The Chevrolet Impala is an affordable large car that started in the 1950s and ended production in 2020.
It offers a huge interior, a spacious trunk, and a smooth ride.
In this article, we’ll be analyzing all of the best and worst model years of the Impala.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Impala Are:
The best Chevrolet Impala model years are 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2013, and 2012. The worst model years of this model are 2009, 2010, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2014, and 2011. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Impala?
2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017 Chevrolet Impala
The 2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017 Impalas are the final models ever produced – they have received strong reviews and have they are the most advanced models.
They offer a smooth and quiet ride, tons of passenger and cargo space, and a competent V6 engine.
There are a total of 3 trim levels: LS, LT, and Premier.
The LS and LT come standard with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (197 horsepower) while the range-topping Premier is fitted with a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine (305 horsepower).
Both variations are matched to a 6-speed automatic transmission with power delivered to the front wheels.
Notable safety features include the following:
- Lane Change Alert
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Forward Collision Alert
These models were also able to secure a perfect 5-star rating from the NHTSA (based on crash tests and simulations).
2020 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 76 / 100
2019 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 86 / 100
2018 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 82 / 100
2017 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 82 / 100
2019 Impala, Edmunds Review:
“The Impala is one of my top favorites and accordingly I own one. Cabin room and seating comfort is superb. Ease of steering effort is optimal and handling ranks with the best rivaling some sports oriented sedans. V6 acceleration is very powerful and braking is competitive…”
2016 and 2015 Chevrolet Impala
The 2016 and 2015 Impala models are the second and third installments of the 10th generation.
They have a sleek, feature-rich cabin, a huge backseat, spacious trunk, and fantastic crash test scores.
New for these models are Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, 4G data connection, and WiFi hotspot capability.
There are 3 main trims: LS, LT, and LTZ.
According to the EPA, all 3 trim levels can achieve approximately 25 MPG for combined city and highway driving, which is commendable for its segment.
Both models also received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
Based on reviews online, these are the highlights of these models:
- Appearance
- Comfort
- Engine power
- Fuel efficiency
- Spaciousness
- Driving experience
- Safety
- Ride quality
2016 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 85 / 100
2015 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 84 / 100
2015 Impala, Edmunds Review:
“Replaced a 2014 Lexus ES 350 with this Impala and I am shocked how superior this car is to the Lexus in seat comfort, ride isolation, hushed quietness, control design, navigation and many other areas…”
2013 and 2012 Chevrolet Impala
The 2013 and 2012 Impala model years are the last 2 ninth-gen models produced.
Despite their somewhat outdated exterior and interior styling, these vehicles are great picks for their simple controls, large trunk, and efficient yet powerful engine.
New for these models are the following:
- All-new 3.6-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission
- Revised front and rear styling
- Bluetooth and leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard
- New appearance packages
There are 3 trim levels: LS, LT, and LTZ.
All trims are fitted with a massive 3.6-liter V6 engine (300 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission on a front wheel drive.
According to the EPA, fuel economy pegged at 22 MPG for combined city and highway driving, rivaling most of the top competitors in its segment.
2013 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 75 / 100
2012 Chevrolet Impala:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 78 / 100
2012 Impala, Edmunds Review:
“If you need something to change in every year of a car, then this isn’t the car for you. If however, you want a safe, comfortable and reliable car, this is it. It has many creature comforts from heated seats to satellite radio and sync. We are getting 30 mpg with the new engine and transmission…”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Impala Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | J.D. Power Consumer Rating |
| 2020 Chevrolet Impala | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Impala | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Impala | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Impala | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Impala | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Impala | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Impala | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 75 / 100 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Impala | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
Related: 8 Full-Size Cars With the Most Trunk Space (With Pictures)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Impala?
2009 and 2010 Chevrolet Impala
The 2009 and 2010 model years were very problematic due to a number of different reasons.
First, owners complained about a defective airbag system, indicating that the airbag warning indicator would flash intermittently.
If the warning indicator of the airbag is on, this means that there is most likely a defect in the airbags themselves, making it dangerous to drive as airbags might not deploy when needed (such as in accidents or collisions).
“The service airbag light is on and stays on.” – CarProblemZoo.com
Second, these models would sometimes limit or cap the speed, with a popup message saying “engine power reduced.”
This is a common occurrence if the vehicle’s on-board computer detects an issue or defect in one of the major systems or components of the car.
“My car has started slowing down abruptly and displaying engine power has been reduced at random times, but has become more frequent. It still is happening and when on the interstate, it is so dangerous to slow down with no warning because you can get rear ended quite easily…” – CarProblemZoo.com
Third, owners frequently reported violent engine shaking or vibration, accompanied by spikes in RPM and certain warning indicators flashing.
“The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the front-end of the vehicle would lower and the front end was unstable. In addition, the check engine warning light would remain illuminated…” – CarProblemZoo.com
Finally, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC) or Stabilitrak, and the anti-lock braking system (ABS) would come on while driving. This has led to either vehicle stalling or speed capping.
“Started driving, the car wouldn’t go over 5 mph. Engine shakes violently. Display reads reduced engine power. Traction control warning.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2009 Impala had a total of 194 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 1,301 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2010 Impala had a total of 112 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 704 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Noise in the dash
- Transmission failure
- Premature tire wear
- Car will not move
- Rough shifting
2000 to 2008 Chevrolet Impala
The 2000 to 2008 Impala models should be avoided at all costs.
Problems have been so severe and widespread for these models that CarComplaints.com gave these models the demerit of “Beware of the Clunker” and “Avoid Like the Plague.”
