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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LMAO at the F.O.R.D. Marauder - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
By yes - June 7 - 2:00 amThe marauder may very well be a good ford product but look forward to spongy brakes and no low end torque. Longevity is a question and well it just doesnt have the looks. I am still laughing all the way to the bank. My SS cost $19.500 the ford will cost about $35.000. My chevy was built by proud American workers who lovingly put this car together. 80.000 miles no problems, 14.00 in the quarter. Cop car suspension means no surprises. A note to FORD this is what happens when John Moss (a brillant automobile designer)really builds a car. Maybe you should hire him. Thank You Mr. Moss!!!
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2000 Chevy Impalal - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
By dmsummer - June 6 - 2:00 amGreat car...no problems...sharp looking
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The SS Impala Floats On - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
By BenS0SS - June 3 - 2:00 amThis car is by far the best full-sized vehicle you can possibly purchase, with the possible exception of the BMW 7 series. It handles extremely well, accelerates like theres no tomrrow, and seats 5 adults without problems.
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highway cruiser - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
By smith - June 2 - 2:00 amThis is our vacationing, interstate cruising, mountain climbing muscle car. When you push on the accelerator, it goes. Reliable super performing vehicle. Funny to watch people in front of you slow down, move out of the way thinking you are a police cruiser. My son has spoken for my car.
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sporty family car - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
By j mcnew - May 31 - 10:00 amthis car has a lotta get up and go!!! i had a malibu and thought it was nice but the impalla is twice as nice and roomy , i added the spoiler and the dvd with tv and my son loed it on our recent road trip, i am very pleased with the impalla and rate it a 9.5 from 1 to 10 not being a 10 because i really wanted the tahoe lol .
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Outstanding - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
By JH Lansing MIch. - May 20 - 11:50 amI couldnt afford to insure a Dodge Charger R/T so I bought the LT2. Simple, clean almost Teutonic looking ebony interior/control layout. It handles well in the serpentine & is a very solidly constructed car, plus trunk is the size of my living room! I appreciate the excellent gas mileage for a large car & the E85 flex fuel capability. I drive a Ford CVPI 8-10 hours a day & the Impla is a real treat after work. I would recommend GM make this car RWD; & next time Ill get the LT3 or LTZ since Id like a few more ponys under the hood. The Impala just may kill the Camry.
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Diablo - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
By Tom Stewart - May 19 - 2:00 amThats the name of my Impala SS, a true American masterpiece. There are minor irritants like the bucket seats could have better support features. But these are buried in the joys of driving this two-ton hot rod! I had 10 guys at the dealership drooling and hoping I wouldnt take the car. Its the most reliable car Ive owned. It still looks red hot and attracts comments. Chevrolet made a terrible trade-off in stopping SS production for what...everyday trucks? On the other hand, it gives we SS owners an appreciable investment while we devour the thrills!
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Great car for the money - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
By mcland1 - May 18 - 2:00 amThere is probably no other car available with the similar load of features in the same price range. Plenty of low end torque helps you be in cotrol, tons of space inside, 5 stars for safety, very economical use of gas, many well thought features, huge trunk, comfortable seats.
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Outstanding vehicle! - 2000 Chevrolet Impala
By FitnessCC - May 17 - 2:00 amI have just passed 40K miles in two years of mixed driving, and have not had a single problem with this car! Even better, it still shines in performance (quick & agile for a big car), ride (smooth yet controlled), gas mileage (21.7 in mixed driving on regular gas), roominess (biggest trunk around + folding seats), looks (as good and fresh as when new), ergonomics (everything placed for easy use), etc. Ive had more expensive cars, but none better!
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Unhappy - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
By Chuck - May 16 - 8:56 amVibration and noise thru-out car plus tire pressure monitor system gives false reading. GM has worked for a year and still has no fix for the Vib/noise problem. I was not aware of the problems plus the dealership did not disclose the problems prior to me accepting/paying for the car.
