The Impala is a large, front-wheel-drive sedan
from Chevrolet. Impalas compete with the Ford Taurus, Chrysler 300
and Toyota Avalon. For
2009, all Impala models get antilock brakes, traction control and
side-impact airbags. The
benefits of driving the Impala include its interior space, its
capable transmission, and the performance of the SS. The downsides, however, are the noticeable wind noise at
highway speeds, and the Impala does not have a telescoping steering
wheel. The 2009
Chevy Impala gets a starting MSRP of $23,790 - $29,630, and an EPA
fuel economy of 17
Power
for the Impala
The Impala is available with a few engine
configurations; the base models come standard with a 3.5-liter V-6. The SS gets a 5.3-liter V-8 producing 303 horsepower. All
engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The V-8
has Active Fuel Management, GM's cylinder-deactivation system that
improves fuel economy.
Impala Design for 2009
The Impala is the longest of its competitors
and is 200.4 inches long overall, 72.9 inches wide and 58.7 inches
tall. SS sedans have a distinct look up front, led by a dual-split
grille that contains a black-diamond crosshatch pattern. Almost all
versions get more attractive new wheels for 2009: 17-inchers on some
LTs and 18-inchers on LTZ and SS models.
Drive and Handling
The V-6 engines are smooth when cruising but a
bit harsh under hard acceleration. The SS's 5.3-liter V-8 brings the
2009 Impala sophisticated performance. The SS can reach 60 mph in well under six seconds with
excellent responsiveness at any speed. All three engines run
smoothly through four-speed automatic transmissions. The tighter
tuning of the SS model's FE3 suspension, and the FE1 suspension
that's included with the 3.9-liter engine, brings crisp handling
without much of a ride sacrifice.
Cabin Features for Impala
The Impala may have a rather insignificant
interior design, but it does offer lots of comfort and a large,
accommodating passenger cabin.
The backseat has ample headroom and legroom, along with a
flip-and-fold rear seat that allows access to a covered storage
area. The interior of the 2009 Impala is quiet and well isolated
from road noise. General Motors' OnStar communication system is
standard, and an available Directions and Connections service gives
audio turn-by-turn directions from an OnStar operator. Impalas can
be equipped with one of three audio systems. Base models have a
standard six-speaker MP3/CD stereo. A midlevel system adds an
in-dash six-CD changer, while a Bose system with eight speakers is
also available.
Lineup for the Impala
The LS comes with keyless entry, cruise
control, air conditioning, and a CD sound system. Bluetooth cell
phone connectivity is now also standard on the entire model line.
The LT model adds more popular comfort and convenience equipment.
The top LTZ comes with many of the same features as the LT, plus
dual-zone climate control, upgraded Bose speakers, and an alarm
system. The LTZ also gets a standard FE3 suspension package. XM
Satellite Radio and OnStar turn-by-turn navigation are standard on
all models for 2009, but a screen-based navigation system is not
offered.
Summary
The 2009 Chevrolet Impala is a solid choice for
people needing a sedan with seating for up to six.
The Impala gets five-star frontal ratings and a mix of four-
and five-star ratings in side protection from the federal
government, plus an "acceptable" frontal rating, a "good"
side-impact rating, and a "marginal" rear-impact rating. Impalas
come standard with anti-lock brakes, stability control, and side
curtain airbags, all for an affordable price. Overall, it's
powerful, fuel efficient and roomy. Yet, this sedan still feels
dated compared with class leaders.