Chevrolet Impala facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chevrolet Impala |
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![]() Tenth generation model (2014–2020)
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Overview | |
Manufacturer | Chevrolet |
Production |
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Model years |
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Body and chassis | |
Class | Full-size car (Gens 1-7, 10) > Mid-size car (Gens 8-9) |
Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (1958–1996) Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (2000–2020) |
Chronology | |
Predecessor | Chevrolet Bel Air Chevrolet Lumina (Gen 2) |
Successor | Chevrolet SS (for Impala SS) |
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size car made by Chevrolet. It was produced from 1958 to 1985, then from 1994 to 1996, and again from 2000 to 2020. The Impala was one of Chevrolet's most popular cars and sold very well in the United States.
When it first came out in 1958, the Impala was special because of its three taillights on each side. Later, the Chevrolet Caprice was introduced as a more luxurious version of the Impala. The Impala continued to be a top-selling full-size car until the mid-1980s. From 1994 to 1996, the Impala was brought back as a powerful V8 version of the Caprice Classic sedan.
In 2000, the Impala returned again, this time as a front-wheel drive car. By 2014, the Impala was ranked as a top "Affordable Large Car" by U.S. News & World Report. When the tenth generation of the Impala came out in 2014, the older ninth generation was renamed "Impala Limited" and sold mainly to businesses and police fleets until 2016. The tenth-generation Impala was also sold in the Middle East and South Korea.
Contents
- What is the Impala's history?
- First Generation (1958): How it Started
- Second Generation (1959–1960): New Look, More Options
- Third Generation (1961–1964): Sleeker Designs and Power
- Impala SS (1961–1969): Performance and Style
- Fourth Generation (1965–1970): Record Sales and New Features
- Fifth Generation (1971–1976): Bigger and More Luxurious
- Sixth Generation (1977–1985): Smaller Size, Big Sales
- Seventh Generation (Impala SS, 1994–1996): The Return of the SS
- Eighth Generation (2000–2005): Front-Wheel Drive Comeback
- Ninth Generation (2006–2016): Modern Updates
- Tenth Generation (2014–2020): Modern and Award-Winning
- Why was the Impala discontinued?
- Safety: How Safe is the Impala?
- Awards: What Awards Did the Impala Win?
- NASCAR: Impala on the Race Track
- Images for kids
- See also
What is the Impala's history?
The Impala name was first used for a special show car in 1956. This car had a design similar to the Chevrolet Corvette. It was named after the graceful African antelope, which also became the car's logo. The first design sketch for the 1958 Chevrolet Impala was seen in October 1956, and the basic design was ready seven months later.
First Generation (1958): How it Started
First generation | |
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![]() 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Impala Sport Coupe
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Overview | |
Model years | 1958 |
Assembly | (main plant) Flint, Michigan, (Flint Assembly (branch assembly) Oshawa, Ontario (Oshawa Car Assembly) Baltimore, Maryland, (Baltimore Assembly) St. Louis, Missouri, (St. Louis Assembly) South Gate, California, (South Gate Assembly) |
Designer | Joseph R. Schemansky |
Body and chassis | |
Body style |
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Layout | FR layout |
Platform | GM B platform |
Related | 1958 Chevrolet Delray 1958 Chevrolet Biscayne 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air 1958 Chevrolet Yeoman 1958 Chevrolet Brookwood 1958 Chevrolet Nomad |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 235 cu in (3.9 L) Blue Flame I6 283 cu in (4.6 L) Turbo Fire V8 348 cu in (5.7 L) W-series Turbo Thrust V8 |
Transmission | 3-speed manual 3-speed with overdrive manual Turboglide automatic 2-speed Powerglide automatic |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 2985 mm (117.5 in) |
Length | 5310 mm (209.1 in) |
Width | 1975 mm (77.7 in) |
Height | 1450 mm (57 in) |
In 1958, Chevrolet introduced the Impala as a top-level version of the Chevrolet Bel Air line. It came as a hardtop or a convertible. The 1958 Impala looked different from other Chevrolet models from the middle of the car backward.
The 1958 Chevrolet models were longer, lower, and wider than before. They were the first to have dual headlights. The tailfins from 1957 were replaced with sculpted rear fenders. Impalas had three taillights on each side, while other models had fewer.
The car used a new "X-shaped" frame instead of the usual one. Chevrolet said this new frame made the car stronger and allowed for a lower passenger area. The standard engine was a 283 cubic inch V8. A larger 348 cubic inch V8 was also available.
In 1958, 55,989 Impala convertibles and 125,480 coupes were built. This helped Chevrolet become the number one car producer again that year.
