Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet Impala
1958 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop Coupe
Overview
Manufacturer	Chevrolet
Production	1957–1985 1993–1996 1999–present
Model years	1958–1985 1994–1996 2000–present
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size

The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size automobile built by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. The Impala became the best-selling automobile in the United States when full size models dominated the market and competed against the Ford Galaxie 500 and the Plymouth Fury. From 1958 until 1965, it was Chevrolet's most expensive passenger model. After reaching its sales peak, Chevrolet introduced the Caprice in 1965. The Impala was then positioned down one trim level but still above the economical models Bel Air and Biscayne, and remained the most popular full size Chevrolet model through the mid-eighties. The Impala, named after the southern African antelope, is most readily distinguished by having three sets of taillights featured for many years. The Impala SS nameplate was introduced in 1961 and continued through 1969; was revived in 1994 through 1996, and revived again for the 2004-2009 model years. The Impala nameplate is currently being used for the front-wheel-drive model since 2000.

History

Origin and sales

The Impala name was first used for the full-sized 1956 General Motors Motorama show car that bore Corvette-esque design cues, especially the grille. Painted emerald green metallic, with a white interior, the Impala featured hardtop styling. It is not known to have survived.Ed Cole, Chevrolet's chief engineer in the late 1950s, defined the Impala as a "prestige car within the reach of the average American citizen." From 1958 through 1996, Impala sales were in excess of 13 million, more than any other full-size car in the history of the automobile. The 1964 model year sales of 1,074,925 units (Impala & Impala SS) in the U.S. still stands as a record. 1965 wasn't far behind with 1,046,500 units. In 2008, Impala was the 6th best selling car in the United States and had the distinction of being the top selling American nameplate sedan, according to Reuters Top 20 Best-selling Vehicles Scorecard.

First generation (1958)

First generation
1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible 1958 Chevrolet Impala Convertible
Overview
Production	1958
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door convertible 2-door hardtop
Layout	FR layout
Related	Chevrolet Bel Air, Chevrolet Biscayne, Chevrolet Brookwood, Chevrolet Nomad, Chevrolet Parkwood
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto CID Blue Flame I6 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID W-series Turbo Thrust V8

File:58 Impala.jpg

1958 Impala Hardtop Coupe

The Impala was introduced in 1958 as a new, upmarket, sporty trim package created for Bel Air coupes and convertibles. Unique to the model were its six taillights, which set it apart from lower trim levels with only two lights on a side. This classic styling cue would become its trademark.

Second generation (1959–1960)

Second generation
1959 Chevrolet Impala Convertible
Overview
Model years	1959-1960
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door convertible 2-door coupe 2-door hardtop 4-door hardtop 4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout
Related	Chevrolet Bel Air, Chevrolet Biscayne, Chevrolet Nomad, Chevrolet Brookwood, Chevrolet Parkwood, Chevrolet El Camino
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto CID Blue Flame I6 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID W-series Turbo Thrust V8

1959 Impala Hardtop Coupe

The Impala became a separate model in 1959 in two-door convertible, two-door coupe, two-door hardtop, four-door sedan, and four-door hardtop versions and became the best-selling car in the Chevrolet lineup. The Impala featured body-on-frame construction, using the "X" frame used on other Chevys, as well as Cadillac. The exception for the six-taillight styling was the 1959 model, which used the "teardrop" taillight shape as all other Chevy models had. For 1960, the styling was revised with more conventional styling with the trademark triple taillights reinstated, and would remain consecutively through 1985. It became the best-selling automobile in the United States and held that position for the next decade. Chevrolet now based their best wagon, the Nomad, on its top-line four-door Impala.

Third generation (1961–1964)

Third generation
1961 Chevrolet Impala Convertible
Overview
Production	1960-1964
Model years	1961-1964
Assembly	Arlington, Texas
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door convertible 2-door coupe 2-door hardtop 4-door hardtop 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Platform	B-body
Related	Chevrolet Bel Air Chevrolet Biscayne
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto CID Turbo Thrift I6 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID W-series Turbo Thrust V8 427 (7.0 L)Z11 V8 '63 only

1961 Impala Hardtop Coupe

The Impala was restyled on the existing GM B platform for 1961. The new body styling was more trim and boxy than the 1958-60 models. Sport Coupe models featured a "bubbleback" roof line style for '61, and a unique model, the 2-door pillared sedan, was available for 1961 only. It was rarely ordered and a scarce collectible today. The rare Super Sport (SS) option debuted for 1961. This was also the last year the top station wagon model would bear the Nomad name.

The 1962 model featured new "C" pillar styling for all models except the 4-door hardtop "Sport Sedan." Sport Coupe models now featured the "convertible roof" styling, shared with other GM "B" full-size hardtop coupes. This style proved extremely popular, and contributed to the desirability of the '62-'64 Impalas as collectibles. The "overhang" roof style of the sedans was replaced with a more attractive, wider "C" pillar with wraparound rear window. Engine choices for '62 settled down, the 348-cubic-inch (5.7 L) V8 discontinued and replaced by the 340 brake horsepower (250 kW) 409-cubic-inch (6.7 L), which could be ordered with any transmission. The small-block 283 was enlarged to 327 cubic inches (5.4 L), which added more engine choices for small-block fans. The Beach Boys produced a hit single, "409," referring to the Chevy, which became an iconic song for these cars. Impalas again featured premium interior appointments, plusher seats, and more chrome trim outside, including a full-width aluminum-and-chrome panel to house the triple-unit taillight assembly. Super Sport (SS) models featured that panel in a special engine-turned aluminum, which was also used to fill the side moldings, making the SS more distinctive in appearance. Impala also gains the top station wagon after the Nomad is gone. Due to reliability problems, the optional Turboglide automatic transmission was discontinued, leaving Powerglide the only autobox available until 1965.

