2011 Chevy Impala Review by automobile.com

Review

The Chevrolet Impala is an affordable large car that has received lackluster reviews in recent years. The 2011 Chevrolet Impala sees some improvements, which should hopefully increase its popularity. The new Impala sees an increase in gas mileage, and will be available in several different trims and a choice of engine styles. This initial car review will outline what we know about the new Impala so far.

Specifications

Here is what we know so far about the 2011 Chevrolet Impala’s specs:

• Pricing: The actual pricing of the 2011 Chevrolet Impala has not been released yet, but the 2010 model had an MSRP of $24,290 and an invoice price of $23,319. A large price increase is not expected for the new model year.
• Fuel economy: 19 mpg city, 32 mpg highway.
• Engine: two engines are available: a 3.5-liter, 211 horsepower V6, and a 3.9-liter, 230 horsepower V6. Engines are expected to be able to use E85 ethanol fuel.
• Acceleration: should provide adequate acceleration for everyday driving; 3.9-liter engines provide more passing power.
• Car safety features: antilock brakes, stability control, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags are expected to be included. OnStar should be standard.
• Suspension: four-wheel independent suspension with a stabilizer bar in the front and back.
• Warranty: three year, 36,000 mile basic warranty; five-year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty; five year, 100,000 mile roadside assistance warranty.

Exterior Features

Only minor design changes are expected for the 2011 Chevrolet Impala. Exterior features for the new Impala include 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear defogger, dual power remote mirrors, automatic halogen headlights, and daytime running lights. The upgraded trims will add features such as 18-inch wheels, heated door mirrors, and a spoiler.

Interior Features

The 2011 Chevrolet Impala should be able to seat two adults in the front and up to three adults in the back. The rear seats can fold flat for extra cargo space. Other expected standard interior features include two-zone temperature control, a six-way power driver seat, power accessories, OnStar, a trip computer, and a CD sound system with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio input. Upgraded trims will offer heated leather seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and an upgraded Bose sound system with eight speakers.

Performance

Performance on the 2011 Chevrolet Impala will vary by engine level. Both engines should provide plenty of power for everyday driving, but the 3.9-liter engine will have a little bit more kick for passing on the highway. Both engines are expected to be attached to a four-speed automatic transmission. Actual performance won’t be able to be assessed until the vehicle is available for a road test.