Second Generation (1959–1960): New Look, More Options
Second generation | |
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![]() 1959 Chevrolet Impala Convertible
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Overview | |
Production | 1958–1960 |
Model years | 1959–1960 |
Assembly | (main plant) Flint, Michigan, (Flint Assembly (branch assembly) Baltimore, Maryland, (Baltimore Assembly) St. Louis, Missouri, (St. Louis Assembly) South Gate, California, (South Gate Assembly) |
Designer | Bill Mitchell |
Body and chassis | |
Body style |
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Layout | FR layout |
Platform | GM B-body |
Related | 1959–1960 Chevrolet Biscayne 1959–1960 Chevrolet Bel Air 1959–1960 Chevrolet Brookwood 1959–1960 Chevrolet Parkwood 1959–1960 Chevrolet Kingswood 1959–1960 Chevrolet Nomad 1959–1960 Chevrolet El Camino 1959–1960 Pontiac Catalina |
Powertrain | |
Engine | |
Transmission | 3-speed (close-ratio) manual 3-speed overdrive manual 4-speed manual Turboglide auto. 2-speed Powerglide auto. |
The 1959 Chevrolet Impala was completely redesigned. It shared its body with other GM cars like Buicks and Oldsmobiles. The roof was three inches lower, and the body was two inches wider. Its tailfins stuck out sideways instead of upwards.
The Impala became its own separate car series. It now offered four-door hardtop and sedan models, in addition to the two-door Sport Coupe and convertible. Inside, the cars had armrests, an electric clock, and dual sun visors. A new option was a six-way power seat.
For 1960, Impala models went back to having three round taillights on each side. A white stripe ran along the rear fenders. Production reached 490,000 units.
Did the Impala go to other countries?
Yes, right-hand drive Impalas were made in Canada for countries like New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. These cars were put together locally from kits. The Australian Impala was the first American car after World War II to come with a V8 engine as standard.
Third Generation (1961–1964): Sleeker Designs and Power
Third generation | |
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![]() 1961 Chevrolet Impala Convertible
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Overview | |
Production | 1960–1964 |
Model years | 1961–1964 |
Assembly | United States: (main plant) Flint, Michigan, (Flint Assembly (branch assembly) Arlington, Texas, (Arlington Assembly) St. Louis, Missouri, (St. Louis Assembly) South Gate, California, (South Gate Assembly) Baltimore, Maryland, (Baltimore Assembly) India: Calcutta New Zealand: South Africa: |
Body and chassis | |
Body style |
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Layout | FR layout |
Platform | B-body |
Related |
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Powertrain | |
Engine |
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Transmission | 3-speed Automatic 4-speed Manual Powerglide |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 3025 mm (119 in) |
Length | 5315 mm (209.3 in) |
1961: A New Shape for the Impala
For 1961, the Impala got a new, more squared-off body style. The Sport Coupe models had a "bubbleback" roof. A "Super Sport" (SS) option was offered for the first time in 1961. This was also the last year the top station wagon was called "Nomad."
1962: Popular Rooflines and More Engines
The 1962 models had new roof styling, especially for the Sport Coupe, which now looked like a convertible with a hardtop. This style became very popular. The 348 V8 engine was replaced by the more powerful 409 cubic inch V8. The Beach Boys even made a hit song called "409" about this engine! Impalas had nicer interiors and more chrome trim outside.
1963: Sharp Looks and a Special Racing Engine
The 1963 Impala had a sharp, straight-lined design. The SS models featured a special aluminum panel at the back. Engine choices were similar to 1962, with the 283 and 327 V8s being very popular. A special 427 cubic inch version of the 409 engine was made for racing in 1963. Only 50 of these powerful Z11 cars were produced.
1964: Smoother Style and Lowrider Favorite
For 1964, the Impala was restyled to look softer and more rounded. The 409 V8 engine was still a big option. The 1964 Impala is very popular in lowrider culture and is often mentioned in West Coast hip hop songs.
Exports: Impalas Around the World
Right-hand drive Impalas were built in Canada and sent to countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. These cars used a special right-hand drive dashboard. Australian models were put together in Australia, while New Zealand models were assembled from pre-painted parts.
Impala SS (1961–1969): Performance and Style
Chevrolet introduced the Impala SS (Super Sport) option in 1960. The SS badge became a symbol of performance for Chevrolet. In 1961, the factory SS package was a true performance upgrade. It included powerful V8 engines like the 348 and the new 409 V8. It also came with stronger tires, springs, and brakes. Only 142 Impala Super Sports were made with the 409 engine in 1961.
