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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  Run, run, run....away from buying this car. - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Debi - October 22 - 12:25 pm

  Our 2008 Impala has less than 80,000 miles on it, for a seven year old car that is low mileage........right now its undergoing almost $3,000 of repairs. Our mechanic said that hes never seen a vehicle with so few miles have such problems. And of course, one of the problems seems to be another infamous GM defect........an anti-freeze leak. I Googled it and there are A LOT of complaints about that problem. Also has severe paint "crazing" on the black trim/paint by the windows. Started very shortly after purchase. I complained to GM, was told that "its not a safety issue" so basically they were saying "tough &%*$". Wont EVER buy another GM.

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  be forewarned - 2010 Chevrolet Impala
  By d. umba - October 21 - 6:01 am

  I only have 41,000 miles on my 2010 chevy impala. Never had a car with so many problems...display says engine losing power....also warning about stabil something or other...car has loud ticking noise coming from front passenger side when opening or closing doors also when starting car or turning off ignition.

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  Impressive Impala - 2014 Chevrolet Impala
  By MJB - October 16 - 6:00 pm

  Engine and Power: The 3.6L V-6. Does the 1/4 mile in times equaling early Muscle Cars. Well worth the price to upgrade here. The car has surprising acceleration. You will have to be careful when pressing too firmly, as the car will go now. Handling: Changing lanes is quick and effortless. Passing is smooth and the car downshifts quickly and results in a pleasant rumble from the V-6. The Firestone Firehawk Wide Oval GTs do not like to hookup in the wet or snow. Had a flat on one front tire and opted to replace the front 2 tires with Firestone Firehawk Wide Oval All Seasons provided much better traction. Appointments LTZ has all the bells and whistles, however the cost for the options, in my opinion make stepping up, extremely expensive. 2LT is very nicely appointed. Peculiar that you can still get the 4 cyl engine if you get the 1LTZ. Front seats are supportive with great adjustability with the electronic controls on the left side of the seat. Exceptional roominess in the back seats. Some cars will seat 4, this cars will seat 4 taller adults without cramping anyone. In fact, this seats 5 in the way that a Ford Fusion seats 4. Instrumentation: Dash pad cover is aesthetically pleasing, very similar to the Buick Lacrosse. Instrumentation is very complete, with the ability to pick and choose what you want displayed. Steering wheel controls allow you to make calls via Bluetooth, change radio stations, adjust the volume of the radio, and use the cruise control. A very firm feeling car that has excellent power, massive amounts of cabin space, good handling, comfortable and quite ride. If you didnt know you were in a Chevy, you would think you were in a luxury import. Mileage is very good. Combined 27.8 MPG during the 38,000 miles that I have had it. Strait highway mileage is around 33.5 for me at 65-70 mpg, speeds over that mileage drops off. Rolls very smoothly when going downhill.

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  Lots of issues! - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Keith - October 15 - 7:56 am

  Transmission sucks! Oil consumption! Horrible handling in rain and snow! Lots of vibration and road noise! Clunking in front end! Eats brakes! Very disappointed with this vehicle!

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  Love my 2007 impala - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By impala - October 14 - 12:50 am

  Bought my 07 impala last year in 2014 with 99,000 now im at 150,000 gotta say its great still shifting smooth engine runs great the LT model in which I have will not last long with aggressive driving. Drives nicely change your fluids frequently and this car will run for a long time!

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  Love my car impala 2014 ltz/ 2lz - 2014 Chevrolet Impala
  By n/a - October 12 - 5:41 am

  I have 8 months with my 2014 Impala LTZ / 2LZm super happy though with 3 children and they will all use carseat very comfortable this car is the best Ive had is very comfortable and very economical on gas and what I like This style is beautiful!

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  Long term rental - 2015 Chevrolet Impala
  By David Norris - October 6 - 3:49 am

  I was on an assignment so I got an impala for a long term rental. I drove it to and from work, to and from my home, and around town. I generally like it. However, my biggest peeve is the noise. I was convinced that the rear window was open because of all the road noise I could hear in my left ear. But, no, that is just its lack of sound deadening material. In every other aspect this is a nice car. But, it is just too noisy. Trunk is quite large. It is a large car.

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  From focus to impala - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Maranda - October 4 - 9:22 pm

  Has some issues with ac/heater some with airbag sensors but WOW i am in love with this Impala! Such a wise choice from a 03 ford focus to a 07 impala ls flex fuel.

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  Quite Possibly the best car of 2013 - 2013 Chevrolet Impala
  By *likesthatcar* - October 4 - 7:21 am

  Lets be honest this car rocks! Comfort and fuel economy are HUGE pluses in this car. The 3.6 is a peppy and growling engine with great reliability. Entertainment is okay but no screen (doesnt matter!). Sound Quality is SUPER GOOD and what I mean is the clarity and bass (and its not even the Bose). I like it. Its the best of both worlds The sunroof is cool, Bluetooth speakerphone is good, Sound Quality, etc. A sporty yet comfortable package!

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  Good Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Lanita - October 3 - 9:54 pm

  I have a 2004 Chevy Impala LS performance is great, but a few problems so far. Bought at 109,000 miles but when it rains outside it somehow creates a small puddle in the front passenger side floor. Also hesitates to start after i get gas, and trembles sometimes when i start it. But i still love it strong and powerful engine, and usually gets me where i need to go.