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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  2000 Impala LS - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By Walter - September 1 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but problems from day one.First probems with keyless entry, receiver replaced, two computers replaced ,the dealer called GM, they told them it was the circiut board behind the instrument panel, problem solved. Next creeking noise when turning sharply to left and right. Dealer replaced steering rack, not the probem.Called GM, They told the dealer it was flex in the engine cradle. Not enough room for the rest of the problems.

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  Its fun! - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By lambinator - August 27 - 3:30 pm

  I have had my SS for about a month now. I traded in my 04 Subaru WRX with many mods. It was tough to get use to at first but the power that the SS has along with the comfort of the ride is taking care of all that. I plan on doing some things to make my family sedan a real speedster. Overall, its comfortable to drive, its got lots of power and speed when you need it. The torque steer is something to get used to. You can also gain a little speed by taking the traction control off. I am happy with it and growing happier. I almost bought the G8 but I like the build of the Impalas. Go get it, you wont be disappointed.

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  Do I Keep it? - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
  By adad42 - August 21 - 2:00 am

  Less than 10 days to lease end, and Im still thinking about buying my base Impala Sedan. No abs, but sporty 16 inch wheels in dark green make the car a looker. I can feel the ride loosening, and the tranny slipping, so I may be unloading at the right time. I did not know the engine cradle was a problem. Anyway, after 37k miles of NY metro driving, I have not replaced the tires, or brakes, just oil & the driver power window switch.

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  2006 Impala SS - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By SVB - August 20 - 5:26 pm

  Just got my Impala SS 5days ago and have been driving it constantly...Im on vacation. I find the power unbelievable, love the exterior and interior, and am loving driving it. It has been fun learning how to work and program all the toys that are standard as well as all the optional equipment I got with the car. I love the car and would recommend it to anyone interrested in purchasing a full size performance sedan.

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  Why bother looking at anything else?? - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Candle_Guy - August 18 - 2:00 am

  I almost didnt look at an Impala. But on the recommendation of my brother-in-laws brother I checked out the Impala. I went to the dealership to see what "Uncle Jack" was raving about for a test ride and fell in love the the car. Quiet ride, quick acceleration, large trunk, simply everything about the car. The Sutliff Chevrolet salesperson didnt have the exact car that I wanted, but he found one for me. LS trimline (have to have the spoiler), Berry Red Metallic paint, sunroof, and the equipment package so I had all the bells and whistles I would ever want. This is my Mercedes for only $20,000. It just has a bowtie on the front.

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  great car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By MONROE - August 18 - 2:00 am

  only have 400 miles on it cant wait to put more miles on it great car fun to drive feel very safe in it very happy.

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  Love this car as I did my 1969 Impala - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Chris - August 15 - 3:56 pm

  After reading reviews on this car, I decided to purchase a used Impala LT with a 3.9L engine in March, 2007. This Impala is everything I want in a larger car. On a 200 mile round trip to upstate New Jersey I got 30.6 mile per gallon. Combined city and trip driving I get 26 miles per gallon. City only driving I get about 24 MPG. Of course when I run the air conditioner the MPG is lower, but not significantly. My wifes Honda Accord gets about the same MPG, and it is a four cylinder. When driving long distances, comfort is important to me because I have a bad back. The Impala is the most comfortable car I have ever driven, and my back never bothers me after driving this car.

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  Test Drove them all , Impala won! - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By sammy(alias mario) - August 13 - 2:00 am

  When I when to buy my next car I researched the internet extensively and test drove just about all the cometitors (Accord, Camry,Passat, Intrigue, Altima, Avalon, Sable, Intrepid). The Impala won my wife and my votes for comfort , power, handling , features and room to spare. Plus it has 87% U.S./Canadian parts content. Not to mention 5 star frontal and 4 star side impact ratings.

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  love my chevy - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By marlene spencer - August 12 - 2:00 am

  i just got my chevy impala,i really like the way it drives,and handles,i love the stereo system,the interior,the gas mileage etc.its white,the body style is beautiful. thanks for coming out with a really nice roomy sedan,im really pleased and evidently alot of others are to by the looks of the ones you see on the highway!! thanks again!Marlene

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  Nothing but Great - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By John new york - August 12 - 2:00 am

  We bought this car with everything but the sunroof. It handles great, drives smooth, and is all around the best car Ive owned. Time will tell going forward on how it lasts. Love the design its the best of both worlds, luxury and sport. Paid 25,100 with everything but the sunroof. Super deal.Dont let the dealers give you the invoice price. Mine went 800 below invoice. Dont know.