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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  Giddy Up!! - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By DanSSman - January 27 - 2:00 am

  Back in the day when I was down and out I bought the SS to cheer me up and I havent stopped smiling since. With the performance, comfort and overall ride of this vehicle who wouldnt feel like the king of road. I wish I had enough money at the time to buy a 2nd one and keep it in storage. For now driving the car year-round is not a bad alternative

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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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  Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By top gun - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Great features.

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  Family Car with Attitude - 1995 Chevrolet Impala
  By KCP - January 17 - 2:00 am

  The first three years I had my SS, I used it to commute to work in style. After getting a company vehicle, my wife took the car and used for domestic tasks, showing its versatility. The SS has enough spunk with the LT1 engine and maneuverability to get around in rush hour traffice. Its handling makes for a fun drive on a challenging road. Yet it has comfort and room for a family vacation. Its weight gives an added sense of safety and security. The 94 - 96 Impala SS is one of the best cars Chevy has put on the road. Only recurring problem with mine was power window repair and it has its third water pump.

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  10 - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By kejo - January 16 - 2:00 am

  this car is a great blend of chevys performance,comfort and fun to drive heritage

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  Great Combo: Economy, Versatility, Fun - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By chris_t - January 16 - 2:00 am

  I *love* this 03 Impala. Base, but w/ 3.8L engine. This gets more than just extra horses...you get ABS + better suspension. Seats 6 comfortably. Interior is well thought out. I didnt get all the bells & whistles, but did get steering wheel controls (worth it!) and package with display (compass, mpg, etc.) in overhead console + auto- dimming mirror (maybe worth it). With all the rebates & reasonable list price, I paid only slightly more than for my 87 6000! Remote Keyless Entry is standard. The Impala handles well on dry pavement, also ice and snow, even without traction control.

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  great value for your money - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By cr - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Great car with excellent safety ratings.Love the smooth ride.very quiet.looked at many vehicles and this was the best.Brand new so dont really know the acceleration.Nice traveling vehicle with lots of room and big trunk.

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  Love My Chevy! - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By jingle - January 9 - 2:00 am

  Our chevy was a lease which we are buying out. Thats how good we like it. The ride is smooth and little exterior noise. Its really a full- size car and can seat a 6 ft 260 lb man comfortably. We purchased the upgraded sound system and its like having surround in the car. Gas mileage is above average for a full-size car, and our sun roof is heaven in summer time. Only problems were a few loose screws in the beginning - and the dealership was great at service. Theres been no knocking like in your other reviews of this car.

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  US/CANADA QUALITY - SAY NO TO MEXICO - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By MSJ4343 - January 1 - 2:00 am

  THIS CAR SEEMS TO BE A WELL BUILT CAR. NO PROBLEMS AT 18K MILES. 3.8 ENGINE IN MY PONTIAC AT 175K AND STILL GOING STRONG. GM NEEDS TO WATCH QUALITY OF MATERIALS THEY ARE USING - SEEM TO BE ON THE VERGE OF LOWERING THEIR STANDARDS IN SOME AREAS TO THAT OF FORD AND CHRYSLER MY PAST GM VEHICLE INTERIORS HELD UP VERY WELL FOR 10 YEARS NO SUPRISE TO SEE NEGATIVE REVIEWS BY SO CALLED CAR EXPERTS - BACK IN 1983 THEY HAD THE SAME BIASED OPINIONS. AT THAT TIME I WAS DRIVING A COMPANY EXECUTIVE IN MY NEW BUICK SKYHAWK TO PICK UP HIS NEW HIGHLY RATED BMW(BY EXPERTS)AT THE DEALERS SHOP EVERY 3 WEEKS.

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  Steves review - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By steven21 - December 26 - 4:26 pm

  I love the solid feel in corners. Plenty of power from the 5.3L V-8. Excellent handling, quiet and solid ride, and just plain fun to drive. It gets great gas mileage at 27mpg on the highway. Quick and powerful acceleration through all 4 gears and RPM ranges.