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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  Nice Car - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By Army Vet - March 28 - 10:57 am

  We bought this car off of the original owner with 25,000 miles on it. This car drives very well and man does it hug the road. This car does turn heads even when its dirty which is not very often. There are only two things one is it seems as tho the paint on the front end chips away very easy? The other is sometimes when you start it up the starter will stay engaged for about 3 to 5 seconds. Other than that I find that we are all very comfortable with this care and we are very happy with our choice.

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  Love the MPGs - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By JayL - March 26 - 8:28 pm

  This is the most comfortable car Ive owned. This was the showroom car loaded with all options but the sunroof. It has an extremely quiet ride. Very comfortable wide leather seats. Definitely a big mans car. I get a steady 27 MPG mixed use! On strict highway trips as much as 35. Granted, I am a professional driver and have been trained on smooth operation of an automobile. But this is better mileage than my 02 Hyundai Elantra 4 cyl stick got me. Cannot ask for more. Sticker says 20 city 30 highway. Its more! No mechanical issues yet, but the Eagle GT tires become noisy as it wears. Cant wait to put a set of Michelins on.

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  Hard not to buy another one! - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By Best Car ever - March 26 - 11:11 am

  Purchased this car new, just turned 170,000 miles on it! One major repair during this time which was normal wear other than that just had a problem with the sensor in the wheel for traction control which can be disengaged. This car has been wonderful. I am in sales and drive every day and then its the family car on the weekends with two kids and the dog. Its comfy for us and afforable. Im looking at getting a new car, figure its about time but cant bare to even think of trading this one in as its still going strong and while I would like something different just for a change, its hard not to buy another Impala since this has been so great. Oh, got the bigger V-6, sales rep suggested.

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  Best car in the nation besides Camry! - 1996 Chevrolet Impala
  By jg1 - March 25 - 4:34 pm

  I bought my SS with 89000 miles on it in 2005. This is a great car. Took it on trips no problem. Everybody always asking me do I want to sell it. The best big body car ever made. Runs real strong and lasts with the best of them.

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  If knew now when I bought it. - 2002 Chevrolet Impala
  By Michael - March 22 - 11:34 am

  This car is in the shop more than I drive it. I have had to replace the engine three times (due to over heating), transmission twice (hard shifting), security moge, headlight switch (headlights turn off at night while driving), catalytic. Convert (car smoking), hubs, axles (loud roaring), steering column (popping, ) and the list goes on. All and all I have sent over $11,000 on this car in repairs its not worth buying oh yea did I mention there is a class action lawsuit on this car from years 2000- 2005 with the 3.8l (or k modle under lawsuit search) engines. I going to mark this car as a dont buy! Trust me!

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  Cynthiana - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By cynthiana - March 16 - 1:17 pm

  Traded in an Oldsmobile Sillouette. Did see a particular need for a van & also the discontinuance of Olds. Always have been a family car person. Bought the Impala here in PA (Monesson). Been completely satisfied. Only long tripwas to Columbus, GA & back to Pgh area PA. Great gas mileage. Once on the open hiway, I set cruise control on 61 or 62. I do not fight traffic.

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  rockheadds ride - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By ken ward - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Weve onwed an Impala for 2 yrs and have 32k on it. we love the car and has been defect free. We enjoy the way it drives and rides and does not feel mushy at all, Contrary to your opinion, 3.8 delivers good power and mpg 24.5. everyone who rides in this car loves it and considers making it thier next car. A great car and you need to get over your prejudice of GM cars. The amount of space y ou give for a review is not large enought to express the praises of this auto

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  2004 Impalalogic - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By spencerswank - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Overall very pleased with vehicle very dependable and fun to drive.

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  2001 Impala LS - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By jdowling - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the car new in August 2001. Best car I have ever owned. I have owned 7 chevrolet products in the past.

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  Keep up the good work GM - 2006 Chevrolet Impala
  By Impala Lover - March 7 - 8:50 am

  I recently bought a 3LT Impala and am already convinced it is the best vehicle Ive ever owned. GM put a lot of time and effort into refining the exterior and interior with over 1,000 new parts compared to the previous generation. The 3.9 engine has lots of power, makes good mileage, and the transmission shifts smoothly. The car has an air of luxury about it, but without the price.