The world as we know it of the large domestic cars has diminished over the years and the count has been at two—until now. The rebirth of the all-new Chevrolet Impala gives us a third choice. This new option is an excellent choice demonstrating how much Chevrolet has improved its quality and styling.
The all-new, tenth-generation Chevrolet Impala is a major departure from the direction it had fallen to. The 2014 Impala hits the show rooms now with expressive styling loaded with features and content, new levels of safety equipment, improved handling, and power. The new Impala is made from the same platform and gear as the Buick Lacrosse.
The 2014 Chevrolet Impala sedan is available in three trim levels LS ($27,535), LT ($29,785), and LTZ ($34,555). It is currently available with two engines: 4-cylinder 2.5-liter (MPG: City 21/Hwy 31) gasoline and 3.6-liter V6 gasoline (MPG: City 18/Hwy 29). Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Impala is front-wheel drive, assembled in Canada, and also will get a 2.4-liter I4 mild hybrid in the near future.
The styling of the 2014 Impala sedan features a sleek coupe-like design. The bold front-end has a strong resemblance to the new Chevy Camaro. Gone is the old stodgy and bland look; replaced with an upscale, sculptured exterior and interior. The Impala had fallen into the rank and file of a popular fleet and rental vehicle. Chevrolet has decided to limit sales in the fleet and rental market to help increase overall long term value. This car is too beautifully-crafted to be just another car over-populating a car rental parking lot.
The 2014 Chevrolet Impala features high-end luxury design cues familiar on upscale, more expensive European models. The Impala lines favor those of a sports coupe with the roof dramatically sloping into the trunk area. The overall profile is substantial and powerful with hefty hips and dynamic body creases. The 2014 Impala comes standard with projector beam headlights, 18-inch wheels, electric variable-assist power steering, Bluetooth ® and a huge trunk with 18.8-cu.-ft.
The cabin is designed to be quiet and plush thanks to the use of high quality materials. The Impala can be purchased with a wide array of high-tech gadgetry including Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Alert, Navigation, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear vision Camera System, remote vehicle start and motorized screen – CD/MP3 player.
The seats front and back were very comfortable. Driving our test model up to Roseville with four other full-size adults, everyone was comfortable for the entire ride including my Dad who sat on the hump in the middle of the back seat. The massive trunk gave us plenty of room for all of the food that my Mom brought up to my sister’s house. The dash had both an elegant and sporty flare with flowing lines and chrome highlights. The top of the dash has a design reminding me of a stingray wrapping around and projecting over the eight-inch center touch screen.
Room for improvement:
- I couldn’t get the Forward Collision Alert to work; however, it could have been operator error
Cool Features:
- Push-button start
- Four door EZ Key passive entry system
- Second row Skylight with power front sunroof
- Cubby hole area perfect for your phone, and close to a power outlet
The standard safety equipment on the 2014 Impala comes with anti-lock disc brakes, traction and stability control, a 10-airbag system, theft deterrent system, full-speed-range adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera, and rear-park assist.
In Summary – The 2014 Chevrolet Impala provides a fighting chance for Chevrolet to get back in the large car game. It is beautifully designed, powerful, comfortable, handles great, and is full of technology. There may be a battle to convert buyers who remember the lack-luster past versions, but if any model can do it this new Impala definitely has what it takes.
Specifications
2014 Chevrolet Impala LTZ Sedan
Base price: $35,770 as driven: $39,510 (including destination)
Engine: 6-Cyl, 3.6-Liter SIDI V6
Horsepower: 305 @ 6800 RPM
Torque: 264 @ 5300 RPM
Transmission: 6-speed Automatic
Drive: Front Wheel-Drive
Seating: 5-passenger
Turning circle: 38.8 feet
Cargo space: 18.8 cubic feet
Curb weight: 3800 pounds
Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
EPA mileage: City 18/Hwy 28
Wheel Base: 111.7 inches
Warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles powertrain limited
Also consider: Chrysler 300, Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon, and
Hyundai Azera