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Chevrolet Impala

Chevrolet Impala (United States of America, 2006-2012)

Chevrolet > Impala > Gen.9
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Review

The ninth generation of the Chevrolet Impala was presented at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show. It is based on the updated GM W platform.

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.

The trim levels are LS, LT, LTZ and the SS.

Since 2007, the Impala features the FlexFuel 3.5-liter V-6 and Flex Fuel rear badge for the LS, LT, LTZ, 9C1 and 9C3 models also a new 3.9-liter V-6 was added.

For the 2010 model year, the eight-cylinder SS model was discontinued and the 3.9L V6 was no longer available for the LT model.



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2012 Upates

Updates for the 2012 Impala include:

  • Standard 280-horsepower (206 kW) 3.6L V-6 DOHC SIDI engine with variable valve timing and E85 FlexFuel capability (all models), with EPA-estimated 30 mpg highway
  • Six-speed automatic transmission
  • Dual exhaust on all models
  • new Front grille
  • Black on LS
  • Silver on LT and LTZ
  • Rear-end appearance with dual exhaust outlets, standard on all models
  • Sixteen-inch, five-spoke cast aluminum wheels in Silver Sparkle paint, standard on LS
  • Leather shift knob standard on LT and LTZ
  • Interior woodgrain trim and two-tone Neutral interior
  • Front and rear carpeted floor mats, Bluetooth for select phones and leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio controls standard on LS
  • Flip-and-fold rear seats and rear spoiler standard on LT
  • Exterior colors: Black Granite Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat (additional charge)
  • Rear decklid molding
  • Standard rear spoiler on LT model


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Engine, transmissions and performance

The top-selling sedan in the U.S., received for 2012 an all-new, 280-horsepower (206 kW) 3.6L V-6 engine and six-speed transmission that deliver an EPA-estimated 30 mpg highway. The Impala is also E85 FlexFuel-capable.

The 3.6L V-6 DOHC direct injection engine with variable valve timing and E85 FlexFuel capability is standard on all Impala models. It is the same engine that powers the 2012 Camaro 2LS model. It provides 280 horsepower (206 kW) in the Impala and delivers an EPA-estimated 30 mpg highway.

A six-speed automatic transmission replaces the previous model year’s four-speed gearbox.

Key engine features in 2012 include:

Almost 20 pounds engine weight reduction for improved efficiency and driving dynamics. New cylinder heads bring a revised intake port design that enhances airflow to the combustion chambers for greater efficiency. The 3.6L V-6 uses a new fuel pump for the direct injection system, along with a new, isolated fuel rail. The new fuel pump is quieter, while the isolated fuel rail further reduces fuel system noise. The engine was redesigned with additional support ribs on the backside and an additional fastener to lessen noise and vibration. Inside the engine, the powdered metal connecting rods use a higher ratio of copper, which makes them stronger and lighter. Also, the camshafts feature new saddle-type caps for improved durability.



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Design and features

Exterior

New exterior features include an updated black grille on LS models, and a silver grille on LT and LTZ. A new, standard rear-end appearance complements the updated grilles. It includes rear decklid molding and dual exhaust outlets.

New colors for 2012 are: Black Granite Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat (at additional charge).

Interior

The 2012 Impala comes with two-tone interior and woodgrain trim, three new colors and new wheels. Features such as flip-and-fold rear seats with armrests (standard on LTZ and LT) reveal a storage tub under the seat when the cushions are flipped forward, for stashing items. A pass-through from the trunk can be created by flipping the seat bottoms forward and the seat backs flat – an exclusive, and handy, feature.
   
Features

Two audio systems include standard SiriusXM Satellite Radio for three months. The base MP3/CD radio includes a six-speaker system, a two-line, 32-character reconfigurable display and the capability to select between AM, FM and SiriusXM stations without having to reset the frequency.

A Bose eight-speaker audio system is standard on LTZ. All radios include a standard auxiliary input jack for portable devices such as an iPod. Bluetooth connectivity for selected, compatible phones keeps drivers’ eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

A six-way power seat is available on LS and LT. LTZ includes heated, six-way power seats for the driver and front passenger with leather accents.

Dual-zone climate control on LTZ and LT, with up to 12 degrees F temperature setting difference between the two front zones.
 



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Chassis and suspension

Suspension

The FE1/FE2 suspensions are standard on LS and LT models, while the FE3 suspension is standard on the LTZ trim. Front suspension features a MacPherson strut-over-coil independent setup with gas-charged struts and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension uses a trailing arm, tri-link setup with gas-charged struts and coil springs. A rear stabilizer bar is standard on all models.

Steering

The Impala uses power rack-and-pinion steering on all models.

Brakes

Brakes are four-wheel disc with power assist, vented at front and solid at rear.

Wheels and tires

Impala provides a family of 16- and 17-inch wheels and tires. The Impala LTZ trim is equipped with 18-inch wheels and tires.



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Safety

2011 5-star rating

The 2011 model achieved the US government’s top frontal crash test ratings of five stars.

Safety features

  • Impala includes OnStar, which can automatically send emergency help to a crash.
  • Six standard air bags include side curtain air bags, which provide head protection for outboard passengers in the event of a side-impact or rollover crash.
  • StabiliTrak electronic stability control system helps reduce the risk of rollover crashes by keeping the vehicle in the driver’s intended path by applying throttle, braking or a combination of both.
  • Standard four-wheel-disc brake system featuring smooth, quiet operation, longer pad life and more resistance to brake pulsation.
  • Improved steering control while braking due to standard anti-lock brakes. The system also includes Electronic Brake Force Distribution, which helps provide optimum braking regardless of load, traction or braking speed.
  • Stable acceleration under various road conditions due to standard traction control system working with the ABS system.
  • Pretensioners minimize forward movement during a collision, and are standard on the front safety belts. Load-limiting retractors cinch the belt more tightly.
  • LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat attachment system, included in all second-row seating positions.
  • Tire pressure monitoring system, standard on all models.
  • Standard remote keyless entry (RKE) system provides a second function for the red panic button. Drivers can use it to locate their cars without sounding the panic alarm.
  • Enhanced structure to absorb crash energy and provide a protective “safety cage” around occupants.

OnStar details
OnStar uses GPS and cellular technology to automatically call for help in the event of moderate to severe crash, provide route guidance or remote vehicle diagnostics. OnStar subscribers also can use the service to send help to other motorists, and to call for help in other non-crash emergencies. OnStar is a provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada. Services include Stolen Vehicle Location and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown that help recover vehicles and prevent potentially dangerous car chases involving stolen vehicles.



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Key competitors

Major competitors of this generation of the Impala are:



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