2003 Chevrolet Impala: Road Test
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2003 Chevrolet Impala ▼
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- MSRP: $21,160 -$24,260
- Invoice: $19,361 -$22,198
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Our road test for the 2003 Chevrolet Impala includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chevrolet Impala from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chevrolet Impala, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chevrolet Impala help you decide if a 2003 Chevrolet Impala is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.5 |
Acceleration is adequate with the base 3.4 V6. The 3.8 gives usefully stronger takeoffs and passing response. Alert, smooth-shifting transmission aids the cause.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
LS test cars averaged 20.1-22.9 mpg with lots of highway miles. Test 3.4-liter base Impala 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 | 6.8 |
Base suspension provides soft but somewhat sloppy ride. LS's sport suspension included with 3.8 V6 tempers much of the float and wallow that plague the base suspension over high-speed dips, but the tradeoff is a sometimes too-stiff ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.5 |
Far from sports-sedan precise, but base suspension furnishes adequate grip, balance, and steering feel. Sport suspension enhances control, reduces body lean. Stopping power good with ABS despite slightly mushy pedal feel, but Chevy should make ABS standard on both Impalas, not just the LS.
QUIETNESS
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Low wind noise, but intrusive tire roar on coarse pavement. Engines gruff when pressed, but are quiet at cruise and fairly smooth.
CONTROLS
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Not stylish, but convenient, with in-dash ignition switch, high-set stereo, and simple climate controls. Cabin decor bland; even LS-optional leather upholstery lacks richness.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.9 |
Plenty of head and leg room, though soft seats furnish poor thigh support. Outward sightlines good. Most rivals provide side airbags for both front occupants; Chevrolet offers one for the driver only, and it's optional.
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 hauling bulky objects.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, 3.4 V6 | LS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.9 |
A domestic alternative to Ford Taurus, featuring comfort-oriented American style to Taurus's 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 57 | 58 | 59.8 |
Total Score: 58
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