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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  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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  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!

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  Consider Something Else - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Bill - February 5 - 6:05 pm

  The car hasnt been terribly unreliable, but the front brakes and rotors wear very quickly. Also, the transmission started slipping after only 50,000 miles and had to end up being replaced. I wish this would have happened under warranty. I just wish some domestic car maker could put something on the market that would last at least 100,000 miles.

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  Never again - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Gregory - February 2 - 9:26 pm

  I usually dont say never but in this case I will never buy another Chevy for the rest of my entire life. I have had three and the Impala SS is the worst because it cost the most. This car has 36000 miles on it and its burning oil, the plastic is shedding its skin, warped rotor on right front. Rear view mirror wont remain tight. Carpet is cheap and there is a clunk in the rear end when going over bumps. I got ripped off and I will never ever buy another hunk of junk like this. As soon as I get enough of this loan paid off its back to Japan for me. My used Dodge was better then this car was new.

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  Junk - 2007 Chevrolet Impala
  By getit - January 13 - 6:12 pm

  I bought this car for company use in 2006. It is now 2009 and this car has pretty much been replaced. The tire monitor system constantly breaks, the hot air only works at 1500+rpms both fenders have been replaced, the tires wore out at 30,000 miles the gas gauge reads wrong, the paint is bad, the fuel tank had to be replaced, two injecters went bad. My MAF went bad, the driver seat ripped, the wood trim inside fell off, the rear speakers dont work, the engine makes alot of noise at idle and shakes bad at idle, the RPM gauge is faulty, the car idles to high, the power seats dont work, my rack went bad followed by my power steering pump, had tranny problems, and a ton more

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  Reliability Problems - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Ted - January 8 - 10:31 am

  I have a 2006 3.9 engine. 66,000 business miles in 2.5 years. Transmission, front end bearings, water pump, tire sensors, sway bar, all have failed. I like the car, but too many repairs. All dealership repairs. No explanation. I will never buy another Chevy. Thank God its a company car, not too much out of pocket.

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  Watch out. - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Jordiec - January 1 - 11:37 pm

  After owning this car for 6 months, Ive already had to put more than 1k into repairs for it and there is currently something wrong with it, yet again. I bought this car used, with 76k on it and was in love with it! So far Ive had problems with the body control module, fan system, and doors. I admire the interior - the seats are comfortable and it is roomy. It also gets pretty good gas mileage for such a big car. However, it is completely unreliable. It is cheaply made - the materials used are low quality. Just yesterday the gas cap fell off and a piece of the trunk interior did aswell. If youre going to buy a used car - look elsewhere! It is not a wise investment.

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  Mach 2.5 - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Toady Two Step - December 18 - 7:53 pm

  My mom bought this car in 2004 used with about 30k on it or so. Drove it until having heart surgery, and then passed it on to me. At first, I loved the thing. It cruises very fast (As she said "Impalas, run. Its great on West Virginia/Pennsylvanias twisty roads too. But, it could be more comfortable, ride a little smoother, have a bit more pep-in-its step, and most importantly- -stop. I pride myself in being the only 20 year old I know who doesnt need TCS in winter--because the ABS/TCS sensor hasnt worked in over a year. Also needs new rotors...again. Great beginners car. But, when I give it back? Ill get a CVPI.

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  Tranny done - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Lindsay - December 15 - 11:13 am

  I purchased my Impala in 2006 with 48k miles. In 2007 I began driving 120 miles a day for work and now it has plenty of highway miles. Ive replaced my struts, my driver side mirror is wobbly, replaced my headlights due to moisture in the lamps, the seal on the door leaks in the lightest of rain, I have recently found that my tranny is going out at 135k miles. Very disappointed. Thought I could drive this well into the 160k mile range. Its a Chevy for crying out loud! My husband is trying to talk me into another Impala, I read the reviews- I may being turning to Toyota....but not a Ford at least.

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  Not that happy - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Dee - November 10 - 8:09 am

  I currently am in a 4 year lease with my Impala with 11 months to go and counting! Not happy with the fact that it needed brakes and rotors all the way around at 24000 miles. Had and entire exhaust system put in this Aug, under warranty thankfully but now the warranty is up and I am terrified that this car is going to cost me during the last year I have it. Just put a tie rod in at my own expense. Other annoying problems. Lets see, rust spot that keeps reappearing on the trunk due to screws underneath trunk molding, clunking in the back end when you go over bumps, broken sun visor, fuel pump and hoses replaced after 1st yr. Passenger seat that clunks anytime someone sits in it. No more Chevys!