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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  2002 Impala LS - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Ric1275 - March 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is the best car Ive had so far.Changed grill and put cold air intake and now it perform iven better. GM done a good job with this car!

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  Best of 20 cars owned - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Happy Chevy Guy - March 27 - 7:23 pm

  My 2004 Impala has been an overall pleasure to own and drive. After 100 K miles and normal service, it still rides like a dream and has great acceleration. I average about 34 MPG on the freeway and 26 on local driving - tank after tank.

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  Great Value So Far - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By aarondl - March 27 - 4:18 pm

  We bought this car almost two years ago with 82k miles on it. Now we are at 100k and not had any serious problems with it. We had to have work done on front brakes soon after we bought it (probably previous owners fault) and then cat conv went down which was expensive. CEL still on because of O2 sensor or something - we dont notice any problems. Car is super comfortable and large inside and in the trunk. We love the exterior design. Engine has been reliable and has great balance of performance and mileage. Great car for trips. Ride is smooth, comfortable, and sturdy.

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  I will own nothing BUT an Impala SS! - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By elalewine - March 27 - 1:31 pm

  I have had my Impala SS for about 2 years now, and love it, love it, love it! It is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned! It has been reliable, comfortable, and fun! I like the sedan look and the interior is also very nice (I love the sunroof). I am at about 27,000 miles and have not had any problems, whatsoever. I am looking at the 2010 Impala SS and cant wait for that to come out! The trunk space surprised me as to how LARGE it was!

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  1 FAST IMPALA - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By 1fastimpala - March 27 - 12:14 pm

  This is one great all around car. You can easily obtain 27 mpg on a highway trip, but combined your looking at 20- 21 mpg(still not bad for a v8). When I was purchasing this Impala I was also looking at the 08 Honda Accord 4 cyl. They were almost the same in price, but a huge decrease in Insurance on the Impala SS. I couldnt believe it. I have had no problems with this car. Chevys are great quality cars.

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  06 impala - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By 06 impala - March 26 - 4:43 pm

  I have only had my 06 impala for 5weeks. I really like this car. I have noticed windows rattle when rolled down some. Some time there is a repeat noise when the car is idling. Clicking sound when turning steering wheel more than half way. One of the circulation lights would not turn off. Even when other circulation button was pressed. Yes remote only works within 5 feet. Car was at dealership yesterday. I was told idling noise normal, nothing wrong with window seal.Dealer was able to get the button unstuck. However stated one of the lights will remain on, unless air conditioner is turned on.(doesnt make sense) Lastly they were not able to duplicate the steering noise I hear.

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  2008 Chevrolet Impala LT 3.5L 6cyl 4A - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By Janice Launius - March 25 - 9:20 am

  A nice car for the money. 22 city. I like the information center, large trunk, however, it should have some type of center console with cup holders in rear seating, lighted vanity mirrors. My previously owned 2003 Impala had that and it was just a base model. This car is one step up and just the basic features arent their. Car rides well. I did have to return to dealship first week reguarding a poping noise in trunk. Wasnt to happy about have most of the trunk torn out which resulted in finding a very large bolt apparently left in from factory going from one side to the other on turns. One other trip reguarding a plastic clip left off on right headlight panel. However, I do like my car.

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  Solid enjoyable driving experience. - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By sandman - March 21 - 2:56 pm

  I looked at lots of cars before chosing the Impala. Hondas and Toyotas dont stack up in the quality and solid feel when you close the doors. Auto insurance is also lower than buying foreign, I checked with insurance companies to help decide which car was the least expensive to own.

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  Im loving my new Chevrolet Impala - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By bigdiva78 - March 18 - 3:32 pm

  Although the interior is sort of cheesy, Im totally loving this car. I went from a 1999 Ford Contour to this vehicle and could not have made a better choice. It definitely serves the needs of my livelihood. Again, the interior design could use more work. For the most part, I am a satisfied buyer!

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  best car ever made!! - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By J Finch - March 16 - 5:27 pm

  When I was at the dealership trading in my Dodge ram, I had in mind *I need something reliable* well having had my ram for only 7 months and having it in the shop 6 times had me kinda discouraged. Well I came across this impala, loved it at first sight. Unfortunately the only problem I have with the car is that every other impala seems to be the same shade of light Gray! Well that being said I love everything else! The 3.5 liter engine is powerful! And Ive gotten 36 miles per gallon on the highway, and average 24.6 in the city, which isnt bad! The trunk is huge! The interior is nicely done and the seats are the most comfortable and supportive Ive ever sat in and the ride is amazing!