2000 Chevrolet Impala: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chevrolet revives a famous big-car name for a new front-wheel-drive midsize sedan. Impala shares its basic understructure with the Buick Century and Regal, the Oldsmobile Intrigue, and Pontiac's Grand Prix. A 3.4-liter V6 is standard on the base Impala. The upscale LS gets a 3.8 liter that's optional on the base. Both come with automatic transmission, 4-wheel-disc brakes, 16-inch wheels, air conditioning, and power windows and locks.
A side airbag for the driver is optional on the base Impala, standard on LS. (Chevy says it's awaiting development of a "smart" front passenger-side airbag before offering one in its cars.) The LS also includes antilock brakes, tire-inflation monitor, traction control, and a "firm ride" suspension, all of which are included in the base model's 3.8-liter option. The base Impala seats six via a front bench seat but can be ordered with the LS's buckets and floor shift console. Leather upholstery is available for both and includes a split-fold rear seatback. General Motors' OnStar assistance system is optional.

COMPETITION

Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both come in coupe and sedan form, offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced. Recommended models include the smooth Buick Century, the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, the sporty Nissan Maxima, surprising Olds Intrigue, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. If you are looking for something a touch bigger without spending a whole lot more we suggest the Budget Buy Chevy Impala. It's the largest car in this class, has a powerful V6, and doesn't cost any more than the others.