1963 Impala Hardtop Sedan

Among collectors, the 1963 Impala is the most popular for its body style, even though it was almost mechanically identical to the 1962 Impala. The 1963 Impala's distinctive body style has crisp lines with pointed front and rear fenders which emphasize the long, low style of car design popular in the early 1960s. The rear taillight panel was aluminum, and was surrounded by a chrome border with the engine-turned surface on SS models. Engine choice was similar to '62, with the small-block 283-cubic-inch (4.6 L) and 327-cubic-inch (5.4 L) V8s the most popular choices. The Sport Sedan featured a new, creased roof line that proved popular. A new "coved" instrument panel was good-looking, but replaced the temperature gauge with "idiot lights" for hot and cold engine conditions. An optional factory tachometer was built into the dash, just above the steering wheel. It was rarely ordered, but gave the Super Sport models an extra feel of sportiness.

For 1964, the Impala was slightly restyled, reverting to a more rounded, softer look. Out back, the signature taillight assembly had an "upside-down U" shaped aluminum trim strip above the taillights, but the lights themselves were surrounded by a body-colored panel. The 409-cubic-inch (6.7 L) returned as the big-block option, but the 4X2 carburetor setup was no longer on the option list. SS models continued to feature the engine-turned aluminum trim. Rooflines were carried over from '63 unchanged. The 1964 model has been praised by West Coast rap groups since the early 1990s, with endorsers such as Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, Skee-Lo and The Game among many others.

Right hand drive cars were made at GM's Oshawa plant in Canada and often shipped overseas in kit form for assembly in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. The RHD cars - Chevy or equivalent Pontiac (built on Chevrolet frames and using Chevy engines in Canada - all used a RHD version of the LHD 1961 Pontiac dashboard.

Fourth generation (1965–1970)

Fourth generation
File:65 Caprice.jpg 1965 Chevrolet Impala Caprice 4 door hardtop
Overview
Production	1964-1970
Model years	1965-1970
Assembly	Arlington Texas, Atlanta Georgia, South Gate California, Flint Michigan, Framingham Massachusetts, Janesville Wisconsin, Van Nuys California, Norwood Ohio, St. Louis Missouri, Tarrytown New York, Lordstown Ohio, Wilmington Delaware, Oshawa Ontario, Sainte-Thérèse Quebec
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door convertible 2-door coupe 2-door hardtop 4-door hardtop 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Platform	B-body
Related	Chevrolet Caprice, Chevrolet Bel Air, Chevrolet Biscayne
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto CID Turbo Thrift I6 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo-Jet V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo-Jet V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo-Jet V8

1966 Impala SS Convertible

Totally redesigned in 1965, the Impala set an all-time industry annual sales record of more than 1 million units in the U.S., which has never been bettered. All new full-size Chevys eschewed the "X" frame for a full-width perimeter frame, a new body which featured curved, frameless side glass (for pillarless models), sharper angled windshield with newly-reshaped vent windows, and redesigned full-coil suspension. In 1965, Chevrolet introduced the Impala Caprice. Beginning with the four-door hardtop sedan body, Impala Caprices received unique upholstery, wood grained accents on the dashboard and specialty pulls on the insides of the doors. The Caprice Custom was reintroduced as the Chevrolet Caprice in 1966, taking the top position in the full-size Chevrolet lineup.

Engine choices included the inline six-cylinder as well as the famous Chevy small-block and big-block V8s. Automatic buyers were given the option of the newly-introduced three-range Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission for the newly-introduced Mark IV big-block engine, displacing 396 cubic inches. The old 409-cubic-inch (6.7 L) "W" engine was discontinued early in the 1965 model year, so early-production '65s got the 409, as well as 1/10th of 1% had the 396 CID big-block. Moreover, other later-built cars had the 396-cubic-inch (6.5 L) as the big-block option with significant horsepower drawback. Two-range Powerglide, as well as Synchro-Mesh 3- and 4-speed manual transmissions were available. As with previous years, Impalas featured more chrome trim inside and out, with pleated tufted upholstery and door panels.The Impala would be the #2-selling convertible in the U.S. in 1966, with 38,000 sold; it was beaten by the Mustang by almost 2:1.

1969 Impala Custom Coupe

The 1967 model was redesigned with enhanced Coke bottle styling. The curves were the most pronounced with the 1967-68 models. In keeping with federal regulations, safety features were built into Impalas during the 1967 and 1968 model years, including a fully collapsible energy-absorbing steering column, side marker lights, and shoulder belts for closed models. During the 1969 model year Impala production topped Caprice production by 611,000 units. The car is used in the Supernatural (TV series).

Right Hand Drive cars were manufactured in Canada for export to some countries such as Australia, UK, etc., until 1969. They used a version of the 1965 Impala dash panel until 1969. Australian models were assembled in Australia from kits as this lessened tax on the cars. A similar arrangement applied in New Zealand although the bodies were supplied from Canada already welded, painted and trimmed.

