2015 Chevrolet Impala Video Review
-
This Chevrolet Impala video review includes information about fuel economy, safety, pricing, interior quality, available engines and what it's like to drive. We also let you know how it stacks up with its competitor full-size sedans. For more information, read the 2015 Chevrolet Impala review.
The Chevy Impala is an attractive, well-appointed and fully competitive in its class of full-size sedans. And a big part of that is its interior space. There is an abundance of passenger space front and rear — four 6-footers could do a cross-country road trip in perfect comfort. And the trunk has 18.8 cubic feet. Other than the Ford Taurus, it doesn't really get much better than that in any sedan, period.
As much as the Impala's exterior represents a radical transformation from its predecessor, the interior gets one as well. It's a bit busy in its appearance and the construction isn't as good as that of most rivals, but there are still some high-quality surfaces, distinctive color schemes and an abundance of features.
Many of those are controlled with the optional Chevy MyLink touchscreen. On the one hand, it offers lots of functionality and even customization. On the other, it can be slow to respond to inputs and it's more complicated to use than some other systems — or the old Impala's old-school simple radio controls.
The Impala's only available with front-wheel drive and there are two engines available. The base four-cylinder may be tempting for its lower price and 25 mpg combined, but 195 horsepower isn't a lot to get such a big, heavy sedan moving. The available 305-hp V6 is more than up to the challenge and gets the Impala from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. It's the one we'd recommend.
As long as you skip the big 20-inch wheels, the Impala offers a cushy ride and a pleasingly quiet cabin. The handling is doughy, though, and although it feels perfectly planted, this doesn't provide the same degree of driver engagement as a Chrysler 300 and especially Chevy's own SS.
The Impala has a hefty amount of standard safety equipment that helps it earn the best possible crash ratings from the government and the IIHS. It is also available with collision avoidance and mitigation technologies.
The Impala is also one of the least expensive midsize sedans, starting in the mid-$20Ks. You can load it up to about $40,000, and although it comes with full-on luxury equipment, we don't think it has the refinement and build quality to warrant that type of money. A well-equipped midlevel LT trim would probably be your best bet.
Among full-size sedans, our top-rated choice is the well-rounded and well-made Toyota Avalon. Besides the 300 and SS, we also recommend the Dodge Charger for those looking for some performance, or the Kia Cadenza and Hyundai Azera for those seeking comfort, space and value.
Really, this big Chevy lines up most closely with those, but ultimately, don't let that crummy old Impala you rented four years ago persuade you. This one is worth a chance.
- See the Full 2015 Chevrolet Impala Review
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
