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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  Love my impala - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By impalafan - February 27 - 2:18 am

  Had this car 3+ yrs, & still love it. At about 47k miles, and ready for new tires/ brakes. Fun to drive, great power, & plenty of room for my 250lb frame I could drive in comfort forever. Massive trunk, 17+ sq.ft.! 3.8 V6 can really take off, easy to get flying if youre not careful! Dashboard/stereo laid out well, intuitive controls. Info center tells you when you need gas, washer fluid, & even when tire pressure is low. XM & OnStar are standard. I cant say enough for this car!

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  Love it! - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By Stephanie - February 26 - 1:49 pm

  I love my Impala SS Indy Limited edition. It has been an overall great car! It is comfortable, fun to drive, and the sterreo is awesome! My only complaint with this vehicle is having to put premium gas in it. Ooch! It is not a winter vehicle unless you live somewhere that doesnt get any snow!

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  Best car Ive owned yet - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By Angela - February 21 - 10:00 am

  After 2 years of owning this car Ive only had one problem with it(catalytic converter) and GM fixed it free of charge. The ride is very smooth and power of the 3.8L V6 is wonderful. Its very spacious with lots of room in the trunk. Ive driven this car from Nebraska to Florida and to North Carolina and back with absolutely no problems. The gas mileage is good as well for a V6.

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  cool chevy - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By jstein99 - February 20 - 10:00 am

  i love my impala. cool, black, fully loaded. drives like a dream. lot of room. fuel-efficient. nice leather.

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  Mostly Happy - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By susan - February 17 - 9:12 pm

  Bought the car late 2003. Still have it and am now at 108,000 miles. Replaced the temp gauge at 80,000 miles, brakes at 87,000 miles and had no other major problems until 106,000 miles and then the biggie: Transmission went bad. Had to be rebuilt ($2,000). After that bummer, I have resummed my love for the car. Rides smooth, love the interior room. Not the easiest to handle on curves, but this car will fly! Lots of power, with a hint of a luxury feel. Great for road trips. Could be more sound proof inside, but overall well-built car. Would probably buy another.

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  Ups & Downs - 2003 Chevrolet Impala
  By liquid_dark - February 15 - 10:02 am

  I have had my beautiful Impala for just over 3 years now. I have had quite a few repairs but I still love this car. Its fun to drive and looks great. When it does run it runs great and I will admit that I am slightly rough on it by driving it so much. I would totally own another one and I do realize that repairs come with each vehicle. I would suggest this to someone looking for a car.

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  problem s - 2005 Chevrolet Impala
  By puppet - February 15 - 8:34 am

  The front of the car is to low and everytime I go over a bump-it scraps under the bottom of the car. I recently are have problems with transmission fuel leaking and the steering shaft is making noises. Also, I dont have any heat on the drivers side.

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  Run as fast as you can - 2001 Chevrolet Impala
  By james1 - February 11 - 10:26 pm

  I went from a 1992 GMC Jimmy to this. I had 242,000 miles on the Jimmy and was less afraid to take that on a trip than I am this car. I bought it with 91,000 miles on it and have only driven it 11,000 so far. Out of that 11,000 miles I have had to get it towed twice and it has been back to the dealership at least 6 times. The car is not that old or that highmileaged to have to worry about being able to make it someplace without it blowing up. plus if you live in an area with alot of potholes or on a dirt road the car is so low that it drags all of the time. I hate saying it but you are better to spend a little more money on gas and buy a Tarus. at least they dont die ever 1500 miles.

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  Dream Car - 1994 Chevrolet Impala
  By Rice SS - February 8 - 1:07 pm

  This car has been my dream car since it first came out 14 years ago. It has been a drwam drivng so far. I really am a fan of the 96 but Im happy with the 94 so far. Only problem is the power lock fuse keeps blowing. Probably something the stereo installer did because thats when it started. It came with dual wide chrome pipes and growls like a pitbull at a stop light. If you drive this thing like a 4 cylinder you will come out the pocket in gas. So far Im at 15+ mpgs. You have to cruise. Heads turn left and right for this car but the police are looking too. Not recommended for someone who wants to be low key. Highly recommended for the life of the party type of person.

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  my top pick - 2004 Chevrolet Impala
  By growbiz2001 - February 8 - 2:00 am

  I rent a lot of autos when travelling, and always request the Impala if I have to spend any real time in the car. I own my 2nd Impala. First was a 2000, now a 2002. Great interior design changes in 2 years. Extremely happy with the car overall.