Impala SS (1961–1969)

1963 Impala SS Hardtop Coupe

File:64 Impala SS.jpg

1964 Impala SS Hardtop Coupe

In 1961, the Impala SS (Super Sport) was introduced to the market. The SS badge was to become Chevrolet's signature of performance on many models, though it sometimes has been an appearance package only. The Impala's SS package in 1961 was truly a performance package, beginning with the 348-cubic-inch (5.7 L) V8 engines available with 305 brake horsepower (227 kW), 340 brake horsepower (250 kW), and 350 brake horsepower (260 kW) or the new 409-cubic-inch (6.7 L) V8, which was available with up to 425 brake horsepower (317 kW). The package also included upgraded tires on station wagon wheels, springs, shocks and special sintered metallic brake linings.

Starting in 1962, the Impala SS could be had with any engine available in the Impala, down to the 235-cubic-inch (3.9 L), 135 brake horsepower (101 kW) inline-6. With one exception, from this point until 1969, the SS was an appearance package only, though the heavy-duty parts and big engines could still be ordered. From 1962-on, Super Sports were limited to the hardtop coupe and convertible coupe exclusively. The Super Sport package was known by Regular Production Option (RPO) Z03, from 1962–63, and again in 1968. 1962-64 Super Sports came with engine-turned aluminum trim, which was replaced by a "blackout" trim strip in '65 which ran under the taillights. "Super Sport" script replaced the "Impala SS" badges in 1965 and 1966. The exception was the Z24 option package available in combination with the standard Z03 Super Sport package.

File:65 Impala SS convt.jpg

1965 Impala SS Convertible

1968 Impala SS Sport Coupe

Starting in 1967 and continuing through 1969, buyers of Impala Z24s got cars badged as "SS427" models. The SS427 included a heavy-duty suspension and other performance goodies, as well as a Turbo-Jet 427-cubic-inch (7.0 L) V8 in either L36 (385 brake horsepower (287 kW) in 1967-1968, 390 brake horsepower (290 kW) in 1969) or L72 (425 brake horsepower (317 kW)) in 1968-1969. Special SS427 badging, inside and out, was the rule, but few were sold since muscle car enthusiasts were looking toward big-block intermediates such as the Chevelle SS396 and Plymouth Road Runner, which were lighter and faster off the line. In 1968 only, Z24s could be ordered without the Z03 SS package, which meant SS427 equipment but no bucket seats or center console. The Impala SS could be identified by "SS" emblems on the rear fenders and trunk lid. The Impala SS became its own series (separate model rather than an option package) for 1964.

In 1968, the Impala SS once again became an option package. 1967 and 1968 SS427s got a special domed hood and body emblems, and the 1968 model featured "gills" on the front fenders in front of the wheel openings. The 427 cu in V8 was available on all Caprice and Impala models (including non-SS cars), and even the Bel Air and Biscayne price-leaders.

In 1969, the Impala SS was available only as the Z24 (SS427), coming exclusively with a 427-cubic-inch (7.0 L) V8 of 335 brake horsepower (250 kW), 390 brake horsepower (290 kW), or 425 brake horsepower (317 kW). This was the final year for the Impala SS until 1994. Those 1969 Impala SS cars were often considered "sleepers" in that there was no distinctive SS badging inside the car (again there was no Z03 offered that year), and a true 1969 Z24-optioned car is the rarest and most collectible of the SS427 years. 1969 was the last year that the Impala SS was offered with the Z24 package, but the only year in which front disc brakes and 15-inch (380 mm) wheels were standard; that made the 1969 SS427 mechanically better than the previous versions in standard form. Although the 427 was replaced by the 454-cubic-inch (7.4 L) Turbo-Jet V8 in 1970, the SS option was gone.

Fifth generation (1971–1976)

Fifth generation
File:72 Impala convt.jpg 1972 Chevrolet Impala Convertible
Overview
Production	1970-1976
Model years	1971-1976
Assembly	Arlington, Texas
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door convertible 2-door Sport Coupe (hardtop) 2-door Custom Coupe (formal hardtop) 4-door hardtop 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Platform	B-body
Related	Chevrolet Caprice Chevrolet Bel Air
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto CID 250 Inline Six Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo Fire V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo-Jet 400 V8 Template:Auto CID Turbo-Jet V8

1972 Impala Sedan

The Impala remained Chevrolet's top-selling model throughout the 1970s. The 1971 redesigned B-body would be the largest car ever offered by Chevrolet. The 1970s marked the impact of the 1973 energy crisis with gasoline prices doubling from 1973 through 1979 and industry car sales plummeted 20 percent between 1973 and 1974. For the first time in recent history, annual passenger car travel in the U.S. declined. The Impala's sales dropped to 176,376 units in 1975, the weakest since its introduction in 1958. An Econominder gauge package was offered for 1975 and 1976 models. Station wagons replaced the swinging tailgate with an unusual design where the back window retracted into the roof, which was abandoned on the subsequent redesign. The key ignition was moved from the dashboard to the steering column.

The 1972 model introduced a grille which extended below the bumper. Powertrains consisted of mostly V8 engines. The 250 inline six was standard; the 350 2bbl V8 became the standard engine from 1973–1976, with 350 cubic inches (5.7 L), 400 cubic inches (6.6 L), 402 cubic inches (6.6 L) (through 72) or 454 cubic inches (7.4 L). However, the long-familiar OHV six-cylinder Turbo Thrift engine continued to be standard on two-door hardtop coupe and four-door pillared sedan models through the end of the 1972 model year. Beginning in 1972, all engines were designed to run on unleaded gasoline. 1972 saw the last Impala convertible; it sold 6,456 copies, placing fourth with just under 9% of the market, right behind the Corvette 6,508, ahead of the Mustang's 6,401.

