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:

• 

  Very Inpressed - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Chris Vlastaris - December 22 - 2:30 pm

  After a long absence from the Impala, my first love in 1963, followed by Buicks & Pontiacs, I came back to it this year. And I am here to stay till the end. She is as pleasant as ever. As big as ever. As warm and safe as ever. I love everything about her. Big. Roomy. Safe. Impressive. Beautiful. And does not drink as much gasoline as others her size. And another plus, she has the lowest insurance cost out of all North American cars, after her big sister, the LT model. Folks, believe me, I should know. I am an Auto Insurance Agent

• 

  Im on my 2nd one, wonderful cars. - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By J. Montague - December 22 - 7:37 am

  I have owned 2 of these cars, I bought a 2005 brand new it had 7 mi on it. It lasted until 2015 when the transmission went out at 215K miles. Now that Im retired and not commuting 60 miles a day I decided to buy another one. I now on a 2004 Base with the sports appearance package that had 72,000 mIles (now 77,820) from the original owners. These cars are very reliable, all I did in the 05 was oil changes, tune ups, fuel filters, pretty much preventative maintenence. The only issue with these cars that I have is the transmissions. Around 75,000 miles it begins to slip gears (not skip) all it needs is the solenoids need replaced. I did it on the 2005 and Im planning on doing it on my current 2004 here soon along with a flush, filter change, and fill. I get excellent mileage I can get 22-25mpg with mixed driving and on the recent 500 mile round trip I took to Milwaukee with 100% highway driving with the cruise on 65 I got 30.4 mpg. The ride is wonderful, my wife has a 2013 Nissan Sentra and I cant stand it, it may get wonderful gas mileage, but the ride is harsh and its very small for my long legs I cant get a good seat adjustment. I assume take the Impala. You can buy these for cheap with around 150K miles for about $2500.00, these are definetly worth the money and are almost bullet proof except for the transmission & lower intake gaskets. If you want a nice reliable car that does decent on gas and is minimal on repairs if maintained, then look for one of these, if they were decently taken care of, you can have a wonderful car for a decent price. Even my 2005 wasnt badly priced when it was brand new (around $21,500)

• 

  I LIKE MY IMPALA! Is that ok with all? - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By DonM - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive thoroughly enjoyed my 2001 Impala LS! Im on the big side 510", 260, and have (unfortunatly) outgrown my Grand Ams. No comparison! Great fit, plenty of zip for my needs, and I ENJOY driveing it. No mech problems, Fuel economy is as expected (slightly below sticker) but on long hauls at 70MPH+ I have often gotten 30+ MPG. Only nit is that compared to a 2 door, visibility is restricted and I had to get use to that. Wish the mirror was a tad smaller or higher. Looking forward to some future upgrades to this model.

• 

  Love My Impala! - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By kysloc - December 15 - 6:43 pm

  After having (and still owning!) 3 1970 musclecars, I endured 14 years of driving minivans due to having kids. When it came time for another daily driver vehicle, I looked VERY HARD for a safe, large family car that had the zip and FUN akin to my old musclecars. I found the Impala. Ok, it does not turn as many heads as my 1970 lime green big block Cuda, but it is alot of fun to drive and always gets great comments from people who ride in it -- especially my Volvo S80 and Saab and Passat owning friends who cant believe how little my Impala cost. I will buy another Impala next year when my oldest kids take this one over.

• 

  A mans Car - 1995 Chevrolet Impala
  By Glenn1782 - December 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive had no problems with my impala, runs beautifully, looks beautiful, best car Ive ever had.

• 

  2000 Impala - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By Kevin M - December 6 - 2:00 am

  Great reliable car.

• 

  Transmission Blow out 42,000 - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By gkehler - December 2 - 2:53 pm

  Great looking car for the money. However, I have had a many problems. Keyless entry never work correct and tire sensor. Was in shop a couple of time until fix right. Body work poor has as sections came unalined. Note: all items were fixed at dealers cost. However, my transmission went at 42,000 (all highway). Chevy would not stand behind the transmission even with me only be 6k over in miles. I will tell you not to buy without the extend warranty or you will get screwed by Chevy(3800 fix). PS put in a transmission cooler. I would upgrade brakes as stock has had many recalls (Cheap fix for add performance $700)

• 

  Everyone "ALWAYS" tests the LS with 3.8 - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By bigrig - December 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car for my wife. I rarely drive it. It has had NO problems what so ever!! It actually has more front leg room and is more comfortable for me than my 01 LT Suburban. Power is very adaquet and handling is good, with absolutely dead center steering on the interstate. What I cant get over is the gas mileage. It just turned 10,000 miles on a recent 2000 mile trip. When the trip computer said 36.5 mpg, I thought it lied (on one segment at 70 to 80 mph). It was actually 35.8! It gets 29/30 every fillup, We also like the "cloth" split power bench--much more comfy than buckets!

• 

  show me something. . .SWEET!! - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Anthony Joseph - November 29 - 10:00 am

  The new Impala base 3.4 commands the road like a champion. No growl like the 3.8 LS, however their is a solid amount of power delivered as smooth as silk to the front wheels. Value, style, performance, and safety.

• 

  a classic in the making - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By chal - November 27 - 2:00 am

  the last of the american rear wheel, full sized cars with performance. i have kept the car dealer maintained and only have 47,000 miles on the car. the only problems with the car were manufacturing glitches which the dealer fixed under warranty. typical chevrolet quality. driven daily with no problems and a pleasure to drive with interior room to spare.