2018 Chevrolet Impala

For most, the name Impala evokes the long classic V8 powered 60s Impala. While that era is gone, the new 2018 Chevrolet Impala brings plenty of excitement in a different way. It’s one of the most spacious even among the lengthy full-size sedans. Its cavernous trunk can swallow weekend worth of luggage and it retails for just $28,770 for the base LS trim.

The optional 305 hp V6 borrowed from the Camaro delivers effortless performance and costs a very reasonable $1,000 more than the more efficient but weaker 2.5L I4 engine. The addition of standard amenities like synthetic leather and upgraded infotainment for 2018 Impala has made the deal even sweeter.

With a starting price of $28,770, the 2018 Chevrolet Impala LS is one of the least expensive ways to get a full-size sedan even when equipped with the optional V6 engine (costs almost $1000 more). Next up is the 2018 Impala LT ($31,295) that notably allows you to access optional features like a sunroof. The range-topping Impala Premier ($37,495) gets standard V6 and plenty of upscale features.

Trims	LS	LT	Premier
MSRP	$27,895	$30,220	$27,895
Features	ECOTEC 2.5L DOHC 4-cylinder with Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing, and automatic stop/start 6-speed automatic transmission 10 airbags Keyless Access with Push-Button Start	In addition to or replacing LS features: Remote vehicle starter system 4-way adjustable front-seat head restraints Power-adjustable front passenger lumbar control Dual-zone automatic climate control for driver and passenger	Includes all LT features, plus: 3.6L DOHC V6 with Direct Injection and Variable Valve Timing Perforated leather-appointed seating Rear Park Assist 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat

We Recommend

The LS trim is installed with a number of upgrades like keyless entry and Chevy's MyLink Infotainment system. However, it is recommended to put your money on the LT trim. It opens the door a variety of new features, just make sure to tag in the Driver Assist package as limited vision creates problems at times. 

"The Impala’s best quality is its ride, and that’s not a bad thing. The numbers won’t be impressive, but the performance comes close"- TheCarConnection

Engine and Transmission

The Impala has two engine options. The smaller 197 hp 2.4L Inline-4 produces impressive fuel economy numbers while delivering smooth and adequate performance. This engine is standard on base Impala LS and Impala LT. If you want effortless acceleration, we recommend upgrading to the 305 hp 3.6L V6 that’s standard on top end Impala Premier.

Models	Chevrolet Impala (LS)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
MSRP	$28,770	$33,270	$33,500	$28,495
Engine	ECOTEC 2.5L DOHC 4-cylinder DI	3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6	3.5L V6 DOHC 24-Valve	3.6L V6 24-Valve VVT
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic	CVT Automatic	6-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic
Power	197 hp	300 hp	268 hp	292 hp
Torque	191 lb-ft	261 lb-ft	248 lb-ft	260 lb-ft

Whichever engine you choose, a 6-speed automatic is the only transmission option. The transmission executes smooth shifts and is also willing to downshift when you need more go. Also, 2018 Chevrolet Impala are exclusively Front-Wheel Drive so if you desire an old school Rear-Wheel Drive full-size sedan, check out the Dodge Charger.

Acceleration

The base Chevy Impala with the 197 hp 2.4L Inline-4 does 0-60 in —– seconds. Although that’s not quick enough, this engine delivers adequate power for daily driving. More desirable is the 305 hp 3.6L V6 engine that’s shared with the Camaro.

Models	Chevrolet Impala (LS)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
0-60 MPH	8.7 sec	5.8 sec	6.1 sec	6.4 sec
Quarter mile	14.4 sec @ 88.3 mph	14.3 sec @ 97.7 mph	14.5 sec @ 89.9 mph	14.8 sec @ 94.9 mph
Engine	2.5L	3.5L	3.5L	3.6L
Emission   (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	7.1	7.0	7.4	7.6

An Impala equipped with the V6 can scoot from 0-60 in 6 seconds flat. While this number is impressive, the fact that the Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima, and Dodge Charger can do it faster makes it less impressive.

Ride and Handling

Being a full-size sedan, the Impala’s suspension and steering are tuned more for comfort. Hence it feels cushy and quiet on any type of road at any speed. If you desire this quality, you will be perfectly happy with it. That said, Chevrolet has also managed to inject a bit more sportiness into the steering and suspension.

