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2009 Chevrolet Impala Full Review
Date Published: 11/13/08
Also in the 2009 Chevrolet Impala Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Impala Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2009 Chevrolet Impala Review
The 2009 Chevrolet Impala is unchanged. This is the larger of Chevrolet's two midsize sedans, and it can seat up to six passengers. Impala comes in LS, LT, LTZ, and SS trims. LS and LT 3.5 models have a 211-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine. LT 3.9 and LTZ Impalas have a 233-hp 3.9-liter V6 that includes GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation system. Both V6 engines are capable of running on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. SS models have a 303-hp 5.3-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management. All Impalas have a 4-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Other available features include leather upholstery and remote engine start. A sport suspension, leather upholstery, and heated front seats are standard on the LTZ. SS models have a specific sport suspension and trim to go along with new 18-inch wheels. A wireless cell phone link is newly standard on the LT 3.9, LTZ, and SS.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family-oriented sedans and wagons. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 5, Saturn Aura, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Galant, and Nissan Maxima.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Galant, and Nissan Maxima.
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2009 Chevrolet Impala Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Fuel Economy (V8) |
| Acceleration (V8) | Quietness |
| Ride | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 8 | 5.4 |
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
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 or E85. Chevy recommends premium for the V8.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
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 or E85. Chevy recommends premium for the V8.
Ride Quality
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.
| 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
Any Impala is stable with good steering feel. The SS is particularly sharp, but none are overly agile. Stopping control is good.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 5.9 |
Any Impala is stable with good steering feel. The SS is particularly sharp, but none are overly agile. Stopping control is good.
Quietness
Wind rush and tire roar both intrude slightly. In rapid acceleration, the V6s emit a prominent growl. The V8 is subdued at cruise but has muscle-car rumble under throttle.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Wind rush and tire roar both intrude slightly. In rapid acceleration, the V6s emit a prominent growl. The V8 is subdued at cruise but has muscle-car rumble under throttle.
Controls
The gauges are clearly marked and easy to read. Large, clearly marked radio and climate controls have easy-grip rubberized surfaces and operate smoothly.
| 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 and climate controls have easy-grip rubberized surfaces and operate smoothly.
Details
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. One test Impala LT suffered from a few interior squeaks and rattles.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.6 |
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. One test Impala LT suffered from a few interior squeaks and rattles.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
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.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
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)
Headroom is adequate, but legroom is tight for taller adults. Narrow door bottoms slightly impede entry and exit.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Headroom is adequate, but legroom is tight for taller adults. Narrow door bottoms slightly impede entry and exit.
Cargo Room
Impala's trunk is roomy, with a usefully flat floor. The lid uses non-intrusive strut hinges, but an oddly shaped opening hampers loading bulky objects. Cabin storage is merely adequate.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
Impala's trunk is roomy, with a usefully flat floor. The lid uses non-intrusive strut hinges, but an oddly shaped opening hampers loading bulky objects. Cabin storage is merely adequate.
Value within Class
Chevrolet's top-selling car is affordable, relatively roomy, and has competent road manners. But this sedan still feels dated compared with class leaders.
| LT 3.5 | LT 3.9 | SS | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
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 | 63.2 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 63 | |
| High Score | 74 |
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2009 Chevrolet Impala Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/09/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| LS 4-door sedan | $23,045 | $21,778 | $750 |
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| LT 3.5 4-door sedan | $23,900 | $22,856 | $750 |
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| LT 3.9 4-door sedan | $26,365 | $24,915 | $750 |
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| LTZ 4-door sedan | $28,885 | $27,296 | $750 |
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| SS 4-door sedan | $30,390 | $28,719 | $750 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
LS
Powertrain
Flex-fuel 3.5-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights, emergency inside trunklid release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone manual climate controls, interior air filter, OnStar assistance system w/one-year service, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console w/shifter, 6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media connection, satellite radio, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 225/60R16 tires, wheel covers.
LT 3.5 adds to LS:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Remote engine start, compass, outside-temperature indicator, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alloy wheels.
LT 3.9 adds to LT 3.5:
Powertrain
Flex-fuel 3.9-liter V6 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Safety
Antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, folding rear seat, wireless cell phone link.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, rear spoiler, 225/55R17 tires.
LTZ adds to LT 3.9:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, 6-way power passenger seat, heated power mirrors, Bose sound system, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 235/50R18 tires.
SS adds to LT 3.9:
Powertrain
5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, 6-way power passenger seat.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 235/50WR18 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Luxury Edition Pkg.
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LT 3.5
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$2,465
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$2,046
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Leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, folding rear seat, upgraded OnStar assistance system w/navigation information, Bose sound system, rear spoiler.
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Convenience Pkg.
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SS
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$240
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$199
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Heated power mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage-door opener.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Power sunroof
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LT 3.5, LT 3.9, LTZ, SS
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$900
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$747
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LT, SS require universal garage door opener. NA LS.
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Front split bench seat
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LS, LT
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$195
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$162
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Includes column shifter.
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Folding rear seat
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LT 3.5
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$295
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$245
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Leather upholstery
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LT 3.9
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$1,125
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$934
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Includes heated front seats, 6-way power passenger seat.
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AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
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LT 3.9, LTZ, SS
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$295
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$245
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Bose sound system
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LT 3.9, SS
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$495
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$411
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Universal garage door opener
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LT, SS
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$100
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$83
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Floormats
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LS
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$125
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$104
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Engine-block heater
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LS, LT 3.5, LT 3.9, LTZ, SS
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$75
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$62
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Rear spoiler
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LT 3.5
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$275
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$228
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Bodyside moldings
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LS, LT 3.5, LT 3.9, LTZ, SS
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$100
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$83
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Special paint
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LT 3.5, LT 3.9, LTZ, SS
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$295
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$245
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NA LS.
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Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2009 Chevrolet Impala Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Chevrolet Impala 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 110.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 200.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3555 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 18.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | ohv V6 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.5 /213 | 3.9 /231 | 5.3 /325 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 211 @ 5800 | 224 @ 5700 | 303 @ 5600 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 214 @ 4000 | 235 @ 3200 | 323 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 4-speed automatic | 19/29 | 17/27 | 16/24 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Chevrolet Impala 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Chevrolet Impala Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Impala Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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