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.