While the Impala cannot pull out tire smoking antiques like the Rear-Wheel Drive Dodge Charger, it’s more entertaining to drive through high speed sweeping roads with fewer body rolls than the even cushier Toyota Avalon. The excellent outward visibility further reinforces the confidence to tackle turns at high speeds.

Braking

The Chevy Impala comes with — inch brake rotors up front and — inch brake rotors at the back. In a panic braking situation, these brakes can haul this —- pounds large luxury barge to a stop in — feet. The brake pedal is easy to modulate around town but feels slightly soft.

Model	Chevrolet Impala (LS)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
Brake Front(in)	12.6	12.6	11.7	12.6
Brake Rear(in)	12.4	12.1	11.1	12.6
Curb weight(lbs)	3730	3482	3461	3934
60-0 MPH (ft.)	120	125	120	110

“The 2018 Chevrolet Impala is relatively frugal, considering its size, but not as thrifty as others.” – Carconnection

If you need a full-size car with a fuel efficient 4-cylinder engine, the Impala is one of the few offering a 2.5L inline-4 engines. With fuel-saving technologies like start/stop system switching engine off at red lights, the 2.5L Impala delivers 22 mpg in city, 30 mpg on highway and 25 mpg combined.

Model	Chevrolet Impala (LS)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
MPG (city)	22	21	21	19
MPG (highway)	30	30	30	30
MPG (combined)	25	25	24	23

If you decide to spring to the V6, you have to bear considerably less fuel efficiency. The V6 delivers 18 mpg in city, 28 mpg on highway and 22 mpg combined. While lower efficiency is expected from a more powerful engine, competitors with faster V6 engines deliver better fuel efficiency.

“Step inside the Impala’s interior and you’re met with serious square footage, modern design and impressive fit and finish. This full-size sedan seats five comfortably and there’s a generous amount of rear seat legroom. You won’t have any problem carpooling members of the high-school basketball team” – Kelley Blue Book

Seating and Comfort

While the exterior tries to hide the Impalas length, the interior feels as large and spacious as it is. The front seats are spacious and comfortable and offer excellent outward visibility. All the controls fall easily into the hand but the touchscreen requires you to stretch a bit. And although the interior generally features upscale materials, some cheap plastic trims spoils the ambiance.

Model	Chevrolet Impala (Premier)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota Avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Passenger Volume(ft cube)	105.0	98.6	103.6	104.7
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg)   (In.)	39.9/57.9/45.8	39.4/56.7/45	38.5/58.2/42.1	38.6/59.5/41.8
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg)   (In.)	37.4/56.9/39.8	36.7/55.7/34.2	37.9/57/39.2	36.6/57.9/40.1

The rear seats are expansive and three adults will be happy with them even after a long freeway journey. Also, Chevrolet NVH department has done a good job and the cabin stays silent with minimal wind and tire noise. A power sunroof is optional in Impala LT and Impala Premier.

Cargo Capacity

The Chevy Impala boasts a massive 18.8 cubic feet of trunk capacity. That’s impressive even among the full-size cars compared here. That means the boot can swallow weekend worth of luggage of an entire family and still have space to spare.

Model	Chevrolet Impala (Premier)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota Avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
Volume (ft cube)	18.8	14.3	16.0	16.1

Infotainment System

The 2018 Chevrolet Impala now comes standard with

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability.
• You get a 6-speaker audio system
• Three USB ports 
• Satellite radio.

However, for organizing an in-car concert, you can splurge on the optional 11-speaker Bose audio system.

“Chevrolet’s redesign of the Impala in 2014 was largely a success. A dumpy, frumpy body was given a (rightful) viking’s funeral, and what was left from the pyre was a more sculpted, sleeker body with all the right moves.” – Carconnection

After the iconic 60s Impala, this Chevy full-size sedan faded into oblivion with anonymous styling. The current third generation Impala changed that. Sharp creases and tasteful character lines give the new Impala a character of its own. While the sloping roof and fat bonnet also evoke a hint of muscle cars.