From 1962 onwards, the Impala SS was mostly a special appearance package. It was available on hardtop coupe and convertible models. These cars had unique aluminum trim or a "blackout" strip under the taillights.
Fourth Generation (1965–1970): Record Sales and New Features
Fourth generation | |
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1965 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe
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Overview | |
Production | 1964–1970 |
The Impala was redesigned in 1965 and sold over 1 million units in the U.S. that year, a record! All new full-size Chevrolets got a stronger frame and new body styles with curved, frameless side windows.
In 1965, Chevrolet added a new luxury package called "Caprice" for the Impala four-door hardtop. This package included fancy upholstery and wood-grain accents. The Caprice later became its own separate, more luxurious car series. Engine options included six-cylinder and V8 engines.
The 1967 model had a redesigned look with curves inspired by the Corvette. Safety features were added in 1967 and 1968, like a steering column that would collapse in a crash and side marker lights.
The 1968 model got a new front end and triple "horseshoe" shaped taillights. A new Impala Custom Coupe model was introduced, which was very popular.
The 1969 Impala had new, flatter body sides. The ignition switch was moved to the steering column, and when the key was removed, the steering wheel and shifter would lock. Impala station wagons were renamed Kingswood. The 1970 Impala got a small update with a new front bumper and vertical taillights.
Exports: Impalas Overseas Again
Right-hand drive Impalas were made in Canada and exported to countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom until 1969. Australian models were assembled from kits to reduce taxes.
Fifth Generation (1971–1976): Bigger and More Luxurious
Fifth generation | |
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![]() 1974 Impala Sport Sedan
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Overview | |
Production | 1970–1976 |
The Impala remained Chevrolet's best-selling car in its fifth generation. The 1971 models were the largest cars Chevrolet had ever offered. They were very luxurious, almost like a Cadillac, with many comfort features. Power front disc brakes became standard in 1971, and power steering became standard in 1972.
The 1972 model had a grille that extended below the bumper. Most engines were V8s. The 1972 Impala was the last year for the convertible model.
In 1973, all Chevrolet cars got larger, shock-absorbing front bumpers to meet new safety rules. The Impala station wagon was again called Kingswood.
In 1974, both the front and rear bumpers were redesigned for safety. The Impala coupes also got new rooflines. A special "Spirit of America" package was offered in 1974, featuring white or blue paint and special badges.
The 1975 Impala used a front end similar to the 1974 Caprice. New features included an "Econominder" gauge and intermittent wipers. This was the last year for the full-size Chevrolet convertible. A "Landau" model was available in 1975–1976 with a special vinyl roof. The 2-door hardtop was discontinued after 1975.
Sixth Generation (1977–1985): Smaller Size, Big Sales
Sixth generation | |
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![]() 1977 Chevrolet Impala Coupe
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Overview | |
Production | 1976–1985 |
Model years | 1977–1985 |
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Body and chassis | |
Body style |
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Layout | FR layout |
Platform | B-body |
Related |
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Powertrain | |
Engine | |
Transmission |
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Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 116 in (2,946 mm) |
Length | 212.1 in (5,387 mm) |
Width | 75.5 in (1,918 mm) |
Height | 55.3 in (1,405 mm) |
In 1976, Chevrolet redesigned the Impala to be smaller. The new Impalas were shorter, taller, and narrower. Even with smaller outside dimensions, they had more headroom, legroom, and trunk space inside. Sales increased, and the Impala became the number one selling car in the U.S. again. The 1977 Impala was named "Car of the Year" by Motor Trend magazine.
The two-door coupe and station wagon models were stopped after 1981. The Impala was discontinued in 1985. The Chevrolet Caprice continued to be produced until 1990.
Seventh Generation (Impala SS, 1994–1996): The Return of the SS
Seventh generation | |
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![]() Chevrolet Impala SS 4-door sedan
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Overview | |
Also called | Chevrolet Caprice SS (Middle East) |
Production | February 14, 1994 – December 13, 1996 69,768 total units produced |
Model years | 1994–1996 |
Assembly | United States: Arlington, Texas, (Arlington Assembly) |
Body and chassis | |
Body style | 4-door sedan |
Layout | FR layout |
Platform | B-body |
Related |
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Powertrain | |
Engine | 5.7 L (350 cu in) LT1 V8 |
Transmission | 4-speed 4L60-E automatic |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 115.9 in (2,944 mm) |
Length | 214.1 in (5,438 mm) |
Width | 77 in (1,956 mm) |
Height | 54.7 in (1,389 mm) |
Weight | 4,036 lb (1,831 kg) |
The Impala SS name was brought back in 1992 as a concept car. It was lower to the ground than the regular Caprice and had a powerful V8 engine.