There were numerous reports that talked about smoke coming from under the hood.
Upon further inspection, it was discovered that the smoke and flames originated from the engine manifold and head gasket.
Numerous recall campaigns were issued to rectify the situation but not all owners were able to receive timely servicing.
“While the vehicle was stationary, the intake manifold leaked fuel and released vapors. The intake manifold was replaced two years prior by a certified mechanic, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that the intake manifold was fractured. In addition, the intake manifold exploded and caused a fire…” – CarProblemZoo.com
Various electrical systems also failed while driving. The most commonly reported issues include the following:
- Trunk popping open all of a sudden
- Traction control failure
- ABS failure
- Locking/unlocking on its own
- Vehicle not starting
- Vehicle stalling
- Display flickering
- Instrument panel lights flickering
- Passlock security activating unintentionally
“Car randomly locks me out for 10 minutes, this should be a recall. These cars are [expletive]. Constantly leaves me stranded. Passlock security code, security light flashes for 10 minutes.” – CarProblemZoo.com
In addition, there were numerous owners that talked about power steering issues.
“ … Consumer writes in regards to vehicle stops and steering locks up while driving. The consumer stated the vehicle stalled while at a stop sign. The manifold gasket, thermostat, abs module and ignition were replaced over a period of eight years.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2000 Impala had a total of 461 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 900 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2001 Impala had a total of 475 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 827 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2002 Impala had a total of 827 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 904 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2003 Impala had a total of 430 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 825 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2004 Impala had a total of 740 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 1,237 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2005 Impala had a total of 394 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 728 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2006 Impala had a total of 236 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 727 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2007 Impala had a total of 211 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 815 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Impala had a total of 246 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 1,128 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Stalls, shuts down while driving
- Passlock problem
- Security light is on
- Intake manifold gasket failure
- Coolant leakage
- Engine will not turn over
- Transmission slipping
- Speedometer malfunctioning
- Rough, hard shifting
- Blown head gasket
- Bad odor originating from vents
- Head gasket leaking
- Excessive oil consumption
- Premature tire wear
- Power locks malfunctioning
2014 Chevrolet Impala
Owners of the 2014 Impala suffered due to the problems that plagued the previously discussed model years.
The most frequently reported issue is various electrical system failures, particularly with safety and driver assistance features.
Affected systems include the following:
- Stabilitrak
- ABS
- Traction control
- Turn signals
- Side detection
- Gauges
- Power steering
“I was driving in a snowstorm and all of the sudden the abs, Stabilitrak, and power steering went out. I’m frustrated that this is the 2nd electrical safety issue that I have experienced. Both of which have been reported by several drivers and still no recalls.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2014 Impala had a total of 130 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 917 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Rear side detection system failure
- Brake failure
- Headlights not bright enough
2014 Chevrolet Impala
2011 Chevrolet Impala
While there was some carryover of problems from the previous model years, the 2011 Impala was slightly less problematic than its direct predecessors (but still had a lot of headache-inducing issues).
The most significant and frequently reported issue is electrical problems.
A unique issue that this model year had, on the other hand, was seating issues.
Specifically, owners (and passengers) complained heavily about visibility issues due to overly large headrests on the rear seats.
“Cannot see out of the rear window due to obstructions from rear seat headrests.” – CarProblemZoo.com
- The 2011 Impala had a total of 107 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 789 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Engine loses power while driving
- Loud ticking noise
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Chevrolet Impala | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Impala | 1 | 23 | 1 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Impala | 7 | 67 | 1 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Impala | 9 | 117 | 0 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Impala | 14 | 166 | 0 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Impala | 39 | 396 | 3 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Impala | 139 | 917 | 12 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Impala | 75 | 446 | 1 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Impala | 77 | 405 | 3 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Impala | 107 | 789 | 2 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Impala | 112 | 704 | 4 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 194 | 1,301 | 5 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 246 | 1,128 | 2 |
| 2007 Chevrolet Impala | 211 | 815 | 3 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Impala | 236 | 727 | 2 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Impala | 394 | 728 | 4 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Impala | 740 | 1,237 | 7 |
| 2003 Chevrolet Impala | 430 | 825 | 8 |
| 2002 Chevrolet Impala | 827 | 904 | 7 |
| 2001 Chevrolet Impala | 475 | 827 | 10 |
| 2000 Chevrolet Impala | 461 | 900 | 10 |
What Problems Do Chevrolet Impala Have?
- Rough shifting
- Passlock problem
- Vehicle will not start
- Security light on
- Intake manifold gasket failure
- Coolant leakage
- Transmission failure
- Stalls while driving
- Transmission slipping
- Speedometer malfunctioning
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Impala?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Kia Cadenza | 8.7 | $25,835 – $34,313 | City: 20 /Highway: 28 |
| Chevrolet Impala | 8.3 | $24,836 – $28,334 | City: 19 /Highway: 28 |
| Dodge Charger | 8.2 | $26,647 – $70,505 | City: 12 – 19 /Highway: 21 – 30 |
| Toyota Avalon | 8.2 | $30,882 – $36,537 | City: 22 /Highway: 31 – 32 |
| Nissan Maxima | 8.1 | $25,441 – $30,891 | City: 20 /Highway: 30 |
| Chrysler 300 | 8.0 | $24,887 – $32,847 | City: 16 – 19 /Highway: 25 – 30 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/impala
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/impala
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/impala/2020/review/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/impala/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2020/chevrolet/impala
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Impala/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/impala/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-impala/recalls/
