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:

• 

  American Pride - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Gary - December 31 - 2:49 pm

  Bought this 08 SS from a dealer, it was a demo model with 588 miles on it. Got a great deal on it. The car is excellent, fully loaded, extreme amounts of power, smooth, and handles good for a large car. I can easily get 29-30mpg on a smooth flat highway going 70. The car is built well and very solid and surefooted. Great car at a great price.

• 

  Great Car - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By brian - December 28 - 6:18 pm

  Would recommend this car for someone who wants sports car but has family very comfortable good on gas 3.4 performance ok but used to driving a camaro z28. Front end needs some rebuild after 120k but not as expensive as some may say cost about $400. most cars require some rebuild after 100k so dont complain normal wear and tear. Little oil leak just damp under oil pan who ever said 600. to replace is getting ripped off easy to change. Transmission shifts great run awesome getting ready to tune up for 100k tune-up great car dependable.

• 

  Great car - a few suggestions - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Tom Rogers - December 26 - 4:26 pm

  We have enjoyed our Impala. Its 3.9L V6 has great acceleration. We like the fold down back seats and teh large trunk. The Onstar, XM radio, and on- bard phone are all great but too expensive. Initial tires were poor lasting only 60,000kms 37,500miles. No engine problems. In -40 weather there is no heat when idling. Had problem with stick shift stuck in park. Small window behind rear driver side door has molding fall off. Very low bumper on front somtimes catches on curbs and scratches the bumper.

• 

  Chevy Impapa LS - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jerry S. - December 24 - 11:33 am

  I recently purchased a new Chevrolet Impala LS. I wasnt looking for all the bells and whistles, but more for the roominess both interior and trunk. True, this car is a bit generic, but the leather interior is very comfortable, especially with power seats. The interior noise is reasonably quiet except for a minor transaxle whine in 1st and 2nd gear. Coarse roads also bring on some unpleasant resonance. Front spoiler annoyingly seems to hit every driveway. All the interior controls are very legible with a decent sound system. The 3.8 v6 starts and runs flawlessly. with excellent mpg.If your looking for nice comfortable and practical full size transportation, consider the Impala.

• 

  Good Car for the Money - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By CarCrazy - December 23 - 3:37 pm

  We just bought our used 2007 Impala LT w/ the 3.9L (Active Fuel Management system)engine at the end of September 2009. So far weve put on 4K in 2 1/2 months of mixed driving and averaged 23 MPG (which is not bad for such a large car). The Bose sound system is great, as are the large controls and placement of the controls. My only gripe would be the soft touring suspension (I was used to driving a VW Jetta before) and the seats could be more supportive (could also use Memory seating). Otherwise, this a great car for the money and features.

• 

  Last Chevy I Will Ever Buy - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By bernard - December 20 - 2:15 am

  Speedometer went out at 66,000 miles ($379.93). Light went out on climate control, have to replace whole unit ($336.60). Sometimes windshield wipers don`t work at all. Or wont shut off. Service Traction System light comes on occasionally, then does upon restarting. It seems to me that there is some kind of electrical issue with these cars, as many people experience the same problems.

• 

  More good than bad - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Don W - December 18 - 10:45 am

  Ive owned this vehicle for 20 months and 30000 miles. No tire replacement yet, maybe 6000 miles more on them. I love the performance. I owned a Malibu before this Impala. I just feel the Impala is more stable, especially when needing a fast acceleration, or a quick braking. The extra-loud cabin noises (engine Whine and outside wind) are irritating.

• 

  Almost injured our teenager - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By lisa frain - December 18 - 1:31 am

  I liked a lot about our impala we had a few quirks too. The remote start the tire pressure sensors never worked and after a year the power steering lost its fluid was fixed by a GM dealer. but the latest was a accident when my daughter was driving the steering failed and she ended up in a ditch. The car a total loss with my child not receiving any injury, but I find this totally unacceptable from a car with less than 42000 miles. It has been maintained and eats oil. I guess that point is moot, because the car is toast. The common thread I see is there. I am upset and angry and can only think of the what ifs My child could have been killed by this failure, Thank God she walked away.

• 

  SATISFIED - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By cc1111 - December 15 - 2:00 am

  NEVER HAD TO TAKE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER FOR ANY PROBLEMS. IT WAS ALL I EXPECTED AND I AM BUYING ANOUTHER AS MY DAD TOTALED IT IN AN ACCIDENT. HE AND MY KIDS WALKED AWAY.

• 

  Nothing has changed - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By JHB - December 14 - 8:47 am

  I have a 00 with 3.5 liter 240,000 miles on it. Father has 07 with 3.9 liter. These Impalas may have changed body design and engines but still have the same problems. The VERY common probs with these cars are Transmission failure Intake gasket manifold failure (most common) Intermediate steering shaft failure Cars with pass lock have problems consistently. Headlight switches have failures fairly often. Water pump will start leaking between 36k and 55k. Radiators will split at the side tanks around 125k Brake rotors tend to warp prematurely. Tire pressure monitoring system is horribly troublesome. New designs, new engines, same ole problems