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 Money - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Tony - October 1 - 9:05 pm

  This car is a great value. 300 Hp and styling that will not get the attention of local law enforcement. I have been very pleased with this vehicle. It is true that the car has torque steer, but I have found that you get used to it very quickly. When I was looking for a vehicle I needed 5 things, under 20k, front wheel drive, auto, 4 doors and 300+ hp. There is no other vehicle that can match thoese requirements.

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  Excellent redesign! - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dave in Biloxi, MS - October 1 - 7:20 pm

  Was very satsified with my 03 Impala LS; lost it to Hurricane Katrina. Was all ready to buy an 06 Hyundai Sonata after test drive and research, but sound system not XM or iPod-ready without major modification yet (XM allegedly ready in Sonata during cal yr 06). Researched new-design 06 Impala as Plan B and decided that upgraded sound system and other LTZ features were worth considering. Have put 200+ miles on my new Impala since taking delivery yesterday and Im impressed. Choppy low-end gear shifting after first driving off lot (8 mi on odo) cleared up after a few miles break- in. Clean interior and exterior new designs are impressive. Highway cruising is smooth. Love the alloy-trim dash.

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  Love this car - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jacque - September 29 - 1:22 pm

  I fell in love with the looks of this vehicle and the chrome on the rearend is very beautiful which drew me to the car. I had not owned an Impala before but I am completely a Chevy girl. I come from a racing family and this car has not let me down. 0-60 in, well have not timed it, but I am happy. I can get the power when I need it and have not had any problems at all with the car. Would I buy it again, oh you bet I would! OnStar is wonderful and I am hooked on XM. Very happy with my purchase.

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  Great ride - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By great ride - September 24 - 12:04 am

  I get more pleasure driving this car then my 2008 STS Caddy. Still a head turner. Seats are realy comfortable and everything is heavy duty.

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  Love My Impala - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By springtulip108 - September 22 - 1:31 pm

  We bought this car used with 32,000 miles and now I have over 122,000. Never had any problems except with rotors. Love this car. We are starting to look for something with less miles but wish I could buy this car over again (dont like the design of the new Impalas).

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  Love of my life - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Rowen D. - September 21 - 1:13 am

  Bought with 48000 on it, has been a dream ever since. I was in a serious head on collision, 79.4% damaged. Neither I nor my passengers were injured but my insurance on the other hand was in the ICU. I had the car repaired simply because I love it too much. Couldnt be happier.

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  Absolutely Unbeleiveable! - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By rb2 - September 20 - 5:59 pm

  This was the 2nd vehicle I have picked out myself. I covered the Southeast since 76 and have extensively driven over 24 different cars of which 18 were brand new, Ive never had one from any car co that can even approach the level my expectations were surpassed by this one! Everything works! Had to replace the carrying ability of my prior Taurus SW, I learned from a rental just how cavernous this monster trunk is. It held all my parts, tool and test equipment with much room to spare. My first road trip over 100 miles rated 32.5 mpg and rising. Wife slept 250 mi in quiet comfort from KY.

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  SS review - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By wcslivik - September 19 - 6:02 pm

  Love the performance. It will beat just about any car on the road. Extermely nice to get in and out of traffic. I get so many comments about the ride. I am averaging 21 mpg, but I ramp on it a bit too. Im sure I could sqeeze 23 mpg average if I drive concervative. I love the mufflers, they arnt exactly flowmaster, but arent the stock Silverodo mufflers where you cant hear anything. Its perfect. The stereo is amazing. The only problem Ive had with it is the AC outlets lost power, but other than that its an amazing car.

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  Love my Impala! - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By GirlyGurlCarlover - September 14 - 1:35 pm

  I bought this car because of the high safety ratings. It proves to be a well built and reliable car. It has a nice exterior design, classy look, without being too trendy. The interior is very nice. I love the dash with the woodgrain interior. This car offers lots of room inside and has ample trunk space. The V6 engine makes this car a joy to drive. I love the alloy wheels and the design of the car. The bold look of the car is very sophisticated. I went into a store and bought a six foot long plant, to my suprised this fit in the inside of the car. I didnt need to use the trunk. Good gas mileage, smooth ride, nice design and reliable. Who could ask for more? Now I want the 2010!

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  Best car I have owned - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By wayne heidt - September 4 - 2:06 pm

  I had a Monte Carlo (2003), and it was great. But the Impala is a far better vehicle for ride, and the supercharged engine has the power to pass when you want to