1973 Chevrolets featured a larger, shock-absorbing front bumper due to new federal mandates which required 5-mile-per-hour (8.0 km/h) impact protection. New taillights were mounted in the (still) conventional rear bumper. This was the first year of the Caprice Classic convertible.

File:73 Impala.jpg

1973 Impala Custom Coupe

1974 Impala Sedan (with original Color Paint)

In 1974, the rear bumper was redesigned with shock absorbers to meet the upgraded standards and new tail lights were featured. The front end was also freshened as in previous years, with a new grille and headlight bezels, a new header panel, and a bumper with a drop down center section. The marker lights moved back up beside the headlamps once again. This was the only year of the 1971-1976 models the Impala had a different front end design than the Caprice Classic, as other years used either a grille insert or previous year Caprice front to distinguish the two. The rooflines of the Impala coupes were also revised. For 1974 the Custom Coupe was no longer a hardtop, with large fixed rear quarter glass and a thick B-pillar. The Sport Coupe, still a pillar-less hardtop, now used larger roll-down quarter glass like that of the 1971-73 Custom Coupe, and had a narrower, fastback style, flat back window. Sedans used carryover body shells from previous years.

A High Energy Ignition, or HEI, officially debuted on the 1975 models, however HEI was installed on some 1974 cars as a clandestine option. Several new options were offered for the first time in 1975. Catalytic converters were introduced in 1975. In addition to the Econominder gauge package, new options included intermittent wipers and a divided 50-50 bench seat (with a choice of sport cloth or vinyl trim). Also in 1975, the dashboard, radio and climate control graphics were revised; the speedometer read up to 100 miles per hour (160 km/h), and had smaller numbers for kilometers per hour. The door panel were revised for aesthetics as well as the rest of the upholstery. The 1975 Impala used a direct "hand-me-down" 1974 Caprice nose, with the only change being the grille insert and its emblem, while the entire front end of the Caprice model was revised with new fenders, hood, and a swept back style header panel with recessed headlight buckets, making the car appear shorter overall to the now economy minded consumer. This was the final year for the full-size Chevrolet convertible.

1976 Impalas used a previous year Caprice nose, with a new "egg crate" grille insert. The Impala had round headlamps while the Caprice used the new quad rectangular ones.

1973 Impala Custom Coupe

From 1968, two coupe models were offered on Impalas, the "Sport Coupe" was the lower-priced hardtop coupe design, shared with other GM "B" body hardtop coupes, and the formal-roof "Custom Coupe" which was the Caprice Coupe body in Impala trim. Sport Coupe models were discontinued after 1975, leaving the Custom Coupe, with its wide "B" pillar and fixed rear window, the only 2-door Impala available in 1976. This body style had been introduced for the 1974 model year, a precursor to Detroit's complete abandonment of pillarless body styles before the end of the Seventies.

Although the "Super Sport" model was long since discontinued, two special Impala models were offered in the latter years of the 1971-1976 body style: A Spirit of America package. Offered in 1974 on Sport Coupe models, this was primarily a trim package featuring special white body paint, a white vinyl top, sports-styled dual remote outside rear view mirrors, special wheel covers, optional rally rims (sourced from the Chevrolet C10 truck, painted white), a vinyl body side molding insert, and pin-striping and interior trim in either red or blue. The interior trim also included color-keyed seat belts and floormats. Special fender badges (along with one on the dashboard) announced the package to passengers or passers-by. A Landau model, for 1975-1976 models (and carried over into the late 1970s and 1980s; an identical version was also offered for Caprice models). Like the "Spirit of America" package, this was primarily an appearance package. The model featured a choice of special paint colors, sports-styled dual remote outside rearview mirrors, color-keyed wheel covers, a landau vinyl roof (with chrome band across the roof), a vinyl bodyside molding insert, and pin-striping. Inside there were color-keyed seat belts and floormats. Fender and dashboard emblems rounded out the package.

Sixth generation (1977–1985)

Sixth generation
Overview
Production	1976-1985
Model years	1977-1985
Assembly	Arlington, Texas Oshawa, Ontario
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door coupe 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Platform	B-body
Related	Chevrolet Caprice Pontiac Parisienne
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto CID V6 Template:Auto CID V6 Template:Auto CID L6 Template:Auto CID small-block V8 Template:Auto CID small-block V8 Template:Auto CID small-block V8 Template:Auto CID Olds diesel V8
Transmission	3-speed automatic 4-speed automatic (optional, 1981-1985)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	116 in (2,946 mm)

The changes in the automobile marketplace resulted in Chevrolet redesigning the Impala once again in 1977 to meet changing demands. The new downsized Impalas were shorter in length, taller and narrower than before. The new Impala's frame was a shortened version of the one introduced in 1971 and would be utilized until 1996 when the B-body production line was shut down. Even with its trimmer exterior dimensions, the new Impala featured increased headroom, legroom and trunk space. Size comparison between 76 and 77 Caprice

	76 Caprice	77 Caprice
Wheelbase	121.5”	116”
Overall Length	222.9”	212.1”
Width	79.5”	75.5”
Height	53.7”	55.3”
Front Headroom	38.9”	39.0”
Front Legroom	42.5”	42.2”
Front Hip Room	59.3”	55.0”
Front Shoulder Room	63.8”	61.1”
Rear Headroom	38.0”	38.2”
Rear Legroom	38.8”	39.5”
Rear Hip Room	59.7”	55.7”
Rear Shoulder Room	63.8”	61.1”
Trunk Capacity	18.9 FT3	20.9 FT3

All dimensions in inches unless noted otherwise

Production of the downsized model increased substantially over 1976, and the Impala regained the number one US sales position. The redesigned 1977 Impala/Caprice was named Motor Trend′s car of the year.