The 1994 Impala SS began production in February 1994. It was a high-performance version of the Caprice, based on the police car model. It had a sport-tuned suspension, strong brakes, and a special cooling system.
The Impala SS came with a 5.7-liter V8 engine, making 260 horsepower. It had body-colored trim, a unique grille, and a rear spoiler. It also featured 17-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, it had a center console, leather seats with the Impala SS logo, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
For 1994, it was only available in black. In 1995, Dark Cherry Metallic and Dark Grey Green colors were added. 1996 was the last year for this Impala SS, with over 41,000 units sold. The 1996 Impala SS was also sold in the Middle East as the Caprice SS.
Why was the Impala SS discontinued?
The entire line of cars that included the Impala SS was stopped because GM wanted to make more profitable SUVs. The last Impala SS was produced on December 13, 1996.
Eighth Generation (2000–2005): Front-Wheel Drive Comeback
Eighth generation | |
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![]() Chevrolet Impala Sedan
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Overview | |
Production | 1999–2005 |
Model years | 2000–2005 |
Assembly | Canada: Oshawa, Ontario (Oshawa Car Assembly) |
Designer | John Cafaro |
Body and chassis | |
Body style | 4-door sedan |
Layout | Transverse front-engine, front-wheel drive |
Platform | W-body 2nd Gen |
Related |
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Powertrain | |
Engine | |
Transmission |
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Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 110.5 in (2,807 mm) |
Length | 200.0 in (5,080 mm) |
Width | 73 in (1,854 mm) |
Height |
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Weight | 3,465 lb (1,572 kg) |
The Impala name was brought back for the 2000 model year. This new Impala was front-wheel drive and built in Canada. It came with a choice of two V6 engines. A new Impala SS model with a supercharged V6 engine was released for the 2004 model year.
From 2000 to 2003, the Impala had two main versions: the base model and the LS. The base model had cloth seats and a 3.4-liter V6 engine. The LS had more features like anti-lock brakes, traction control system, and a larger 3.8-liter V6 engine.
The 2004 to 2005 Impala SS came with a supercharged 3.8-liter V6 engine. This made it as fast as the earlier 1990s Impala SS. In 2004, a special "Indy SS" edition was offered to celebrate Chevrolet's connection with the Indianapolis 500 race.
Impala 9C1 and 9C3: Police Cars
Special versions of the Impala, called 9C1 and 9C3, were made for police and emergency services. These cars had stronger suspensions and the 3.8-liter V6 engine. They also had special features like a "SURV MODE" switch to turn off all lights for undercover work.
These police Impalas were popular with big city police departments. However, the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor was still preferred by many agencies because it was larger and had a V8 engine with rear-wheel drive.
Ninth Generation (2006–2016): Modern Updates
Ninth generation | |
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Overview | |
Production | 2005–2013 2014–2016 (as Impala Limited) |
Model years | 2006–2013 2014–2016 (as Impala Limited) |
Assembly | Oshawa, Canada (Oshawa Car Assembly) |
Designer | Louis "Chip" Thole |
Body and chassis | |
Body style | 4-door sedan |
Layout | Transverse front-engine, front-wheel drive |
Platform | W-body 3rd Gen |
Related |
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Powertrain | |
Engine | |
Transmission |
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Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 110.5 in (2,807 mm) |
Length | 200.4 inches (5,090 mm) |
Width | 72.9 inches (1,850 mm) |
Height | 58.7 in (1,491 mm) |
Weight | 3,764 lb (1,707 kg) |
2006: New Look, V8 Power Returns
The 2006 Impala was introduced in January 2005. It had new taillights and a base 3.5-liter V6 engine. The SS model brought back a V8 engine for the first time since 1996. This 5.3-liter V8 produced 303 horsepower.
The ninth-generation Impala came in different trim levels: LS, LT, LTZ, and SS. The interior featured wood trim and chrome accents.
2007-2013: Updates and Engine Changes
In 2007, the Impala offered a "FlexFuel" option, meaning it could run on a mix of gasoline and ethanol. A tire-pressure-monitoring system and cruise control became standard.
For 2009, the Impala got new exterior colors. The SS model was discontinued after 2009. In 2012, the Impala received a new 3.6-liter V6 engine with 302 horsepower and a new six-speed automatic transmission.
Impala Limited (2014–2016): Fleet Sales Only
The ninth-generation Impala continued to be made until 2016, but only for rental companies, fleets, and police departments. It was renamed "Impala Limited." Production ended in May 2016.
