‘America’s Sweetheart’ of the 60s, the Chevrolet Impala is a large family sedan that is powerful and luxurious with an understated-regal demeanor. From the late 50s through to the early 70s Chevy’s Impala was undisputed queen of the marquee. For 2000 the Impala was given a spanking new look and a whole new coterie of ‘car Tao’.

It received substantial upgrades for the 2006 model year with attractive exterior styling, comfortable and roomy interiors and a choice of three new engines in 4 major trims: LS, LT, LTZ and SS.

The Impala has performance enhanced premium-quality features. Epitomizing understated strength, this sporty sedan in the mid car segment offers smart design elements. Prime instances of Chevy’s attention to detail are the innovative flip-and-fold back seats and folding rear seatbacks. The LTZ has heated Nuance leather seating surfaces, an XM Satellite Radio setup and other convenience features. In point of fact it is a decent choice for those in need of an affordable sedan with spacious interiors.

Upgraded aesthetic elements and enhanced performance has the Impala wooing a rather discerning 30 something consumer.

For 2007 the 3.9L V6 comes equipped with Active Fuel Management and advanced Variable Valve Timing (VVT) that helps maximize horsepower and torque outputs. The 3.5 V6 can now run on either gasoline or E85 - a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline - or a combination of both. (E85 ethanol fuel is a cleaner-burning, renewable fuel source made from U.S.-grown biomaterial such as corn or other grain products). The range has a basic warranty of 36 months/36,000 miles

The 2007 Chevrolet Impala is available in 4 main trims. The Impala LS, 1LT and 2LT have a 211 hp 3.5L V6 engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT), and a torque of 214 lb-ft. It is gasoline and E85 compatible and gives an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21/31 mpg (city/highway) using gasoline and 16/23 mpg (city/highway) with E85.

The 3LT and LTZ have a 233 hp 3.9L V6 engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Active Fuel Management technology. It renders a torque of 240 lb-ft and an EPA estimated fuel economy of 20/29 mpg (city/highway).

The SS has a 303 hp 5.3L small block V8 engine with Active Fuel Management technology, a torque of 323 lb-ft and an EPA fuel economy estimate of 18/27 mpg (city/highway).

With power coursing through the front wheels and a high performance 4-speed automatic transmission that serves up seamless shifts, the Impala makes for a sturdy ride. A pushrod system with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) ensures efficient throttle response.

The Impala's aesthetic sensibilities are a projection of Chevrolet's eye for detail. Spare and efficient, it has an aura of quiet strength and distinctive styling. The exterior features bold headlamps and taillamps. It received a stiffer body and chassis structure in the 2006 model year.

LS models include 16-inch wheels. All models have ‘Flat’ windshield wiper blades that are contoured to the shape of the windshield to allow consistent pressure and minimize streaking and wind noise.

The LT model adds 17-inch alloys and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The SS comes with monochromatic exterior paint, a performance suspension, 18-inch wheels and a rear spoiler.

The LS, LT and LTZ share a similar front-end design, while the SS has a completely different nose architecture. The Impala LS, LT and LTZ models have unique exterior trim cues that help distinguish between each model. The Impala SS receives a distinctive front-end appearance: a dual-split grille with an SS signature black-diamond crosshatch pattern.

The Impala's most noteworthy feature is its 'roominess'. It is one of the few six-passenger sedans in the market; which gives it an edge over the competition. Interior space is aplenty. Reupholstered seating features are simple and tailored. Firm cushions and increased lumbar support provide added comfort during long drives.

Higher level trims feature Nuance leather-covered seating. Impala LS, LT and LTZ models feature a wood-grain-trim while the SS model has a metallic interior trim. Trunk space is roomy with a huge opening for easy loading.

Other contemporary and state-of-the art features include: a dual-zone climate control system, a Bose audio system and an input jack for external devices, OnStar system, Driver Information Center and a base audio system featuring AM/FM/CD and six speakers. An optional MP3/CD-radio is configured for the XM Satellite Radio.

This Chevy is fuel efficient and serves up driver ergonomics with a flourish. The Impala SS with its 303 hp has the most power and torque in its class; it has a heavy nose quality though. Its 5.3L small-block V8 engine with Active Fuel Management technology provides up to 8 percent improved fuel economy. It delivers impressive decibel levels and has a strong acceleration performance. Revised suspension systems deliver a confident ride.

Its four-wheel-disc brake system features front brakes, upgraded rear brakes and a brake booster. The ABS features Corner Brake Control (CBC). A fluid and steady ride is offered, courtesy of an extruded aluminum engine cradle. Its one-piece machined rear cross member and new aluminum rear body mounts increase the cradle's lateral stiffness at the steering joint; this considerably improves the handling.

Safety features include: ABS, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Top tethers for Children), OnStar, remote keyless entry, remote vehicle starter system, Theft-deterrent system and standard driver and passenger air bags.

All standard safety features add up to a supremely hardy and trustworthy automobile.