File:78 Impala.jpg

1978 Impala Coupe

Pillarless hardtops were discontinued, the result of rumors of federal rollover standards looming in the near future. The 1977-1979 coupes sported a double bent tempered rear window similar to the 1987 Monte Carlo Aerocoupe.

Engine availability was reduced in 1977 when the inline-6 was reintroduced with 110 horsepower (82 kW). Other options included 267-cubic-inch (4.4 L) and 305-cubic-inch (5.0 L) V8 engines. The 350-cubic-inch (5.7 L) V8 engine was optional in some years. Oldsmobile's 350-cubic-inch (5.7 L) V8 diesel engine also was available.

In 1980, although the body style remained the same, all new sheet-metal was used.

Although the Impala (and the upscale Caprice) sold well into the early 1980s, the Impala, reduced to the base model full-size Chevrolet, was popular with fleet usage - including taxi and police pursuit vehicles. The Impala was discontinued in 1985, while the Caprice continued unchanged until 1990.

Seventh generation (1994–1996)

Seventh generation
1994 Chevrolet Impala SS
Overview
Production	1993-1996
Model years	1994-1996
Assembly	Arlington, Texas
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout
Platform	B-body
Related	Chevrolet Caprice Buick Roadmaster
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto Lrev LT1 V8
Transmission	4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	115.9 in (2,944 mm)
Length	214.1 in (5,438 mm)
Width	77 in (1,956 mm)
Height	54.7 in (1,389 mm)
Curb weight	4,221 lb (1,915 kg)

In 1991, the GM B platform was extensively redesigned, though it retained the same shortened frame design of the 1977 redesign.

The Impala SS badge was resurrected at the 1992 Detroit Auto Show as a concept car designed by GM designer Jon Moss. The concept car was two inches lower to the ground than the regular Caprice, and was powered by a 8.2-liter (500 cu in) engine. Eventually, the concept car's engine was replaced with a 5.7-liter (350 cu in) engine derived from the Corvette in order to show the public what would be offered if put into production (an off-road specification 510-cubic-inch (8.4 L) V8 was eventually put into the engine bay of the prototype years later).

1994 Impala SS

The 1994 Impala SS went into production 14 months later at GM's plant in Arlington, Texas, and was almost identical cosmetically to the concept car, the only noticeable change being the chromed bowtie logo on the grill (vs a red logo on the concept). The car was, in essence, a high-performance version of the Caprice. From a mechanical standpoint, it used the Caprice 9C1 police package as its base and as such got most of the equipment formerly available only to law enforcement and government agencies. This included a sport-tuned suspension with reinforced shocks and springs, a high-capacity upgraded reverse flow cooling system, larger and more powerful four-wheel disc brakes, transmission cooler, dual exhaust, a higher-output electrical system, and other minor mechanical alterations. Not all of the police equipment was carried over however, as the Impala SS did not get the external oil-to-air engine oil cooler, nor were all the body mounts secured (the standard Caprice and Impala SS were assembled at the factory with the front 3 body mounts missing one of the rubber cushions, while the 9C1 was assembled with all rubber cushions in place), although both are popular aftermarket additions to the Impala SS by their owners.

The Impala SS was uniquely fitted with a standard 3.08 gear. The limited-slip rear differential was standard (as opposed to the option G80 on Caprices) and suspension that was an inch lower. A retuned LT1 5.7-liter (350 cu in) small-block V8 was standard on the Impala SS, making 260 horsepower (190 kW) and 330 pound-feet (450 N⋅m) of torque (retuned from the prototype's 300 horsepower (220 kW) rating). The primary difference between the LT1 in the Impala and the LT1 that was in the Corvette and Camaro was that the Impala engine was fitted with cast-iron cylinder heads instead of aluminum ones, and a camshaft that was designed more for low-end torque than high-end horsepower. Another difference was that the Impala LT1 had 2 bolt main bearing caps while the Corvette LT1 had 4 bolt main bearing caps. The transmission used in the car was the 4L60E, which was itself an upgraded and revised version of the previous 4L60. However, the transmission was not beefed up for the power of the LT1, and transmission failures after 100,000 miles (160,000 km) were commonplace. A standard transmission was never available in the 1994-96 Impala SS. However there is a growing trend of replacing the 4L60-E transmission, with the T-56 (6 speed manual) from the Camaro and Firebird using aftermarket kits. Alternatively, a popular enhancement was the addition of a shift-kit and/or a more aggressive torque converter.

Several other cars in the B-body line also shared a similar powertrain: these were the Chevrolet Caprice, Buick Roadmaster, and the Cadillac Fleetwood which all shared the LT1 engine and 4L60E automatic transmission.

Cosmetically, the Impala SS received body-colored trim, which helped reduce the sometimes "bloated" look of the standard Caprice, a unique single-bar grille with no hood ornament and, a rear deck spoiler. It was fitted with 17-inch (430 mm) brushed aluminum wheels with 255/50ZR17 tires. Inside, the car came with a central console with cup holders (1994 and 1995 models) and a storage compartment, leather seats embroidered with the Impala SS logo, and a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel.

