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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  My Chevorlet Impala SS 08 - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By David - October 13 - 8:55 pm

  Seems to have a steering response that is way too quick, better turn the traction control off if you plan on stomping on the gas pedal and pulling into the passing lane. As well, you better turn the traction control of if you see someone eyeballing you at the stoplight, or they are going to leave you burning rubber. Factory tires are junk and do not handle water, hydroplanes easy in the rain, Is quite dangerous in fact, this is a 50 mile per hour car in the rain. The steering can correct, but the tail is like a boat out of the water.

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  Not Chevy! - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Mo - October 11 - 2:13 pm

  After years of terrible experiences with Ford I was on my way to Chevy. I have always liked the look of Chevy it says sexy. My Chevy is anything but. I have a gas smell that comes through the vents that I have to roll down all windows to breathe for the first 5-8 minutes after cranking which after a year has still not been fixed due to the mechanics being unable to pinpoint the source. Runs sluggish I mean no take off except for this major lurch which scares me that I will one day run into someone. the CD player is worthless. I mean if I switch lanes it scratches and skips and the ride is rough. I am so disappointed. The good news is I will be trading it in soon for a Chevy truck.

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  Very Disappointed in the Fuel Mileage - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Joyce - October 7 - 6:00 pm

  I have owned 3 Suburbans and still have two of them. The choice to go to a car for fuel mileage brought me to the Impala. It was still a good sized car that was suppose to get 27 mpg and had pretty good safety rating. The mileage has been a huge disappointment. I tell everyone that asks that Chevy states they have all these cars that get 30 mpg but dont believe it. Our local dealer first blamed by tire pressure (it was 1 lb low). Then all they can say is the test were done in a wind tunnel and not in real conditions. I have wrote Chevy and no response. Thats customer service. Not sure I will every by Chevy again.

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  Awesome Car - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By meat4mad - October 7 - 5:43 am

  I have nothing but great things to say about this car. My SS Impala gets great gas mileage, turns heads, and continues to see many compliments on the style of the car. Many mechanics cant believe that a 5.3L V-8 can fit into a car with front wheel drive! It shocks the heck out of them!

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  Hey, yall wanted to see a review right? - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By sandrock - October 6 - 2:16 pm

  Picked up the 08 SS a few days ago, and I have to say its pretty good. Everyone mentions the torque steer, and everyone that has mentioned it is right. This car will surprise you if you are not careful. The seats are firm, but do not "hug" you like a sport seat should, but then again, this car is meant to cruise, not for SCCA solo-D. Highway ride is excellent. AFM system turns on and off real stealth-like...and the fuel economy numbers for highway are stellar for this type of engine.

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  Thorn in my flesh! - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Laura - October 6 - 12:14 pm

  Not many people are in the market these days specifically for an 01 Impala, but for the poor soul that might be considering this car a viable option, stop. I loved this car when I bought it and it ran perfectly for the first couple years. Then, at 50K miles, I had to rebuild the transmission. Downhill from there. The security system wiring is a mess, had to replace catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, head gaskets, fuel intake manifold, exhaust filter...on and on! Last Sunday, the drivers side window fell unprovoked down into the door and the power window motor will have to be replaced. But, I will not spend one more dime on this piece and not on any other GM, for that matter. Awful.

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  Cant beat this car - 2008 Chevrolet Impala
  By robert - October 4 - 3:53 pm

  For the size for the money you cant beat this car import or domestic. Under $20k for ls model. I get 33 mpg highway in a full size. I did my homework and this a better deal than Toyota Camry, Honda Accord. This car is a plain Jane inside and out but that is what makes it a great car

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  Poor Mileage - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By ANGELA VARGAS - October 4 - 7:03 am

  Love the way the vehicle drives. The gas mileage is bad. We cant get the mileage it says its supposed to.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By Tony - October 1 - 9:05 pm

  This car is a great value. 300 Hp and styling that will not get the attention of local law enforcement. I have been very pleased with this vehicle. It is true that the car has torque steer, but I have found that you get used to it very quickly. When I was looking for a vehicle I needed 5 things, under 20k, front wheel drive, auto, 4 doors and 300+ hp. There is no other vehicle that can match thoese requirements.

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  Excellent redesign! - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dave in Biloxi, MS - October 1 - 7:20 pm

  Was very satsified with my 03 Impala LS; lost it to Hurricane Katrina. Was all ready to buy an 06 Hyundai Sonata after test drive and research, but sound system not XM or iPod-ready without major modification yet (XM allegedly ready in Sonata during cal yr 06). Researched new-design 06 Impala as Plan B and decided that upgraded sound system and other LTZ features were worth considering. Have put 200+ miles on my new Impala since taking delivery yesterday and Im impressed. Choppy low-end gear shifting after first driving off lot (8 mi on odo) cleared up after a few miles break- in. Clean interior and exterior new designs are impressive. Highway cruising is smooth. Love the alloy-trim dash.