The Chevrolet Impala: Deceptively Speedy

The Chevrolet Impala is a reasonably priced, well-styled sedan whose performance and durability is good enough to make it a popular choice among those police departments willing to eschew rear wheel drive for economy. It has a pleasant appearance, with original treatment of the new "retro" style round headlights and taillights. The standard 3.4 liter engine is good for drivers who want responsiveness but don't need performance, while the optional 3.8 (standard on the LS model) is torquey, reliable, and has lots of pep from the get-go and for freeway passing. Our fuel economy ranged from around 22 mpg, around town and with heavy acceleration, to 32 mpg, on the highway at the speed limit. Expect about 26 mpg overall, not bad for its class; you'll get better-than-average mileage if you drive relatively gently.

Acceleration is thrilling and responsive. The intake and exhaust were tuned for a throaty hi-po sound, and the transmission downshifts with alacrity - better, indeed, than any other automatic transmission we have tested. It also shifts very smoothly under ordinary acceleration, even though it takes standard fluid. The transmission, as much as the engine, makes the car lots of fun to drive on the freeway. Passing is easier than with most other cars, where there is often a discernible pause before downshifts. In brief, we love a transmission that jerks our head when needed, and feels invisible the rest of the time. Of course, the engine helps, too.

Handling was less impressive, especially compared with the Intrepid, and torque steer was evident. To be fair, few will test the limits of the Impala's handling, and it felt nimble and responsive. Braking was also quite good.

The Impala had many clever features. For example, at night (and only at night), the headlights and reverse lights activate for a few minutes after unlocking or locking the doors with the remote. This helps you to find the sidewalk or your garage door. All accessories stay activate after you take out the key, so you can still raise the windows and listen to the radio - until you open the door, and then the power is cut. Sensible but convenient.

We also liked the retro-but-sensible, dashboard-mounted ignition switch. The radio was anything but retro, with a load of gadgets from speed-sensitive volume to the ability to search for particular types of stations (since few stations support the system, though, it's not very useful now). Radio controls are also on the steering wheel, so it's easier to change stations or the volume without moving your hands.

The instruments were illuminated at night, so it was easy to find the right button. However, the GM philosophy of overloading stalks was in full force. The sole stalk contains the windshield wipe/wash controls, cruise control switch, and directionals. Though cruise control buttons are on the steering wheel, the on/off switch is on the stalk, and there is no temporary cancel-speed button. Breaking with GM tradition, you can actually use the hazard flashers even when your foot is on the brake.

Dual-zone ventilation controls are unusual in this price class, and easy to use. Even under high fan settings, there was little vent noise.

The trip computer required very firm button-pushes, and sometimes it was hard to reset. The automatic-dimming rear view mirror did not seem to dim when reflecting the setting sun, and did not dim enough on the road. A manual mirror would be advisable.

The convenient storage compartments include a very large cubby in the console which can be used to store a full size box of tissues if needed. The cup holders are convenient places to toss coins until you have a chance to place them in the built-in (but removable!) coin holder. The trip computer included a garage door opener.

Visibility was good, and we felt that the rear spoiler actually improved matters by blocking some other cars' bright headlights. It did not interfere with parking.

The ride was nice on smooth roads, a little harsh (for its class) on hard concrete or rough surfaces. Those who prefer a firm feel will likely find it to be smooth enough. You should be the judge.

The Impala is remarkably quiet inside, with very little wind or road noise. It also feels very solid.

The interior was moderately sized, competitive for its class but considerably smaller than the Intrepid/Concorde. The trunk was large, and both rear seats could be independently folded down for longer objects. Entry into the rear was fairly easy.

Overall, the Impala is quite competitive in its price range. We really enjoyed it, and most of the "front wheel drive" police departments do, as well.

Best alternatives: Dodge Intrepid R/T, Pontiac Bonneville, Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry