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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  Best car ever owned - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By andybenz - December 28 - 12:24 pm

  We bought it used back in 2009 and its the BEST car we ever owned. I have never ridden in a car that is SO smooth and Comfortable! and when you step on it. the car whooshes down the road. and I sit back enjoying the ride. We havent had any issues with it. We have the LS trim so it looks so much attractive with the sporty look and the wheels and has a much bigger engine. We still have it with almost 200k miles and still runs like new except for the smoky smell after you really step on it after 150k miles. but thats just the grease. could happen to any car anyway

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  Great car - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By mopardave - December 23 - 8:29 pm

  I have 260 000 km on the car. The car still runs great. The low oil pressure warning came on, mine was easy fix, changed the switch ($37) and thermostat (run hot, ac off warning) replaced. I hope to get to 400000km. Everything still works well and it drives like the day I bought it.

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  Love my Impala! - 2012 Chevrolet Impala
  By retire2018 - December 6 - 11:42 pm

  Not sure what the complaints are about. This car is a pleasure to drive. I drive a combination of driving and get 24 mpg. The 300hp is amazing! Smooth acceleration and great braking. I dont know about others but I have no problems with parking, good turning radius. The car rides and handles well. As for pricing, I bought the car with 21.4k miles and paid $11900. It is a LT model and was a rental out of Montana. It has tinted windows and a sunroof. As far as handling, I find it to handle quite well for the size of car that it is. My personal opinion is that its a great car and a great value.

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  Get what you paid for... - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By ferdinand1201 - November 7 - 3:24 am

  I purchased my 06 Impala last month after a week I noticed a leak under engine. I sent it back to auto dealer I bought the car, they replaced the oil gasket. The leak disappeared, cold days just around the corner I switched heater dial and a loud ticking noice annoys me which last for a minute or so. Besides any reviews I read here no problem with tranny or engine KNOCK ON WOOD! But, I love it for now... well see.

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  More Than I Expected.... - 2014 Chevrolet Impala
  By warm2855 - October 24 - 1:45 pm

  Its rare when you buy something and its better than you expect....but thats just what my 2014 Chevy Impala 2LTZ delivered....quiet on the road, 29 mpg, great Bose stereo, enough power on the freeway (a little short on acceleration but not much...wish they had a v8 up front)....in short, this car, over 18000 miles, has been a pleasure to drive and service at my dealer has been great....very, very happy with this car...and I used to own the big Mercedes and BMWs...while this car isnt one of those, it is a great value....if youre looking at the German autos, add the Chevy to your shopping list.

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  Full of Defects - 2014 Chevrolet Impala
  By dsn888 - October 13 - 1:48 pm

  Purchased new in April of 2014. 20" GM wheels rub during low speed turns. Two defective steering wheels - leather stitching falls apart. Electronic parking brake will not disengage resulting in smoking brakes and red hot rotors + fire hazard. Back-up camera display goes black when gear selecter placed in reverse. Collision alert system false alarms when no vehicles are in the road in front. Navigation system does not recognize voice commands and gets you lost. Has trouble finding adresses. The constant problems with electronics and wasted return trips to the dealership for repair make this a not recommend vehicle. Got rid of it at 7500 miles and 6 months use. Lost 50% Value.

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  Great Car! - 2012 Chevrolet Impala
  By yankees2012 - October 3 - 7:17 pm

  Just purchased a used 2012 Impala LT with 17k miles. I got it for a great price and I can tell you its one of the best rides you can experience. I always had Cadillacs but this time I dont have as much to spend so I tried the Impala. What a car! I should have been looking in to Chevy sooner. The pick up and the nice soft ride is just like a Caddy. I tell you, there are no import cars out there that can give you a ride like this. I have driven them all. Edmunds review of the Impala having cheap interior, I dont see it. They just cater to foreign automobiles.

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  First time owner of Impala - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By 2011franf - September 24 - 7:39 pm

  a friend who has a impala just like mind was having some issues with her car. on this edmunds.com site when i was reading some reviews about other people who had similiar issues with there impala.I was surprised to read the reviews..I purchased my impala in 2011 and one month later when driving home from work the check engine light, service traction control light, ABS light, service airbags light, and tire gage light all came on at the same time..needless to say i did not know what was going on. before I could get it into the shop the next day i was exiting the ramp to enter the freeway when suddenly the car accelerated on its own and slammed me into a brick wall.

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  Older modeld - 2013 Chevrolet Impala
  By kingkole02 - September 6 - 10:27 am

  This model is one before the new versions came out. It seems really basic. The engine is far but does not compare to the newer models at all. Interior looks a little dated and the exterior looks the same. Interior space is nice and seats are comfortable, truck has ample space. Good full size car for travel but not for everyday usage.

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  Its all about Value - 2013 Chevrolet Impala
  By carguy198 - August 7 - 8:49 pm

  I bought my 2013 Chevy Impala LT with 16k miles and Ive had the vehicle now for 1 year and put an additional 12k miles on it. I have to say I am very impressed with this vehicle because of the value it offers. You get GMs flagship 3.6L V6 engine with the 6 speed automatic in a full size sedan for under 16k in the current model year. Thats almost 50% off sticker for just 16k miles. For the money, there isnt a better deal on a vehicle out there (believe me, Ive looked). Great daily driver. Not a sports cars, its a full size sedan designed to be comfortable and reliable. MPG numbers are spot on too, 17 City and 31 Highway. Go take a look at one!