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One of America's most popular and long-lasting sedans, the Chevrolet Impala can be an excellent companion...depending on which one you buy.
When the Chevrolet Impala debuted in 1958 as the top-line of the Bel Air 2-door models, it hit all the right notes with buyers. The Impalas accounted for 15 percent of Chevrolet's total production for 1958. Until it was discontinued in 2020, the Impala was a very popular full-size car that sold well for most of its 10-generation production run.
Although it has had its fair share of issues, the Impala has impressed in spaciousness, capable engine options, and ride comfort. Generally, it has an above-average reliability rating, and there are many fine models out there to choose from. With proper and regular maintenance, the Impala will run for 150,000 or more miles before it needs any major repairs. Nonetheless, the evolution of the Impala hasn't been rosy all the way - there are some model years, especially those from the early 2000s, that you should avoid. So, here's a ranking of the ten best Chevrolet Impala models to buy used.
Although the 2010 Impala's handling is sluggish compared to class rivals, that's the trade-off for the smooth ride that makes the large sedan desirable. With the SS model discontinued, only two efficient, responsive, and dependable V6 power units were offered to motivate the 2010 Impala.
J.D. Power gave it a great reliability rating of 86, which means that it can last for 150,000 miles before needing any major repairs. Over the years, the 2010 Impala has been recalled four times over issues with the seatbelt assembly, ignition switch, and the lower control arms.
According to Repairpal, the most common issues with the 2008 Impala include leaky intake manifold gasket, erratic shifting, jolting while driving, and stuck ignition key. Nevertheless, it is a good car that performed well in NHTSA crash tests and can last up to 200,000 miles when treated well.
Also worthy of note is that it has only been recalled twice, once over issues with the ignition switch and once over faulty lower control arms. The 2008 Impala is popular, spacious, comfortable, and adequately powered by three powerful and efficient engine choices, including a 303 hp V8 unit that takes the SS model to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.
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Refreshed for the 2012 model year, the Impala gained more standard features while still delivering a comfortable ride in a spacious cabin. It also became more powerful, thanks to a new velvety-smooth V6 mill making 300 hp. It was hooked to a new 6-speed automatic that provided smooth gearchanges.
Despite a better than average reliability rating, it has been recalled three times over faults with the ignition switch, power steering hose, and lower control arms. The 2012 Impala is a sturdy car that rewards the owner with a life expectancy of up to 200,000 miles, depending on how well it is maintained.
When the Impala SS first arrived for the 1961 model year, it could be optioned on any 1961 Impala model, including station wagons and 4-door sedans. At the top of the engine lineup for the SS package was a new 409 c.i. (6.7-liter) V8 good for 360 hp and 409 lb-ft of torque.
Hooked to a 4-speed manual transmission, it took the Impala SS to 60 mph in a swift 6.7 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 15.2 seconds. Built like a tank, the legendary 1961 SS 409 featured a reinforced chassis wit a firmer suspension, power steering and power brakes.
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The Impala SS (Super Sport), first offered from 1961 to 1969, was resurrected as a newer version from 1994 until it was discontinued after 1996. Based on the Chevrolet Caprice cop car, the new SS got a sport-tuned suspension, LT1 5.7-liter V8, 4-wheel disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, and a transmission cooler.
For 1996, the 260 hp V8 engine got an OBD-II computer control system and could launch the SS to 60 mph in 7 seconds. Furthermore, these SS models were built not only to deliver driving fun but also to last for a long time.
With car manufacturers battling for drag strip dominance, Chevrolet offered a special package on the 1963 Impala to compete against the big drag cars from Ford and Plymouth/Dodge. Created for drag racers and NASCAR enthusiasts, the Z11 boasted several lightweight body parts and came without nonessential equipment like radios, heaters, and sound-deadening materials.
Under the hood, it gained a monstrous 427 V8 power plant tuned to crank out a whopping 430 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. Tough, reliable, and fast, it could hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and clear the quarter-mile in a blistering 10.8 seconds.
RELATED: The Legendary Chevrolet Impala SS Returns In This Modern Render
Before it returned in 1994, the Impala SS was last offered in 1969, and it was a magnificent machine available only as the SS 427. That big block was available in two versions, the most powerful being the L72 version with 390 hp.
The massive mill moved this Impala out with gusto, making for exciting rides in the comfortable car. Boasting better suspension and brakes, the 1969 SS 427 was a well-rounded big muscle car.
The 2018 Chevrolet Impala is a solid and well-equipped choice of transport for a buyer looking for an affordable family car. Besides shining in terms of cabin room and cargo space, it also features a user-friendly MyLink infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and navigation.
Tuned for comfort, it delivers a comfortable and quiet ride, composed handling, and an optional 305 hp V6 engine for strong and effortless acceleration. Although it has a sub-par reliability rating, the 2018 Impala boasts a high safety rating and has only been recalled once.
RELATED: This Is The Best Feature Of The 1967 Chevy Impala
For 2016, the Impala lineup was cut down to 4 trims powered by a 196 hp 2.5-liter I4 or an available 305 hp 3.6-liter V6. Although it has an average reliability score, the 2016 Impala is a solid car that will give you value for your money.
It boasts a large cargo hold, a roomy/comfortable cabin, and tech features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless device charging. Apart from the fact that very few owners have complained about it, there haven't been any safety recalls for the 2016 Impala so far.
For its last model year, the Impala boasted several good attributes that made it one of the best large cars for the money. It offers a spacious cabin, large trunk, supple ride, and an easy-to-use infotainment system with wireless connectivity, navigation, and an available 11-speaker premium Bose stereo system.
The sole powertrain, a 305 hp 3.6-liter V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, has no trouble getting the large sedan up to speed. Furthermore, it has a great J. D. Power reliability rating, a high NHTSA safety rating, and has not yet been recalled over any issue.
Jay Moren is a car enthusiast who loves everything with an engine. When he's not writing about cars, he plays the saxophone and keyboard. He also plays as a goalkeeper for a non-league side in his native Nigeria