Chevy Impala – Reliable, Strong, and Defined

By Alan Gell
Automotive Journalist

The Chevrolet Impala is the flagship sedan of the brand. I recently had an opportunity to test drive the new 2006 Impala LTZ and the 2006 Impala LS. The GM engineers working for Chevy have managed to exemplify the quiet strength so inherent in the Impala. Even though this new model is sport and stylish, it’s reliable. But most importantly, it can perform like the Impala has always been able to do since its introduction back in 1999.

For 2006, there’s new exterior styling that includes front and rear fascias as well as new jeweled headlamps and redesigned tail lamps. The inside has been redesigned to include a new look for the instrument panel and controls. And, borrowing from other vehicles, the rear seats now flip-and-fold for the convenience of storage and cargo space. There’s a lot of attention to detail and premium-quality features in the 2006 Impala lineup. The revised suspension system delivers a quieter and more confident ride.

There is a new family of V-6 engines that include variable valve timing for performance as well as economy. The standard is a 3.5 liter V-6, but a new 3.9 liter V-6 has added features including a variable intake technology The LS model was equipped with a 3.5 liter V6 engine and a 4 speed automatic transmission. It was front wheel drive with 16 inch wheels. The engine was designed to operate on either gasoline or ethanol. Alternative fuels such as ethanol are becoming more commonplace and the Impala’s acceptance of this is another sign of the times. The fuel estimates on the LS model range from 21 in the city to about 30 or 31 on the highway.

My test drive for a week produced an average of 24 mpg, which I thought was probably a little bit low. It had power windows and locks, as well as a remote starter system, which I was pleased to use. The heating and AC is of a dual zone design, which my wife prefers since we rarely agree on the optimum temperature. A handy cargo net was located in the back so as to hold groceries and other bags secure from slipping and sliding. The LS model has a base price of $21,860, but with a few extras, the bottom sticker price on the test model was $24,085.

The LTZ model was equipped with the 3.9 liter V6 engine with a 4-speed transmission. It was a beautiful Laser Blue Metallic with an Ebony interior. The standard equipment on the LTZ model included programmable auto door locks, automatic headlamp controls, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, heated power outside mirrors, and fog lamps. It came equipped with 17 inch wheels and touring tires. Inside the LTZ model had a Bose premium sound system that included an MP3 & auxiliary input jack. The seating was all leather, which only added to feeling of a small bit of luxury in such an affordable vehicle. Mileage on the LTZ model was down slightly over the LS. I averaged about 21 mpg for the weekly test drive. The sticker guide rates the LTZ at 19 for city driving and up to 27 mpg for the highway.

The Impala SS model is more performance oriented and comes with the legendary small-block V8 engine. The SS model also comes equipped with 18 inch wheels, a 34 mm front stabilizer bar and an 18 mm rear stabilizer bar. The SS model is obviously a sportier ride and provides more stability at higher speeds.

The Impala by Chevrolet is still the performance oriented, economy priced car it has always been. It is reliable in having cultivated a growing family of customers – both new and returning ones. The 2006 models take that defined strength and build on the quality and performance those customers have learned to appreciate and respect. Check out the new Impala models at your neighborhood Chevy dealer soon.