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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  Impala--feels like a luxury car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By clinical sw - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I do a lot of driving in my work and this car has the most comfortable ride and roomy interior. My back is well supported and I love the leather upholstery I chose to include in the Impala I bought. The ride is smooth and the steering tight and responsive. I love my Impala.

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  My 3rd Impala - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By crewzn - February 17 - 9:30 am

  This is my 3rd Chevy Impala. I am normally a truck type of girl, but in 2000 my husband took me to see a red Impala LS at 9pm on my birthday! I fell in love with it, bought it next day. I then up graded to a fully loaded LS in 2002 (also red) with sunroof and all extras. In 2005 he talked me into a GMC crew cab tk, that lasted until I drove a 2006 Impala LTZ (white this time...didnt like red that year) bought it in June 06. Absolutely love it. I have taken it on road trips to Portland, OR, several trips to Branson, MO and at least 3 to Wichita, Ks. Car now has 14500 miles and still rides awsome. Note... K&N airfilter helped with my gas mileage and take off quite a bit.

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  Not a Bad buy when theres a good rebate - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Rebate - February 16 - 2:00 am

  Unrefined. Bought for good price. Backseat comfort poor

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  Just as good as the imports - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Brian - February 8 - 4:26 am

  Got my 3.9 Impala in July and have had nothing but rave compliments about the interior. My best friend has a 2006 Camry and tells me every time hes in my ride that I have a better looking interior. I love that next gen 3.9L and think if it isnt the best six out there it ranks in the top five. If they slap in that new 6 speed this would be a perfect drive train matching anything foriegn or domestic.

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  Good Family Car - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Malcom - February 4 - 10:00 am

  No problems so far, good solid car. Larger then the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, plus it comes with a V6 compared to their V4. Big truck, big interior. Fits four adults plus a baby seat with ease. You can put a stroller in the truck and still have room for the groceries. Only gripe, no lights in glove box, under the hood or in the truck.

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  Impala - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Ralph Gilnack - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I am extremly happy with this car . I think it is one of the best produced. Plenty of power ,quite a bit style on the interior as well as the exterior. The heated seats are a big plus and the large trunk is most welcome. The power seat on the passenger side is very helpfull for my wife. The auto dimming rear view mirror is much appreciated as well as the heated outside mirrors. One feature I neglected to get was On Star, the next car will definately have that system. The gas mileage has been in the 29 to 30 mpg on the highway and about 24 in town which is not the best but not too bad. Over all this is a real winner. Very good Dealership!

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  2001 Impala - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By ricfos - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I took delivery of this car on Octber 31, 2000. It was an ordered vehicle with all options but the sunroof (I need the headroom). Over 20,313 miles, over 5,000 of which were on a road trip from the Chicago area to Los Angeles and back, this car has been perfect. I have had NO (zero) problems with this car. It has averaged nearly 30 mpg at mostly interstate speeds, is as comfortable as any Cadillac or Lincoln Ive driven, and is a just very enjoyable to drive. It has most of the creature conveniences youd expect from a car costing $10,000 more. I love it!

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  Did Edmunds test the same car I bought? - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By David Rogers - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I dont understand Edmunds beration of this vehicle. My Impala has been an absolute pleasure to own. We owned a 1990 Linc. Town Car prior to our 2002 Impala and had nothing but trouble with it. NO domestic can rival the Lincs air-ride, but the Impala comes very close. A more sporty ride, the Impala has better handling & does not "float" at speed as the Linc. does. Weve had only one problem, the sealed headlamp module on the drivers side failed & moisture got into the unit. Other than that the car has performed flawlessly. If you are looking for a solid, 6 passenger vehicle, with luxury car ride and feel, at a reasonable price, buy the Impala.

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  2006 Impala Super Sport - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By dennis penberthy - January 22 - 1:13 pm

  The 2006 Impala SS that we bought was the first one in our area. Other Chevy dealers would stop us and ask to check it out because they couldnt get one. This car is not only very powerful but very comfortable to drive and ride in. The rear seat is one of the best to get into and also has one of the most comfortable rides I have ever seen. The fuel mileage is not the greatest but we get about an average of 22.5 mpg during the warm months and 21.6 during the winter. The highest we have gotten was 24.6 mpg. My 2004 Impala SS has a 3.8 Supercharged engine and it averaged 30.4 mpg on a trip to Oklahoma.

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  Happy Impala owners! - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Cjbrooklyn3411 - January 17 - 5:06 pm

  Well, a few members in our family have the Toyota Camry and have been trying to get us also purchase one. However, for almost the same price if not cheaper, the Imapala was the better chose for us. Roomier inside then the Camry and bigger trunk space. Love the feature for the air conditioning. I can set mine seperate from the drivers setting. Also enjoy the features for viewing your tire pressure, odometer and how many miles left before the next gas pruchase. All around this car is superior over any of the Nissan, Toyotas, Kia etc.