2008 Chevrolet Impala: Road Test
2008 Chevrolet Impala ▼
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- MSRP: $21,975 -$29,355
- Invoice: $20,766 -$27,740
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Our road test for the 2008 Chevrolet Impala includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Chevrolet Impala from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Chevrolet Impala, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Chevrolet Impala help you decide if a 2008 Chevrolet Impala is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 8 | 5.6 |
The 3.5 and 3.9-liter V6s provide similar acceleration in around-town driving, but the 3.9 has better passing response in the 35-55-mph range. The SS's V8 furnishes ample power at any speed. Using E85 ethanol, test models with the 3.5-liter engine showed no difference in acceleration.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an LT 3.5 averaged 24.2 mpg on conventional gasoline in mostly highway driving.
Using E85, it averaged 16.9 mpg overall, 22.9 in mostly highway driving. An SS averaged 20.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. V6 Impalas use regular-grade gas. Chevy recommends premium for the V8.
RIDE QUALITY
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 |
With the standard 16-inch tires, Impala LS and LT 3.5 models ride softly with noticeable float and wallow. The available 17s on the LT 3.9 temper much of the unwanted motion. Despite their sport suspension and 18-inch tires, Impala SS models are surprisingly smooth.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
Any Impala is stable with good steering feel. The SS is particularly sharp, but none are overly agile. Stopping control is good, but Chevy should make ABS standard on all Impalas.
QUIETNESS
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Wind rush and tire roar both intrude slightly. In rapid acceleration, the V6s emit prominent growl. The V8 is subdued at cruise but has muscle-car rumble under throttle. One test Impala LT suffered from a few interior squeaks and rattles.
CONTROLS
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
The gauges are clearly marked and easy to read. Large, clearly marked radio/climate controls have easy-grip rubberized surfaces and operate smoothly.
DETAILS
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Cabin materials are serviceable, but Impala trails most like-priced rivals for quality feel. Hard plastic expanses dominate the cabin, giving it a budget look and feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Headroom and legroom are adequate. With the available front bench, the seat bottom is too short for long-distance comfort. The narrow cabin limits three-abreast seating to short trips with smaller passengers. Decent visibility is compromised slightly by thick rear pillars.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Headroom is adequate, but legroom is tight for taller adults. Narrow door bottoms slightly impede entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Impala's trunk is roomy, with a usefully flat floor. The lid uses nonintrusive strut hinges, but an oddly shaped opening hampers loading bulky objects. Cabin storage is merely adequate.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Chevrolet's top-selling car is affordable, relatively roomy, and has competent road manners. But this sedan still feels dated compared with class leaders.
Total Score
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | 63 | 65 | 63.1 |
Total Score: 63
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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