Impala 9C1 & 9C3 (Ninth Generation): Police Cars Continue
The Impala continued to be offered as a police car. These models had stronger parts and special features for law enforcement. They could have steel wheels, rubber flooring, and special wiring for police equipment. They also had a unique external trunk lock.
Tenth Generation (2014–2020): Modern and Award-Winning
Tenth generation | |
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Overview | |
Production | 2013–2020 |
Model years | 2014–2020 |
Assembly |
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Designer | Steve McCabe (2006) |
Body and chassis | |
Body style | 4-door sedan |
Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel drive |
Platform | GM Epsilon II LWB |
Related | Cadillac XTS Buick LaCrosse Saab 9–5 |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 2.4 L LUK Ecotec I4 eAssist 2.5 L LKW Ecotec I4 3.6 L LFX V6 |
Transmission | 6-speed 6T70 automatic 6-speed 6T40 automatic (eAssist only) |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 111.7 inches (2,840 mm) |
Length | 201.3 inches (5,110 mm) |
Width | 73 inches (1,900 mm) |
Height | 58.9 in (1,496 mm) |
Weight |
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The tenth-generation Impala was shown in 2012 for the 2014 model year. It was the first North American sedan in 20 years to get a top score from Consumer Reports. This Impala was classified as a full-size car again. It was larger than the previous model.
The 2014 Impala came with 18-inch wheels and modern headlights. It offered three engine choices: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with hybrid-assist, and a 3.6-liter V6. New safety features included 10 airbags and OnStar. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and various alerts for safety.
Model Year Changes: What's New Each Year?
For 2015, 4G LTE internet was added as an option. The hybrid-assist version was stopped due to low sales.
In 2016, a "Midnight appearance package" was added, which gave the car black wheels and badges. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were also added.
The 2017 model year saw minor changes, and the top-level LTZ trim was renamed "Premier." For 2018, keyless start, a rear camera, and MyLink became standard on all models.
The 2019 model year had only small changes. The 2020 model year was the final year for the Impala sedan. Only the 3.6L V6 engine was offered.
2015 Bi-Fuel: Running on Natural Gas
The 2015 Chevrolet Impala Bi-Fuel could run on both CNG (compressed natural gas) and gasoline. This was a rare factory-made CNG car available for regular sales. It had a driving range of 500 miles and could switch between fuels with a button.
International Markets: Impala Goes to Korea
The Impala was sold in South Korea starting in 2016. This was the first time Chevrolet offered an American-built full-size sedan in the Korean market.
Trim Levels: Choices for Every Driver
The tenth-generation Impala came in three main trim levels: LS, LT, and LTZ (later Premier). Each level offered many standard features:
- LS: Included a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, 18-inch steel wheels, a 4.2-inch color screen, and cloth seats. This trim was stopped after 2019.
- LT: Added 18-inch aluminum wheels, an 8-inch MyLink screen, a security system, and remote start.
- LTZ (Premier): Included a 3.6L V6 engine, 19-inch aluminum wheels, keyless access, leather seats, heated front and rear seats, and a rearview camera.
Why was the Impala discontinued?
There was talk that GM might stop making the Impala to focus on more profitable SUVs. While GM initially said they would continue making sedans, they later changed their plans. The last Chevrolet Impala was built on February 27, 2020.
Safety: How Safe is the Impala?
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tested the Impala for crashes. Models from 2000 to 2005 received a "Good" rating for front crashes. The 2006 and newer Impalas received an "Acceptable" score for front crashes and a "Good" score for side crashes. Side-curtain airbags became standard on all models starting in 2009.
In 2009, it was found that some 2006–2009 Impalas sold to large businesses did not have side-curtain airbags. This meant some used Impalas bought by private owners might not have had these safety features.
In 2014, a safety investigation was opened for some 2014 Impala models. This was because a driver reported that the emergency braking system activated on its own. GM cooperated with the investigation.
Awards: What Awards Did the Impala Win?
- Motor Trend magazine named the full-size Chevrolet, including the Impala, its 1977 "Car of the Year."
- Automotive Fleet and Business Fleet magazines named the Impala "Fleet Car of the Year" in 2006, 2007, and 2008.
- The Canadian Automobile Association gave the Impala an award in 2006 for its new ethanol-powered E-85 model.
NASCAR: Impala on the Race Track
In 2007, the Impala began to replace the Chevrolet Monte Carlo in NASCAR races. It was used in the Sprint Cup Series and the Nationwide Series.
The Impala was replaced by the Chevrolet Camaro in the Nationwide Series in 2013. In the Sprint Cup Series, Chevrolet drivers used a car based on the Chevrolet SS from 2013 to 2017.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Chevrolet Impala para niños