For the 1994 model year, it was available only in black with a grey interior. Due to a shortage of the unique 5-spoke aluminum wheels (manufactured by ROH in Australia), only 6,303 cars were sold. However, the wheel shortage was remedied for the 1995 model year and 21,434 cars were sold. In 1995, Dark Cherry Metallic and Dark Grey Green were added as exterior color options, and the body paneling on the rear quarter panel was altered to reflect the cosmetic effect formerly achieved by a window insert. Another change from 1994 was the placement of the side mirrors from pods attached to the door to a larger format attached to the 'A' pillar. 1996 was the last year of production with 41,941 units sold. The 1996 Impala SS production went late into the model year; the last one being produced on December 13, 1996. It saw minor interior alterations, with the digital speedometer being replaced by an analog one, along with a tachometer. The shifter was moved from the column to the center console, and the engine was given an OBD-II computer control system (the camshaft was reground to adjust for the new computer).

A special ceremony was held at the plant on December 13, 1996 for M.G. "Pinky" Randall, a Chevrolet collector from Houghton Lake, Mich., who bought the last Impala SS. When Randall drove the car with the dark cherry-metallic paint off the line, he was accompanied by County Judge Tom Vandergriff in the front passenger seat. In the back seat were Mayor Richard Greene, plant manager Herb Stone and Lonnie Morgan, president of United Auto Workers Local 276, which represents about 1,900 of the plant's 2,100 employees. "I didn't think this last car would get publicity like this," said Randall, 69. The Impala becomes the 46th vehicle in Randall's Chevrolet collection.

The entire B/D-body line, consisting of the Chevrolet Caprice, Impala SS, Buick Roadmaster and Cadillac Fleetwood, was discontinued by General Motors, as GM wanted more assembly lines to be able to produce more profitable SUVs. Another fact was that the Caprice was the only B-body with a market share since fleet sales to law enforcement outnumbered sales of all other B-bodies.

Eighth generation (2000–2005)

Eighth generation
2000-05 Chevrolet Impala LS
Overview
Production	1999-2005
Model years	2000-2005
Assembly	Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FF layout
Platform	W-body 2nd Gen
Related	Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Powertrain
Engine	3.4 L (204 cu in) LA1 V6 Template:Auto Lrev L36 V6 Template:Auto Lrev supercharged L67 V6
Transmission	4-speed 4T65-E automatic 4-speed 4T65E-HD automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	110.5 in (2,807 mm)
Length	200.0 in (5,080 mm)
Width	73 in (1,855 mm)
Height	2000-02: 57.5 in (1,460 mm) 2003-05: 57.3 in (1,458 mm)
Curb weight	3,465 lb (1,572 kg)

The Impala name was resurrected for the 2000 model year as the "Hi-Mid" program to replace the Lumina. Based on the Lumina's W-body platform, it was built at Oshawa Car Assembly in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Unlike the earlier Impalas built on a B-body, this one was front-wheel drive and was available with a choice of two V6 engines, and slightly smaller. A new Impala SS with a supercharged V6 was brought out for the 2004 model year.

2002 Impala Sedan

The Impala was available in two trim levels from 2000 to 2001. The base model came equipped with cloth bench seats, the 180 horsepower (130 kW) 3.4 liter (204 cu in) LA1 V6, and a 3-gauge instrument cluster. The LS came factory-equipped with cloth bucket seats upgradeable to leather with center console and floor shift, color-keyed "Impala" door scripts and trunk badge, anti-lock brakes, traction control system, keyless remote entry, integrated foglamps, 4-gauge instrument cluster, and the 200 horsepower (150 kW) 3.8 liter (231 cu in) L36 V6. Options available on all models included a sunroof, OnStar system, rear decklid spoiler, Driver Information Center with built-in HomeLink system, heated power front seats, and 16 inch 1990s SS-inspired wheels. All options found or available on the LS were available on the base model. All models came equipped with power windows, door locks and mirrors.

In 2002, Chevrolet introduced the LS Sport appearance package. Added to the LS model, it offered a 6-gauge cluster, front bumper extension, color-keyed tail light panels and a chrome exhaust pipe tip.

In 2003, the "Impala" badges that adorned the front doors were dropped on the base model , like on all GM W-body cars (except for the Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Pontiac Grand Prix).

The 2004 to 2005 Impala SS came equipped with the 3.8 liter (231 cu in) supercharged L67 V6 engine. It was rated at 240 horsepower (180 kW) and had been previously used in the Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, Buick Regal GS, Buick Riviera, and H-body Pontiac Bonneville SSEI. The lightweight front wheel drive sedan was actually quicker than the vaunted 1990s Impala SS, with 0–60-mile-per-hour (0–97 km/h) times pushing 6.5 seconds compared to the earlier models' 7.1.

2005 Impala 9C1

Also released with this version were the Police Package and Undercover Police Package, named 9C1 and 9C3, respectively. Available only to law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and EMS agencies, it has had more success than its predecessor, the Lumina 9C3. The 9C1 was basically a base model with a stronger suspension and the 3.8 liter (231 cu in) V6 engine. It was only available in a few basic colors. Another addition was the "SURV MODE" switch which replaced the fog light switch found on the LS. This enabled the driver to turn off all lights in the vehicle and "hide"; something not allowed with the civilian models as automatic headlights were standard. The 9C3 was comparably equipped to the 9C1, but the ability to add other convenience options and more paint and interior choices set the 9C3 apart.

