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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  No problems - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Greg LeValley - May 4 - 8:19 am

  My wife and I have owned several Chevys in the last 30 years and the 07 Impala is the best. We average 27 mpg and on the highway if we run around 65 mph can easily get 30 mpg. There have been zero quality problems and I believe that this car is the most "bang for the buck". I have been telling family, friends and strangers about this car. Wish I was selling them. Car sells itself.

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  Chevrolet Impala is an exellent car. - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By FJackie21 - May 4 - 2:00 am

  We already have a 2001 Impala and love it. Our daughter took that car and my wife loved the 2001 so much we bought a 2004. It runs and rides great. Its very comfortable and has plenty of power. We havent had any problems out of our 2001. Its been very reliable. The 2004 seems to be on the same track. Great car!

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  A JOY to drive! - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By slonaker - May 3 - 10:00 am

  What an outstandingly well-built car! I have to take issue with the editors comments about "wallowy suspension," and "low-buck interior". Our Impala LS is tight, roomy, comfortable and just flat FUN to drive! Someone here mentioned its not meant for those 5 7" and over. Well, Im 6 3" and this is one of the few vehicles I can actually stretch my legs in. All this AND a 5-star rating for safety?? Why would anyone consider anything else??

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  Impala LTZ2 - 2016 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dave Wakefield - May 2 - 3:48 am

  I have owned 2007 Impala LTZ and before that 2000 Impala. I love the car so I keep getting a newer version. I am a Chevy guy and think its as good as it gets with the Impala LTZ.

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  A very happy owner. - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Douglas M. De Barry - May 1 - 5:48 am

  This is one happy owner. My Impala has 46,000 miles on her at this time, and she has been more dependable than any other vehicle ever owned by me. Average MPG stands at 25.6, which includes Minneapolis/Saint Paul rush hour traffic, and driving in snowy and icy conditions. This car has needed nothing but routine maintenance until the transmission lines needed replacing at 45,000 miles. The car has tons of pep when needed (or just for fun). The 200 hp rating for the motor seems under rated. The leather seat option was the correct way to go, and the seats are now as plush and comfortable as any sofa. Comfortable, fun to drive, nice MPG.

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  Mark of excellence is back - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By FRANK R - April 24 - 9:32 pm

  Great American cruiser, not small but not too big, fit and finish is perfect. Purchased used with 14,000 miles ex rental car and still no rattles leaks. Prefer the previous body style however the quality of this car is impressive.

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  Company car worth owning - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Vetdoc - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I ordered the Chevy Impala as my company car at work. I have always been a fan of GM cars. My Impala is safe, comfortable, big and roomy with great visibility and beautiful. White exterior with grey inside. ABS

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  Love this Car - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By mrc - April 21 - 12:03 am

  The Impala SS is a solid fun to drive car. Fit and trim are excellent. I love the power and DOD as well. I miss my Trans Am but this car is much more comfortable and practical. It sounds great. All the neighbors had to come see it. Compares favorably against the imports...regards

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  Best Car I ever owned - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Cheryl - April 17 - 10:32 am

  Its a fun car to drive. The car maneuvers through heavy traffic very well. The safety of the drive is very reassuring. I once saw an accident that involved an Impala and the cement block truck. The car was hit broad side The driver was standing outside of the car and he was not hurt. The gas mileage is fantastic on the road 30 +. It has been a wonderful ride for 5 years. The only repair I have had to do is replace the brakes.

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  Just try it... - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Liam01 - April 17 - 10:00 am

  dont judge for this car before driving, driving is smooth and powerful, you feel great behind the wheel. i had a nissan altima 2002 and a toyota camry before that, they are not comparable with this car, after hours of driving you still want to go more and more! you never tired when you drive this car. i have my 2003 impala for 2 years and everything still works fine and even better than before! all i know is i dont want to depreciate myself with driving a japanese car anymore.