Model	Chevrolet Impala (Premier)	Nissan Maxima (S)	Toyota Avalon (XLE)	Dodge Charger (SXT)
Curb Weight(lbs)	3867	3482	3461	3934
Length(in)	201.3	192.8	195.3	198.4
Width(in)	73.0	73.2	72.2	75
Height(in)	58.9	56.5	57.5	58.2
Ground Clearance(in)	7.1	5.3	5.5	4.9
Wheelbase(in)	111.7	109.3	111.0	120.2
Track width(in) F/R	62.2/62.0	62.4/62.4	62.6/62.2	63.4/63.8

18-inch Alloy wheels are standard while swanky 19-inch and 20-inch wheels are on the menu. While the lower Chevy Impala LS and Impala LT get halogen headlamps, the top-end Impala Premier gets HID headlamps.

The 2018 Chevrolet Impala now gets the much needed rearview camera as standard. The 2018 Chevrolet Impala can also be equipped with following advanced active safety features and driver assistance systems:

• Rear cross traffic alert
• Rear Park assist
• Lane change alert
• Blind spot monitoring
• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control

While the list is impressive, it’s worth noting that the Toyota Avalon offers most of these safety features as standard. Some standard safety features of the 2018 Chevrolet Impala are as follows:

• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST)
• Ten airbags – includes driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, rear seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags
• Driver and front passenger Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats
• 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, driver-side Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) and Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (ALR/ELR) on all passenger belts
• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) includes lower anchors and tether anchors on outboard rear seats
• Child-protector rear door locks
• Energy-absorbing collapsible steering column
• Front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones
• Side-impact door beams
• Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) with direct pressure readout and individual tire location alert
• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Anti-theft system with engine immobilizer

NHTSA Safety Rating

The 2018 Chevrolet Impala has received 5-star safety rating from NHTSA.

Overall Rating	5 Star
Overall Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	5 Star
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Driver	5 Star
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Passenger	4 Star
Overall Side Crash Rating	5 Star
Side Barrier Rating overall	5 Star
Side Barrier Rating Driver	4 Star
Side Barrier Rating Passenger	5 Star
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Rating Front Seat	5 Star
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Rating Rear Seat	5 Star
Rollover Rating	4 Star

IIHS Safety rating

However, the 2018 Chevrolet Impala has performed just adequate in IIHS crash test rating. It received “Acceptable” rating for small overlap front driver side crash criterion. On other criterions, the Impala performed well.

Small overlap front driver side	Acceptable
Small overlap front Passenger side	N/A
Moderate overlap front	Good
Side	Good
Roof strength	Good
Head restraints & seats	Good

Toyota Avalon vs Chevrolet Impala

The Toyota Avalon, in essence, is the luxurious full-size sedan rendition of everything Toyota is known for – reliability, hassle-free ownership, great resale value, fuel efficiency and an overall easy to live with characteristics. It’s the bigger brother of Camry so the rear seat comfort is top class. However, most Toyotas are also boring and Avalon is no different. Get the Impala if you prefer to drive.

Nissan Maxima vs Chevrolet Impala

While the Impala does have a hint of aggression, the Maxima goes all out snazzy with its styling. Inside, the Impala offers more room and comfort than the Maxima but the Maxima has a drop-dead gorgeous interior with impeccable material quality. Maxima is also significantly faster and lither around corners. If you drive more often and use rear seats sparingly, the Maxima will impress you more than Impala.

Dodge Charger vs Chevrolet Impala

The Dodge Charger has an air of muscle car menace and Fast and Furious charm around it. While the lower trims are cheaper and less powerful, the $34k Charger R/T with bonnet bulging 370 hp HEMI V8 will quench your lust for a muscle car. The Impala is more suited if you desire a luxury car with just a hint of sportiness.

Among the full-size sedans, the new 2018 Chevrolet Impala is a value for money proposition. However, this does not mean it’s a compromised package. In fact, it has one of the most spacious interiors in the class with seats large and supportive enough to allow a transcontinental trip with full family onboard and a trunk capacious enough to swallow all their luggage.

That transcontinental trip can be made even shorter with the optional V6 engine borrowed from none other than the Camaro. However, the Impala is not as well built as its more expensive Japanese rivals. And the Charger beats it in terms of sportiness. That said, if you are looking for a cozy large luxury car that’s also good to drive on a budget, there are few alternatives.