Ninth generation (2006–present)

Ninth generation
Overview
Production	2005-present
Model years	2006-present
Assembly	Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FF layout
Platform	W-body 3rd Gen
Related	Buick LaCrosse/Allure Chevrolet Monte Carlo Pontiac Grand Prix
Powertrain
Engine	Template:Auto Lrev LZE V6 Template:Auto Lrev LZ9 or LZG V6 Template:Auto Lrev LS4 V8
Transmission	4-speed 4T65E automatic 4-speed 4T65E-HD automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	110.5 in (2,807 mm)
Length	200.4 in (5,091 mm)
Width	72.9 in (1,851 mm)
Height	58.7 in (1,491 mm)
Curb weight	3,764 lb (1,707 kg)

The 2006 Impala was introduced at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show. Like the Buick LaCrosse, this model uses the updated GM W platform. The base engine is a 3.5 liter (214 cu in) V6 producing 211 horsepower (157 kW). The new Impala features new taillights, different from the four-circle style of the previous generation.

Impala SS

The most notable news about the model, though, is the SS model's use of the Generation IV small-block V8 in a front-wheel drive Chevrolet for the first time, and the first V8 in a Chevrolet sedan since the 1996 Caprice: the new 5.3 liter (325 cu in) V8 (with Displacement on Demand, now called Active Fuel Management or AFM) produces 303 horsepower (226 kW). With the use of the 5.3 liter LS4 V8, the Impala SS is capable of a 5.6 second 0–60-mile-per-hour (0–97 km/h) time and a quarter-mile time of 14.2 seconds traveling at 101 miles per hour (163 km/h). The car is 200.4 inches (5,091 mm) long, 58.7 inches (1,491 mm) high, and 72.9 inches (1,851 mm) wide. Available trim levels are LS, LT, LTZ and the aforementioned SS. LS became the base model. 6-passenger seating was only available as an option on the LS and LT models. Leather upholstery was standard on LTZ models and optional on LT models. The interior has been completely redesigned. The 2006 Impala featured a wood trim center console with chrome accents on all major control buttons. The dashboard featured a chrome Impala logo embedded in the wood grain trim that runs across the front of the vehicle and onto the doors. The new control knobs found throughout the vehicle's cockpit are similar to those found in the new Buick models as well as the Cadillac DTS, all of which feature a similar center console. Another interior revision is the location of the cupholders, which are now concealed beneath the mid-section of the vehicle's center console.

In 2007, the Impala received the FlexFuel 3.5-liter V-6 and Flex Fuel rear badge for the LS, LT, LTZ, 9C1 and 9C3 models. A new 3.9-liter V-6 with Active Fuel Management was available. The SS retained the same drivetrain and did not receive the FlexFuel feature due to the high performance nature of the powertrain. A tire-pressure-monitoring system, cruise control and a CD player were standard on all models, and a factory spoiler was an available option. The LT had 16-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels. The generation-7 OnStar system with turn-by-turn navigation was included when the available directions & connections service was selected. The SS had standard leather-appointed seats and XM Satellite Radio, with XM being optional on LS, LT, and LTZ trims. There were four new exterior colors—Precisions Red, Imperial Blue Metallic, Bordeaux Red, and Red Jewel Tintcoat, as well as a Regency-outfitted "Impala RSS". The RSS included aggressive rims, front/rear bumper and rocker panel extensions, a BMW M-inspired spoiler and various interior upgrades.

Impala Police Cruiser

The police sedans received the FlexFuel feature to compete against the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, which also received a similar feature allowing it to utilize E85. Also updated were the 9C1 & 9C3 trim levels for the Police Package models, which did not have the civilian SS's 303 horsepower (226 kW) V8 engine, but used the 3.9 liter (237 cu in) V6. The reason being the Police Sedans utilized the SS radiator and cooling system as an upgrade from the standard 3.9 liter engine (used in the Impala LTZ). GM did not wish to design a specific radiator and cooling system to equip a low-production V8 police vehicle. Also, the heavy-duty steel wheels were not redesigned, and as such, the Police Sedan used the original center caps or the older style wheel covers. The 9C1 and 9C3 were equipped with an external trunk lock tumbler. Neither feature was available for the civilian version of the car. The 9C1 and 9C3 police models had aluminized interior trim instead of the standard wood grain.

To commemorate the Impala's 50th year, a 50th Anniversary Edition was introduced in Spring 2008. Based on the LT, it added: FE3 Sport Suspension (replacing the FE1 Touring Suspension), four-wheel ABS, eighteen-inch SS-style alloy wheels (replacing the 16-inch wheels), rear SS style spoiler , "50th Anniversary" Impala badges on the C-pillars, two-tone, leather-trimmed seats with "50th" logos embroidered on the front headrests, eight-way power-adjustable driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel with accent-color threading including audio controls, ebony carpet, ebony floor mats with accent threading, "50th" Anniversary emblems on the sill plates and a choice of two premium exterior colors: Black Granite Metallic and Red Jewel Tintcoat

2009 Impala LT E85 FlexFuel

2009 Impala LT interior

For the 2009 model year, the Impala received three new exterior colors: Victory Red, Silver Ice Metallic, and Aqua Blue Metallic. The brushed aluminum dash applique was no longer available, and 9C1 and 9C3 police models switched to the metallic silver trim from the SS models. All models used the previous SS style spoiler (actually phased in for the late 2008 model year). Leather seating was no longer available in combination with the 40/20/40 split bench front seat. The Active Fuel Management feature remained on the 5.3L V8 for the SS model, but was no longer available on 3.9L V6 for the LT and LTZ models. A sun and wheel package was available on 1LT models included power sunroof, overhead console with Homelink and 17" aluminum wheels. Thorax side-impact air bags were standard.

