2002 Chevrolet Impala: Road Test
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2002 Chevrolet Impala ▼
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- MSRP: $20,325 -$24,025
- Invoice: $18,597 -$21,983
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Our road test for the 2002 Chevrolet Impala includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Chevrolet Impala from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Chevrolet Impala, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Chevrolet Impala help you decide if a 2002 Chevrolet Impala is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.6 |
Adequate power with the 3.4 V6, usefully stronger takeoffs and passing response with the 3.8. The alert, smooth-shifting transmission aids the cause.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test LSs averaged 20.1-22.9 mpg with lots of highway miles. Test 3.4-liter base model averaged 19.8 mpg in a city/highway mix. GM recommends regular fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Soft going with base suspension. Ride and Handling Suspension standard with 3.8 V6 tempers much of the float and wallow that plague the base suspension over high-speed dips, but does not absorb bumps well.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Far from sports-sedan precise, but base suspension furnishes adequate grip, balance, and steering feel. Sport Touring Suspension on 3.8 models enhances control, reduces body lean. Stopping power good despite slightly mushy pedal feel. Chevy should make ABS standard on both models, not just the LS.
QUIETNESS
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Low wind noise, but intrusive tire roar on coarse pavement. Neither engine sounds smooth or refined when pressed.
CONTROLS
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Not stylish, but convenient, with in-dash ignition switch, high-set stereo, and simple climate controls. Cabin materials are serviceable.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.9 |
Plenty of leg and head room, though soft seats furnish poor thigh support. Outward sightlines good.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Ample leg and head room for 6-footers, though three riders squeeze shoulder to shoulder. Disappointing toe clearance, and seat itself is uncomfortably soft, short, and flat. Entry/exit is big-car easy.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Flat-floor trunk is roomy and lid uses nonintrusive strut hinges. But odd-shaped opening is small enough to hamper loading bulky objects.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.9 |
An alternative to Ford Taurus, featuring comfort-oriented American style to Taurus' sportier influences. Impala leads in powertrain response, Taurus in safety features and rear-seat comfort. Discounts on this Chevy are readily available, but compromised refinement and low resale value are part of the deal.
Total Score
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 58 | 58 | 59.1 |
Total Score: 58
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