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The Impala is
mechanically related to the 16th-place Buick LaCrosse (and the
last-place Pontiac Grand Prix) but offers most of the same merits for a
lower price. It rides comfortably and quietly, has a solidly-constructed
interior, offers a large trunk, and did well in crash testing. But it also
shares some of those cars’ faults, such as a relatively compact rear seat,
mediocre gas mileage, and compromised agility. It outranks the roomier and
less-expensive Chevrolet Malibu here for its relative lack of a cheap feel,
but its flaws keep it behind many cars that are roomier and less expensive.
The Impala has a soft,
comfortable, and absorbent ride, though it is prone to some highway-speed
float. It handles safely, but it is larger than most of the other cars in
this group, which does not help its cornering behavior. The steering is
moderately responsive but is too light and lacks feedback. The standard
3.5-liter V6 offers adequate power, and a 3.9-liter V6 and 5.3-liter V8 are
also available (above this price point). The car remains quiet except under
acceleration, when the engine’s rough growl becomes somewhat intrusive. The
car’s weight takes its toll on gas mileage.
Inside, the Impala’s
front bucket seats offer plenty of space on fairly comfortable seats, but
they are too low and flat. A front bench is also offered (pictured), but it
will not realistically hold a third passenger. The rear is well-shaped and
adequately comfortable, though the car has surprisingly little head and leg
space for rear-seat occupants considering its exterior size.
The interior is solidly constructed, much better than Chevrolet's smaller
Malibu, with good panel fit and overall materials. The gauges are clear, and
the instruments are large, well-placed, and easy to use. Drivers sit low,
but comfortably enough, and have good visibility. Entry/exit is easy to the
front, but the shape of the roof and the narrower footwells complicate rear
seat access. The trunk is very large and well-shaped.
The Impala reviewed here
came in at $19,866, about $700 more than the V6 Malibu but not as
well-equipped. Torso-protecting side airbags and stability control are not
offered, but the Impala does include an 8-way power driver’s seat, GM’s
OnStar driver assistance system, a tire-pressure monitor, and automatic
headlights.
Overall,
the Impala offers many of the Buick LaCrosse’s benefits with a bit more
engine noise and a less opulent interior, but with better gas mileage, more
rear-seat space, better safety ratings, and an $1,100 discount. But the
Impala still isn’t cheap, nor is it roomy, fuel-efficient, or agile. It’s a
decent family sedan with a solid feel, but there are more well-rounded
competitors.
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