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:

• 

  2005 Chevrolet Impala LS - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Ken - April 7 - 5:01 pm

  I purchased one of the last 2005s at my local dealer, it was on the showroom floor. So far, I really enjoy this car, its comfortable, runs real well (3.8L V-6), and returns exceptional gas mileage. My commute is 100% city, no highway driving, in fact, I rarely get this car on the highway, and I consistently average 19 m.p.g. in city driving, not bad for a large 5 passenger sedan. The dash is a bit dated, but the exterior still has alot of appeal, and one of my favorite things about the exterior is that it is instantly recognizable as a Chevy, especially at night when the taillamps are lit !

• 

  A GOOD CAR - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By AL LAWRENCE - April 7 - 2:00 am

  Have had this car for 5 months. I have owned many cars, but this one seems to be the best so far. It handles great, fuel milege is great. The dealer has treated me great, unusuall for my experience with new cars. I shopped around before buying and chose the empala for open road performance. Fun to drive, the only problem I do have is backing up the car, the design of the body causes low rear visibility. It takes getting use to.

• 

  Under-rated ride - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Believe It - March 21 - 4:22 pm

  Overall great experience. Wanted lots of interior and trunk room, w/o spending too much. Great gas mileage (30 mpg highway @70 not uncommon). Sure its no Acura, Audi, etc. but I have gotten used to the many "extras" this car has that many do not at thousands more (auto headlamps, tire pressure sensors, rearview mirror auto tint, daytime running lights, delayed power after ignition off, etc.). It doesnt feel quite as "polished" as some foreign brands, yet I feel like it goes out of its way to take care of me. Brake rotors needed machined around 25,000 mi., and two steering wheel switches were replaced due to plastic flaking off. Really the only problems.

• 

  Great So Far - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By KBUD - March 20 - 9:36 am

  I have had a 60, 64SS 71 77 89 95 and now an 07 Impala. I have it 10 months now and I have to say, Im impressed. Sufficient power, comfortable front seats, road driving 32. In town, 26 average. Actually quieter than my 03 Mercury Marquis. Probably the best (mileage car) I have ever owned. By the way, I have a contact in Oshawa Canada where these are made and I am told the Impala quality control is strict and tight with constant inspections. Its not Grandpas old big monster Impalas, but I am rolling with the times and this looks like a winner.

• 

  Good basic transportation - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By chick molitor - March 16 - 9:38 pm

  The Impala has been a good car for my needs as a sales rep, putting on over 50,000 miles a year. Nothing spectacular in performance, just good reliable transportation

• 

  Great car - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Leo - March 6 - 12:53 am

  I bought the LT2 Impala used, with 7000 miles, and have driven 1500 miles so far. The car rides great, gets 30 mpg in combination city/highway, (about 75% highway)which is better than the 02 Nissan Altima 4 cylinder I traded in, can use E85 ethanol, and is a much more comfortable car. Looked at Accord and Camry, but the Impala is a lot more car for the money. I have friends with Hondas and Toyotas, and they are not as trouble free as some would have you think. If you drive as much as I do, and want a solid, cofortable car, with great safety ratings, check out the Impala LT

• 

  Id buy another - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Chris - February 6 - 3:42 pm

  The only problems with the 01 LS were related to a set of bad tires. She runs nicely, adequate power even as she approaches 100K miles. Lots of room on the interior and big trunk make it a nice family vehicle. If I were going to buy another American car, I would definitely go with another Impala.

• 

  Enjoyable - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By imp8020 - January 29 - 2:00 am

  My Impala is a pleasure to drive. Ive had 5 people in the LS w/ plenty of room. It has a decent ride, but could be a lil softer w/ those nice expansion joints on highways. It has nice "get up and go" power, as well as ample passing power. I have taken the car on trips to Ohio from MD, and get great gas mileage. And very little discomfort after a 3-4hr drive. Overall, Im very satisfied w/ the vehicle. With the price, you cant kick all the extras you get.

• 

  My Impala SS Experience - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jeannette Yackel - January 21 - 11:05 pm

  I love my Impala SS. Ive had it for almost 2 years and it still runs like a charm. Ive had no problems whatsoever with it. It drives great in rain, sleet or snow. I feel safe driving it in any weather. My three children ages 7, 11, and 12 all fit comfortably in the back seat. My son is 56 and has plenty of leg room in the back. They dont even touch elbows! I especially like driving on the highway. This car sure has some "get up and go"! I never worry about playing "chicken" to pass a "Sunday driver". That engine kicks in and I always have plenty of time to pass when needed. Out of the 5 vehicles Ive owned in my life, my Impala SS is definitely my favorite!

• 

  Good, but... - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By mattb - January 16 - 11:30 pm

  Overall I love my Impala. However, my transmission has slipped some... the tech said it was a bad solonoid valve that tends to go bad on all of them. The steering shaft had to be repacked and the dex-cool stuff turned into what looked like modeling clay. I converted it to green stuff. On the positive side would be the fuel economy, which is exceptional, the room, and the solidity of the car.