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:

• 

  Simply Unbeatable! - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By P. Lease - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This is a fabulous car...I am 52 years old and have driven many different vehicles in my young life including Audis in your five star list. Gas mileage is great, smooth riding, comfortable on long road trips and the compliments I get are incredible. Since the purchase of this beautiful Impala, (mine is black w/tinted windows, leather seats & wood grain interior), I have nearly concluded that I may never change vehicles again...actually Im considering keeping this one "til death do us part".

• 

  Happy Impala Owner - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By John - September 29 - 3:04 pm

  I bought this car new and it is as great to drive as the day I bought it. The reliability is great and other than a catalytic converter covered by warranty car is trouble free. The size and comfort for all passengers is very good. Gas mileage is good. Terrific in snow.

• 

  Pre Purhcase Review - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By macattak1 - September 27 - 10:00 am

  Yet to purchase, however, I have noticed much on the numerous Imaplas I have looked at both new and used. Bad 1- Not painted anywhere you normally cant see. Gas cover, trunk and hood. Silly and CHEAP. View the Primer with every tank?! 2- Interior colors. Cream dash color too "pimp daddy" looking. 3- Honda Accord LX and EX at $21k and $24k v/s base and LS at $24 and $28k? OK. 1- Is the 3.4 as good as the 3.8 2- Offers 6 seating but only on 3.4. Good- 1- Great MPG on both. 2- Safty rating. 3- Fits 3 car seats in back. 4- Power 5- Limited # of options compared to Toyotas $19k base trying to wear $11k more in options!

• 

  Constant problems - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Lynda Baxter - September 25 - 8:02 am

  I purchased my impala in October 08,and I have not yet had it a year and there is water flying from the car,the engine light keeps coming on, I had the top hose replaced, the oil light keeps saying change oil. it is not time for a change yet, I am truly disappointed in this car.I have made sure that maintenance has been kept up and now I am being hit with problems on top of problems. Where do you go from here?

• 

  2004 Impala LS - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By royallouis - September 23 - 10:00 am

  Love the Chevy Impala ls ,other than the boring front grill.Handling is surprising for big sedan.Looks good and reliable.May be a little room for improvement but otherwise am delighted

• 

  Very Nice Car - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By BigDaddy - September 23 - 3:44 am

  One of the roomiest cars I have owned in a long time. I am as comfortable in this car as I am in my Silverado Pick-up. I am over 6 tall and it is one of the few cars I have been in that I cant reach the pedals with the seat all the way back. Dealership was great. For the price, warranty and dealer support you cannot beat it.

• 

  Quiet and Comfortable - 2010 Chevrolet Impala
  By BB - September 22 - 8:36 pm

  This is not a performance sedan but is quite comfortable and smooth on the road. There is a slight amount of delay in acceleration when starting to push the pedal. This car has plenty of pep but the styling is good but not great. Not a flashy car but most buyers want a performer that gets good mileage and this car does that well. If you want a big car with comfort and economy this is your ride!

• 

  Great Car! - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By BB - September 22 - 8:54 am

  Got the LT with luxury pkg. Love the smooth ride and handling. The interior looks great.Drove 600 mile trip the first week and go over 30mpg. The trunk space is awesome,esp. with the folddown rear seats. Can handle 4 golf bags. The Bose sound system is amazing,esp with the XM music. OnStar with the turn-by-turn option is wonderful,eliminates the need for GPS. Would recommend getting the upgrade package as it eliminates 90% of the complaints mentioned in the other reviews.

• 

  loosing value fast - 2010 Chevrolet Impala
  By chiapa - September 21 - 12:41 pm

  Nice car but it does not stand to its name, perfect rental car but no to keep it for a long time, got 32 mpg on high way with plenty of power. Will trade soon for something better before Im to far upside down on value.

• 

  Terrible Car - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Nancy - September 19 - 9:07 am

  Bought the car about 5 months ago. Totally disappointed in vehicle. Gas gauge quit working, wont start half the time, gas mileage isnt near as good as they say it should be. All in all the car is terrible. I would love to get rid of it. Had a Chrysler before this and loved it, but had to get new car because Chrysler was wrecked. I wont advise anyone in buying this Chevy. It is a piece of JUNK!!!!!!!