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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  Time to fix the Impala again : ( - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By dloc - April 5 - 10:35 am

  The Chevrolet Impala, Hmm hmm hmm. Where do I start. The exterior design is boring to say the least. The interior design even more boring. The heater/AC vents have all broken on my car (Thanks GM for really putting some effort into designing this car) I bought this car used in 2007. Right after I bought it the AC broke and the water pump went out. About $500 in repairs. What else is wrong with this car that shouldnt be: The cigarette lighter went out, the rear defroster went out, the back right window stopped rolling up, I had to replace the front wheel bearing assembly. Ohh and now it makes a loud annoying squeaking sound coming straight from the serpentine belt.

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  Great Car!!! - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By Greg - April 3 - 1:04 am

  Just traded in my 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix. The Impala is great, lots of power, and loads of room. You can fit a small family in the trunk!

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  09 Impala - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By Impala Owner - April 2 - 2:42 pm

  Ive had this car for three months and am generally satisfied. The gas mileage is excellent and the ride and handling are OK to good. The car is roomy. Outside visibility is somewhat hindered because of the door posts. No trouble so far. I would characterize this car as bland satisfactory basic transportation but other cars might offer more for the money.

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  2008 Impala LTZ vs my Montes - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Victoria - April 2 - 9:39 am

  My round trip daily commute to work is 120 miles. I have found the Impala to be stylish and comfortable and affordable. Would like better fuel economy. By changing brands of gasoline, I have increased gas mileage from 21 to 24/25 mpg hwy. I have owned 2 Monte Carlos, 2001 LS and 2006 LT and miss them both. 119,000 and 88,000 respectively. The Impala LTZ and SS are as close as you will come to the soon to be extinct Monte Carlos. The OnStar feature was a selling point for me and the Impala LTZ is priced right--good buy.

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  LOVE MY CAR!! - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By Chevfan - March 31 - 3:48 pm

  I just bought my car in March after owning an Altima and I absolutely love it! It came fully equipped with black leather seats, moon roof, spoiler, heated seats etc. I am so happy for choosing this car although all the extra stuff did sway my judgment a little! It rides very smooth and is very roomy inside. I have 3 children and it accommodates them perfectly. I would definitely recommend this vehicle.

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  Best car Ive owned - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By goiser - March 31 - 2:53 pm

  I love my Impala, I get near 30MPG highway and 25 or so freeway, which with last summers $4+ per gallon I was the envy of my friends. Comfortable- the drivers seat can be tweaked just right w/ fully elec adjustment and lumbar crank. Passenger seat doesnt have all that and seems a little squishier. The 3.8 gives an impressive get-up-and-go, and EXCELLENT passing acceleration when youve been following a slow poke and youve had it. Heated seat on drivers side went out twice, still out since its $$$ to fix it. Get higher speed-rated tires (like a "T" rating instead of stock "S") and the response will be amazing, like a corvette. Gives great view of the road from inside. Very happy.

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  the car - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By good n plenty - March 31 - 10:00 am

  is a good car vary fast and reliable lots of power go any where with confadence

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  Just OK - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By H .Todd - March 30 - 10:16 am

  traded a 2003 for this one,should have kept the 2003. The 2006 gas pedal pushes very hard makes your leg cramp up after a hour or so of driving. Ddealer says its in spec. Passenger seat sits forward slopeing too much, very uncomfortable.Cruise control not stable in holding set speed varies 3 to 4 mph then shifts in and out of overdrive constantly when in cruse. Engine kept dying all of the time after starts dealer says it has something to do with the E85 fuel, but has failed to fix the problem. Gas mileage could be better, 2003 impl got on average 28 to 29 mpg. 2006 gets on average 21 to 23 mpg.

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  I like it.... Impala LS 3.8L - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By texasdriver - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I drive a lot of miles... Im retiring my Suburban with 327K miles from daily use. So when I went looking for vehicles, SUVs were first on the list. With the current political situation and the potential for rising gas prices, I looked at the Impala. Primarily for fuel mileage, but also because it has a roomy interior. I purchased this car with 37.4K miles on it. Im averaging 28+ mpg, at about a 70/30 highway/city mix. There is no indication of the cars age in performance, appearance, or operation. Its a very comfortable cruiser with ample room for 5 adults. The trunk is huge. I miss my Sub, but not at the gas pump.

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  I like it.... Impala LS 3.8L - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By TexasDriver - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I drive a lot of miles... Im retiring my Suburban with 327K miles from daily use. So when I went looking for vehicles, SUVs were first on the list. With the current political situation and the potential for rising gas prices, I looked at the Impala. Primarily for fuel mileage, but also because it has a roomy interior. I purchased this car with 37.4K miles on it. Im averaging 28+ mpg, at about a 70/30 highway/city mix. There is no indication of the cars age in performance, appearance, or operation. Its a very comfortable cruiser with ample room for 5 adults. The trunk is huge. I miss my Sub, but not at the gas pump.