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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  I have fallen in love...with a car! - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By shellbelle86 - March 14 - 4:00 pm

  The impala has made driving fun for me again. It handles very well, quiet engine, plenty of power and it looks great inside and out. Im also saving money on gas these days. I was able to buy my car with extremely low mileage at a great price. I looked around and for the money you cant beat what you get with the impala.

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  Uninspiring - 2009 Chevrolet Impala
  By chevsucks - March 11 - 8:00 pm

  Ive had this car for almost a week now, and I wanted to take it back after a couple days. The interior has the cheapest materials Ive ever seen...cheap plastic everywhere. Cupholders are way too small in front, Side mirrors are off a Cobalt (cheap and small). Steering wheel is thin and made of a cheap rubbery plastic. Dome lights are in terrible places, No auto-up on the drivers side power window, no lumbar, average sound system but nothing to brag about, fake wood tries to make interior look classy, but with the other cheap plastic all around, it fails. Gutless V6 engine, terrible shifter materials, no tiptronic, no lumbar in seat, no volume on steering wheel, etc, etc, etc.

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  I love this car! - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By captfluffster - March 11 - 10:00 am

  LS level has the right balance between sportiness and luxury. A punchy engine and decent handling make this a fun to drive car. Yet on road trips, you can set the cruise control, stretch out, crank up the 200w amplified audio system, and get to your destination without feeling worn out. The presence of just a hint of engine rumble on strong accelerations, comfortable ride, burl dash and door trim, sporty but comfortable bucket seats, and a corvette styled rear end with spoiler add to the dichotomy between luxury and sportiness in this model.

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  Little Things - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By 2005 Chevy Impala LS - March 11 - 9:26 am

  I came from a Suburban to the Impala due to the gas crunch. Big change. The Impala naturally is smaller but does ride well. Better gas mileage for sure. For the money spent, it is a good car and the trunk space is great for all the "little things" that can be put there when traveling.

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  Big, comfortable sedan - 2017 Chevrolet Impala
  By Mark - March 8 - 10:13 pm

  I did a lot of research and was going to get a 2017 Mazda 6 in the Spring of 2017 to replace my 2007 Mazda 6. I had looked at Impalas and other big sedans but technology and luxury options pushed them above my budget. However Chevy offered 20% off MSRP on 2017 Impalas, meaning I could get $8K off a loaded Premier. I got a Premier in silver every option but the radar cruise control. The optional 20inch wheels look great in my opinion. However those tires are not suited for snow, so I purchased snow tires and wheels from Tire Rack. The car succeeds in providing a quiet comfortable ride with some decent features. I have just 2 minor issues so far. The transmission seems to like to start off in a high gear, I assume for fuel economy, so I have to step on the gas more than Im used to. The car has great power, and I love the sound of the V6. The other issue is with the wireless phone charger,P in the cubby with the door. The rubber pad is too thick for my phone to charge. I removed the pad and put a patch of thin rubber carpet backing there to keep the phone from sliding around, so far it works great. The Impala is compelling and with a 20% off incentive it was a no-brainer for me.

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  second to none - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By lonw - March 6 - 4:41 am

  This is my second Impala my other was the 2003 model, the 2008 is just as nice and seems quicker when you put the petal down, far better gauge display then the 2003.

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  best of the best - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By d moorefield - March 5 - 2:00 am

  traded a deville for this new 03 impala was not sure at first , but after 10 months i am sure this is one of the best cars on the road , comfort , looks and 36 miles to gal on highway i am still shocked at how good it handles fills in the turns , i go fast , and i like it

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  so far so good - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By mark - March 4 - 6:55 pm

  We are very pleased with our car. A little disappointed with sticker mileage compared to actual. All manufacturers seem to get away with that one? However very reliable car, runs smooth, LOTS of power. Wanted the LTZ because of more HP. Salesman said I would be happy with LT, and saved a lot of money. He was right. The traction control is a must in the snow here in Canada. Never had a problem. 2nd winter with it and reg. all season tires! By the way we found that if you order a car with the features you want it can save you money on the sticker price. Can save another thousand if you order it, as the dealers automatically tack on a thousand to cover cost of the car sitting on the lot.

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  Great car. - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Professor1 - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Love this car. Drives well, great mileage, very comfortable and safe. The car is by far my favorite, especially with options like dual temperature controls (my girlfriend can stay warmer), a great stereo, very roomy, and steering wheel controls for radio and cruise...Oh! And I really like split split front seats with safety options like side air bags. This car was well designed and well built, Ill be keeping mine a long time.

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  Disappointed Owner - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Drew - March 1 - 4:43 pm

  I purchased my 04 Impala brand new and the first year of owning the vehicle I thought it was the best car I ever owned. Year 2 I had to replace the speedometer and the radio, year 3 tie rod, rear hub assembly. Year 4 I had to replace the water pump, rebuild the transmission, and now I am having issues with the coolant system! All in all a major disappointed with GM products, especially a vehicle with a $26,000 sticker price! This is my second Impala, as I had one in 2003 that was wrecked, and I thought this car would last 10 years with no troubles! Boy was I surprised!!!! Chevrolet you need to get it together or Ill have to consider buying a Toyota or Nissan!