For the 2010 model year, the Impala is the only GM W-body car in production. The eight-cylinder SS model has been discontinued. LT models now include fog lights. Three new exterior colors are available: Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic, and Aqua Blue Metallic. Four exterior colors have been deleted. The (PDG) convenience package, AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer, and trunk cargo net are no longer available. The Impala emblems on rear sail panels as well as the rear decklid badge on LS models have been deleted. Early '10 models had the lower front-side GM badges but were also later deleted.

Engines through 1976

Inline-Six:

• Template:Auto CID Blue Flame, 1958–1962
• Template:Auto CID 140 bhp (104 kW; 142 PS) Turbo Thrift, 1963–1965
• Template:Auto CID 155 bhp (116 kW; 157 PS) Turbo Thrift, 1966–1969

Small-block V8:

• Template:Auto CID 195 bhp (145 kW; 198 PS) to 220 bhp (164 kW; 223 PS) Turbo Fire, 1957–1967
• Template:Auto CID 200 bhp (149 kW; 203 PS) Turbo Fire, 1968
• Template:Auto CID 235 bhp (175 kW; 238 PS) to 375 bhp (280 kW; 380 PS) Turbo Fire, 1961–1969
• Template:Auto CID 250 bhp (186 kW; 253 PS) to 350 bhp (261 kW; 355 PS) Turbo Fire, 1969–1980
• Template:Auto CID 255 bhp (190 kW; 259 PS) to 265 bhp (198 kW; 269 PS) Turbo Fire, 1970–1976

Big-block V8:

• Template:Auto CID 250 bhp (186 kW; 253 PS) to 350 bhp (261 kW; 355 PS) W-series Turbo Thrust, 1958–1961
• Template:Auto CID 340 bhp (254 kW; 345 PS) to 425 bhp (317 kW; 431 PS) W-series Turbo Thrust, mid-1961 to early 1965 (This engine was featured in the Beach Boys song "409".)
• Template:Auto CID 265 bhp (198 kW; 269 PS) to 425 bhp (317 kW; 431 PS) Turbo-Jet, mid-1965 to 1969
• Template:Auto CID 335 bhp (250 kW; 340 PS) to 425 bhp (317 kW; 431 PS) Turbo-Jet, 1966–1969
• Template:Auto CID 345 bhp (257 kW; 350 PS) to 390 bhp (291 kW; 395 PS) Turbo-Jet, 1970–1976

Gallery

• 
  1958 Impala Convertible
• 
  1959 Impala Hardtop Coupe
• 
  1960 Impala 4-Door Hardtop
• 
  1964 Impala SS Hardtop Coupe
• 
  1966 Impala SS Convertible
• 
  1967 Impala Sport Coupe
• 
  1968 Impala Custom Coupe
• 
  1969 Impala Custom Coupe
• 
  1970 Impala Convertible
• 
  1971 Impala Convertible

Awards

Motor Trend magazine awarded the full-size Chevrolet including the Impala as its 1977 Car of the Year.

Automotive Fleet and Business Fleet magazines awarded the Impala the 2006 and 2007 Fleet Car of the Year.

Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) selected the Impala for its 2006 Pyramid Award for Environmental Initiatives for the launch of its new ethanol-powered E-85 model.

Safety

In the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's crash tests, the Impala is given an overall "Acceptable" score for front impact collisions. and a "Good" score for side impacts. Side curtain airbags are standard for front and rear rows; side torso airbags previously unavailable became standard on all trim levels beginning with the 2009 model year.

In September 2009, a local news station's investigative team discovered that GM's fleet customers who purchased the 2006-2009 Impala were able to order them with the side-curtain airbags deleted for a savings of $175 per vehicle. Because these fleets typically sell off their cars after 2–3 years of use, many of the Impalas that were built without side-curtains have gone on to become privately owned cars; however, the current owners cannot easily determine that their cars were not equipped with a safety feature that would otherwise be standard.

Future

After rumors that Impala would return to rear wheel drive, General Motors confirmed that the next generation model will continue to be front wheel drive, likely based on a variation of the global GM Epsilon II platform. A hybrid version is also expected.

NASCAR

2007 NASCAR Impala

In 2007, the Impala began to replace the Monte Carlo on the NASCAR stock car racing circuit; more specifically, on all the scheduled racing events where NASCAR has mandated the use of a car with different (and some) new specifications, better known as the Car of Tomorrow, it was recently announced that in 2008 the Impala will be the only Chevrolet nameplate on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

References

• Gunnell, John, Editor (1987). The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946-1975. Kraus Publications. ISBN 0-87341-096-3. {{cite book}}: |author= has generic name (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
• Biel, John (2005), "A Glass Half Full: The Story of the 1958 Chevrolet", Collectible Automobile, 21 (6): 8–23

External links

• Official site
• Appearances of the Impala in TV and film
• North American Impala Owners Association - Your source for late model Impala information
• History of the Chevrolet Impala 1958-2001