2019 Chevrolet Impala Review: A Casualty Of Crossover Warfare
Ten generations in, and the history of the Chevrolet Impala has seen it evolve from the most luxurious range-topping version of the Bel Air range back in 1958, to now being a sedate, and often forgettable, full-size sedan neatly dressed in a bowtie badge. However, while times may have changed, and the Impala's style along with it, what hasn't changed is the nameplate's affiliation with a large trunk, smooth ride, and plush seats. With the market now shifting towards crossovers and SUVs, though, the Impala's days are numbered - originally slated for euthanasia at the end of 2019, GM has elected to continue production of the sedan for an extra seven months, resulting in the 2020 Impala. Sadly, the Impala's 52nd production year will also be it's last, so while we wait to see if Chevrolet sends it out with a bang, we spend some time with the 2019 model to see if they're justified in letting it go gently into the night.
The current model comes in three trims, namely the LS, LT, and Premier, all of which are front-wheel drive. The LS and LT come standard with a 197-horsepower 2.5-liter engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission; the Premier has a 305-hp 3.6-liter V6. Despite dwindling sales in the sedan class, the Impala still has formidable rivals like the Toyota Avalon and Kia Cadenza, all of which are set to outlive the big Chev.
What's the Price of the 2019 Chevrolet Impala?
The LS starts off the range with a base MSRP of just $28,020, making it cheaper than anything in the Kia Cadenza, Toyota Avalon, or Buick Lacrosse ranges. Next is the LT with a starting price of $30,520. The range-topping Premier has a sticker price of $36,720 and is also cheaper than the top of the range Avalon at $42,350 and Kia Cadenza at $44,100. Additionally, there is a destination fee of $875, as well as registration, taxes, and licensing fees. Opting for the V6 engine on the base pair of models increases the price by $1,095.
2019 Impala Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201.3 in | 111.7 in | 58.9 in | 73.0 in | 62.2 in | 62.0 in |
2019 Impala Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
Driving the Impala feels like sitting in a lounge on wheels. The seats are comfortable, huge, and set in an incredibly spacious cabin. Pair this with a soft suspension, and comfort ranks as one of the Impala's top attributes. The cabin is tremendously quiet and isolated from the road with all but the biggest bumps easily absorbed. The accurate steering is one of the highlights of the Impala. It feels direct and focused, setting itself apart from the numb steering found on many sedans these days. Unfortunately, the brakes are a bit on the spongy side, but at least they do their job of stopping the car in time. The ride isn't as soft as some of the other luxury-focused cars, and there is still noticeable body roll thanks to its hulking weight. Despite these drawbacks, the Impala still feels good to drive because it's so serene. It's a car that's most at home on the open road where it can roam the freeway, rather than being constricted to urban driving. Just don't cripple it by getting the four-cylinder version.
2019 Impala Interior
2019 Impala Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Drivetrain Note | Rust-Through | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Roadside Assistance Note | Maintenance Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | Qualified Fleet Purchases: 5 Years/100,000 Miles | 6 Years / 100,000 Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | Qualified Fleet Purchases: 5 Years/100,000 Miles | 1 Year/1 Visit |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2019 Chevrolet Impala A Good car?
First introduced in 2014, the current Impala is showing its age and is due to be discontinued. While the exterior styling is still acceptable, the engine selection is behind the times with no hybrid or turbocharged options. The interior is also looking old, particularly the dashboard with its hard plastics and dated shape.
Despite the few drawbacks, the Impala is still a good car that offers fantastic value for money; the Premier trim having a starting price of only $36,720. For a car at the end of its lifespan, it still looks good with distinct styling that beats many of the generic-looking options out there. The Impala is amazingly comfortable, with large cozy seats, and enough room to stretch - not to mention class-leading cargo space. The Bose sound system, together with the V6 engine, makes it a perfect companion for a road trip.
What Chevrolet Impala Model Should I Buy?
The basic LS is lethargic with its 197-hp 2.5-liter engine, and has very limited options to upgrade. The LT is better equipped and has many optional packages available to enhance its features, but still comes with the same feeble engine, although it does have the option to upgrade to the V6. It also misses out on some of the driver aids that are part of the exclusive packages limited to the Premier. For the best all-round experience, the Premier is the one to go for. It has a powerful 305-hp V6 as standard and also has many features unavailable on the lower trims, such as advanced driver aids and the Bose sound system. It also has a power sunroof and rear spoiler. At only $36,720, it is also great value for money compared to many rivals, making it our pick of the Impala lineup.
2019 Chevrolet Impala Comparisons
2019 Chevrolet Impala vs Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry, now in its eighth generation, constantly features on top seller lists thanks to its all-round capabilities and famous reliability. The current model, introduced in 2018, has sharp styling for a change, which can rival the Impala's aggressive front end. While the interior is smaller than the Impala, it is just as comfortable and way more modern. The entry-level Camry L starts out cheaper than the entry-level Impala, and has a slightly more powerful 203-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It also has far better gas mileage, with EPA estimated figures of 29/41/34 mpg. The top of the range Camry is cheaper than the Premier Impala at $34,850, and makes slightly less power at 301 hp. The older Impala has a larger cabin and more space, but has thirsty engines and is more expensive. The Camry is newer and cheaper and has better fuel economy, although the passenger space is less. Both are great cars, but the sun is setting on the Impala, and the Camry narrowly wins.
2019 Chevrolet Impala vs Chevrolet Malibu
The Malibu is the Impala's smaller sibling and was redesigned in 2018. Despite being newer, it lacks the distinctive styling of the Impala and has a more generic look to it. The entry-level Malibu is much cheaper, starting at just $22,090 for the entry-level trim with a 160-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a CVT transmission. The top-end trim starts at $31,820 and features a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with nine-speed automatic transmission. While smaller than the interior of the Impala, the Malibu is still comfortable and is more modern. The Impala is more expensive, but it's well worth the money, especially with the 305-hp 3.6-liter V6. It has more power, more space, and more features than the Malibu. The Malibu may be fine for short trips around town, but for the open road, it can't beat the Impala.