Chevrolet Impala Review

U.S. automakers are clearly in the midst of a bona fide ren­aissance. In recent years, we've seen a number of redesigned American models deliver world-class performance in our tests, including the Chry­s­ler 300, Ford Escape and Fusion, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, which has positioned them near the top of their class­es. But the most dramatic turnaround yet is the phoenixlike rise of the revamped Chevrolet Impala.

Chevy's large sedan is now based on the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS platform. It has been transformed from a woefully uncompetitive and outdated model that was to be avoided even as a free upgrade at the rental-car counter into a thoroughly modern and remarkably enjoyable vehicle. It has gone from lingering at the bottom of its class in our Ratings, with a mediocre score of 63—too low to be recommended—to a stellar 95 that places it not only at the top of its category but also among the top-rated vehicles we've tested overall.

This new Impala rides like a luxury sedan, with a cushy and controlled demeanor, while delivering surprisingly agile handling, capable acceleration, and excellent braking. Inside, the spacious cabin sets a new standard for Chevrolet fit and finish, with generally high-quality materials and trim. The backseat is roomy and comfortable, the trunk is huge, and controls are refreshingly intuitive and easy to use. Overall, the Impala is competitive with cars that cost $20,000 more, including the Acura RLX and Jaguar XF. One of our testers, not known for effusive praise, said, "There's little the Impala doesn't do well."

OK, the 22 mpg we measured with the Impala's 3.6-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission is competitive, but it's not the best in its class. And the rear visibility is rather limited, which is particularly disturbing when backing up in a crowded parking lot. Despite its high test score, this Impala is too new for us to have reliability data, so we can't recommend it.

The Impala corners quite well for a large car, with prompt turn-in response and controlled body lean. Steering is nicely weighted; it's light enough for parking maneuvers and provides decent feedback. When pushed to its handling limits, the Impala proved secure, responsive, balanced, and easy to control.

You'll find that the cabin has a solid, almost vaultlike atmosphere that keeps most ambient noise out. And the absorbent suspension muffles bumps and keeps the body settled for a serene highway ride.

The 305-hp V6 delivers ample power, but it requires some revving to get this big car moving. The six-speed automatic trans­-mis­sion shifts smoothly, but it can sometimes be slow to downshift. A smaller 2.5- liter four-­cylinder and a 2.4-liter four with GM's ­eAssist hybrid system are coming later. Based on our results with the LaCrosse, we expect about 26 mpg from the eAssist engine, good but not outstanding.

Inside, our LTZ version feels upscale and appealing. The big front seats are roomy and plush, and they provide plenty of adjustments. With lots of room and a wide range of steering-wheel adjustment, the driving position is accommodating.

Two adults will be very comfortable in the Impala's roomy, supportive rear seat, although the center tunnel consumes leg and foot room in the middle position.

Rear visibility is the biggest liability because of a high rear deck and short rear window. A rear camera should be on all models but is standard only with the top LTZ trim. LT buyers can get one only as part of a $940 convenience package.

Backlit gauges are large and easy to read, and most controls are straightforward. The MyLink radio interface is simple enough for even a digital neophyte. Menus are clear, with big virtual buttons and large fonts. Working through basic functions is easy, and selectable layout options further simplify things. More tech-savvy users can dig deeper, where they'll find more complicated pages. Those pages let you use swiping motions to move through lists or cycle through presets, but they require just the right touch, which can be hard and distracting while driving. Onboard computer functions can be changed through the steering wheel.

Pairing a phone via Bluetooth is quick and easy. Voice commands, which work very well, can be used to place calls, enter destinations, and control a mobile device connected through a USB cable. An integrated Pandora app provides an easy and familiar interface; using the app with an iPhone requires tethering with a USB cord.

The trunk is nicely finished and has a hidden storage bin under its floor.

Best version to get. Attractively priced, the LT trim has plenty of features. But once you add options such as a sunroof and 19-inch tires, the top-trim LTZ becomes the better deal. One such option, standard on the LTZ, is the $890 Advanced Safety Package, which includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. And given the limited rear visibility, we'd get it.