is limited due to window slope and size. There is a lot of road noise from the tires on most road surfaces but side noise seems to be low. Gas mileage is a little lower then I expected (by 2 or 3 MPG). The suspension is also to stiff for a full size seden.

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  Bad to the Bone - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By fisclf - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Impala SS new and it has been my daily driver. Now has 83K miles and I have never had any significant problem with it. The 5.7 liter engine makes lots of torque. It has huge 255/50R17 tires, but you can gently goose it and shred those 200 dollar g-force tires anytime you are in the mood. Or, touch the accelerator gently and let the low rumble from your exhaust shake up the Toyota in the next lane. Handles and stops well for a 4200 pound car. An excellent highway cruiser, stable yet responsive. Very practical, with lots of interior room, a large trunk and normal insurance rates. I consistently get 20 MPG with regular gas.