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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  Great car for the price - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By bethlrn - October 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is value for money. It is roomy, comfortable, quiet, smooth and has plenty of zip. The sound system, heater and a/c are all first rate. And it was less than 20k!

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  My 2nd Impala SS - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By John - October 4 - 6:40 pm

  Just purchased an 06 SS Impala Blk on Blk. Its maiden trip was to upstate New Hampshire from Western Mass 5hrs each way. Previously owned a 96 SS. The power is outstanding but the front drive limits the ability to take advantage of the power. The plastic on the doors and dash is similar to my fiances 01 Cavalier, in a word, its cheep. Suspension is more like a Buick than my last SS. I did not feel comfortable on VTs RT 91 above 85mph due to curves. Heated leather seats are adequate, could use a bit more bolstering, but they are fine for me. Get the Bose stereo, I didnt and I regret it. No way the engine gets 28/18 hwy/city mileage, more like 22/13.

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  A great car! - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jukebox Ed - September 28 - 6:40 pm

  My wife and I both drive Impalas and the LTZ is our 7th Impala since 2000. By far, this LTZ is superior to all the others. Power, styling, comfort, Bose sound system (fantasic); overall a great car. Gas mileage, however, is a disappointing 22-23 mph no matter how it is driven. Although it has 233 hp, would expect better mileage. This car is loaded with every option, including the fire engine red tintcoat paint. The car turns heads; hopefully not the State troopers (LOL). Have 8600+ miles on it since April 25 with no problems whatsoever.

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  catchy title - 2016 Chevrolet Impala
  By John Goring - September 15 - 3:22 am

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  Best Chevrolet Ive owned. - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dale B. Larson - September 12 - 11:00 am

  This car is what Detroit should have been making for the last several years. It is comfortable to drive, quiet from road noise, and extremely fast. It is a pleasure to drive on the highways and has more than enough power to please. Chevrolet has a winner in the 2006 Impala SS.

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Red Tom - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Purchased 2003 LS to replace my wifes 98 Gran Prix. Wanted to replicate the 3.8 V6, traction control, and ABS of the GP in a different package. The Impala LS has become a favorite; it is quieter and handles corners and road irregularities better than the GP (both with 16" alloys). The driveline and brakes are excellent, and the aluminum front cross member and dash frame are apparent in body stiffnes and solid feel. Overall, a lot more fun to drive than I imagined.

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  The perfect car - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By STEVE - September 11 - 12:03 am

  I bought this car in a hurry, my Nissan pick up quit. I liked the styling and after test driving, found the Impala to be a blast. I bought the base LS. No anti lock brakes or fold down seat. I knew that going in. Buyers need to beware of what they buy. I love this car and if it holds up as well as my Lumina did, Ill be tickled. The 3.5 v- 6 does a good job and being able to burn E-85 is good and gas mileage penalty is not too bad.

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  LTZ review - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By David Watson - September 10 - 3:23 am

  I like everything pretty much. Ride is a little mushy. XM radio is a bust. It is not commerical free and there is a lot of blank spots.

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  Nice for the Price - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jim Flesher - September 5 - 2:40 am

  As an owner, I am pleased at the handling this car has to offer. If I were to go on what this site said the car had to offer, I wouldnt have purchased this car. I am well pleased with the countless features that are available at this base level. My wife and I enjoy XM satellite, anti lock brakes, rear spoiler, OnStar, nice aluminum wheels, power seat, remote start, not to mention the interior room. The car has enough zip with the V6, that I would not have considered a V8 for the price difference. This car is driven about 80 miles a day and is quite comfortable. As for negatives, I would like to have seen larger mirrors for better visibility and, the styling is boring, not like the old ones

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  Impala! - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Crunch61 - September 3 - 10:00 am

  I guess I would have to say that I love this car. The Impala rides like a dream (although the suspension is a bit on the soft side - more luxury than sport which is ok by me), and its QUIET! (inside AND out). Its nice to be able to roll up the windows and not hear the traffic! I have the seat-package upgrade which includes the interior trim mod and the grip handles... Much more comfortable than the standard seats. I had five adults in the car and all were comfortable. Performance is good with the standard 3.4L engine though I wish I had opted for the 3.8L. Still, I dont have any trouble getting in and out of traffic. My overall rating is VERY GOOD!