When the Chevrolet Impala debuted in 1958 as a top-line of the Bel Air two-door model, it hit all the right notes with buyers, and Impalas accounted for 15 percent of Chevrolet's total production for the 1958 model year. Until its discontinuation in 2020, the Impala was a very popular full-size car that sold well for most of its 10-generation production run.

UPDATED 2023/10/05 by Ron FP

After skyrocketing back in 2021, used car prices have been going down in 2023. It might be a great time to find a used Chevrolet Impala for sale now, but of course, you'll need to make sure which Impala is worth buying. We're here to help you make a good decision.

We've updated this list using cross-referenced vehicle specifications, owner reviews, safety ratings, recall information, and pricing data from manufacturer websites, online car groups, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Hagerty, Classic.com, CarComplaints, the NHTSA, Edmunds, Repairpal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports (CR).

Although it has had its fair share of issues, the Impala has impressed with its spaciousness, capable engine options, and ride comfort. Generally, it has an above-average reliability rating, and there are many fine models out there to choose from. With proper and regular maintenance, the Impala will run for 150,000 or more miles before needing any major repairs. Even with this, the evolution of the Impala hasn't been rosy all the way – there are some model years, especially those from the early 2000s, that you should avoid. So, here's a ranking of the 12 best Chevrolet Impala models to buy used.

12 2010 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $5,334 - $12,590

Although the 2010 Impala's handling is sluggish compared to class rivals, that's the trade-off for the smooth ride that makes the large sedan desirable. With the SS model discontinued, the 2010 Impala only featured two efficient, responsive, and dependable V6 power units. Powering the LS and LT grades of this Impala is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 211 hp and 216 pound-feet of torque.

The range-topping LTZ, meanwhile, features a 3.9-liter V6 with 230 horses and 235 lb-ft of torque. All 2010 Chevy Impala models are front-wheel drive, with power distribution handled by a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance aside, the 2010 Chevrolet Impala is also famous for its reliability. J.D. Power gave it a great reliability rating of 86, meaning it can last 150,000 miles before needing major repairs. Over the years, Chevy has recalled the 2010 Impala four times over issues with the seat belt assembly, ignition switch, and lower control arms.

2010 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

11 2008 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $4,775 - $6,150

According to RepairPal, the most common issues with the 2008 Impala include leaky intake manifold gasket, erratic shifting, jolting while driving, and stuck ignition key. Nevertheless, it is a good car that performed well in NHTSA crash tests and can last up to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.

Furthermore, worthy of note is that Chevy has only recalled this Impala iteration twice, once over issues with the ignition switch and once due to faulty lower control arms. Nevertheless, the 2008 Impala is a popular, spacious, and comfortable car that's adequately powered by three powerful and efficient engine choices. These include a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine making 211 hp and 214 pound-feet of torque, a 3.9-liter V6 with 233 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, as well as a healthy 5.3-liter V8 that's good for 303 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque. Hence, those seeking muscle should consider the 303-hp V8 unit, which powers the Chevrolet Impala SS to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds and clears the quarter mile in around 14 seconds.

2008 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

10 2012 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $10,923 - $14,990

Undoubtedly, the 2012 Chevrolet Impala is one of the best Impalas money can buy. The 9th-generation Impala (2006 - 2014) had a refresh for the 2012 model year, and this large car gained more standard features while still delivering a comfortable ride in a spacious cabin. Among the features that became standard on this model are Bluetooth, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a six-speed automatic transmission that enhances both performance and fuel economy. The 2012 Impala also became more powerful, thanks to a new velvety-smooth 3.6-liter V6 mill making 300 hp and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine returns an impressive 18 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Despite a better-than-average reliability rating, Chevy has recalled the 2012 Impala three times over faults with the ignition switch, power steering hose, and lower control arms. Nonetheless, the 2012 Chevrolet Impala is a sturdy car that rewards the owner with a life expectancy of up to 200,000 miles, depending on how well they care for it.

2012 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

9 1961 Chevrolet Impala SS 409

Average Used Car Price: $69,384

When the Impala SS first arrived for the 1961 model year, shoppers could install it on any 1961 Impala model, including station wagons and four-door sedans. At the top of the engine lineup for the SS package was a new 409 cubic-inch (6.7-liter) V8 that's good for 360 hp and 409 lb-ft of torque.

Hooked to a four-speed manual transmission, it took the Impala SS to 60 mph in a swift 6.7 seconds and through the quarter-mile in 15.2 seconds. Built like a tank, the legendary 1961 SS 409 featured a reinforced chassis with firmer suspension, power steering, and power brakes.

1961 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

8 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS

Average Used Car Price: $22,500

Having first sold the Impala SS (short for Super Sport) between 1961 and 1969, Chevy revived the nameplate between 1994 and 1996. Based on the Chevrolet Caprice cop car, the 1996 Impala SS got a sport-tuned suspension, LT1 5.7-liter V8, four-wheel disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, and a transmission cooler.

For 1996, the 260 hp V8 engine got an OBD-II computer control system and could launch the SS to 60 mph in 7 seconds. Furthermore, these SS models not only deliver driving fun but are also able to last for a long time.

1996 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

7 1959 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $156,945

Boasting the flowing lines, rounded panels, and unmistakable tailfins characteristic of the 1950s era, the 1959 Chevrolet Impala had one of the most distinctive silhouettes of its time. Available in both hard-top and convertible guises, the 1959 Impala came in 2-door and 4-door formats.

1959 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

6 1963 Chevrolet Impala Z11 Lightweight

Used Car Price Range: $84,000 - $355,000

With car manufacturers battling for drag strip dominance, Chevrolet offered a special package on the 1963 Impala to compete against the big drag cars from Ford and Plymouth/Dodge. Created for drag racers and NASCAR enthusiasts, the Z11 boasted several lightweight body parts and came without nonessential equipment like radios, heaters, and sound-deadening materials.

Under the hood, it gained a monstrous 427 V8 power plant, tuned to crank out a whopping 430 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque. Tough, reliable, and fast, it could hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and clear the quarter-mile in a blistering 10.8 seconds.

1963 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

5 1969 Chevrolet Impala SS 427

Used Car Price Range: $30,000 - $66,000

Before it returned in 1994, the Impala SS was last offered in 1969. The 1969 Impala came standard with a 427-ci V8 engine. That big block was available in two versions, with the more powerful one cranking out 425 hp. The massive mill moved this Impala out with gusto, making for exciting rides in the comfortable car. Boasting better suspension and brakes, the 1969 Chevy Impala SS 427 was a well-rounded big muscle car.

1969 Chevy Impala SS 427 Specs And Performance

4 2015 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $9,852 - $15,143

The 2015 Chevrolet Impala is the 2nd model year of its final generation. For this model year, the Impala received a new gasoline/CNG bi-fuel variant as well as standard 4G data and WiFi hotspot capability across all trims. All 2015 Chevy Impalas come with a 6-speed automatic transmission and FWD. The base 2.5-liter I4 engine generates 195 hp and 187 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 3.6-liter V6 for the LT and LTZ trims produces 305 hp and 264 lb-ft of twist.

Among all final-generation (2014 - 2020) Chevy Impalas, only the 2015 model received a perfect 5/5 reliability rating from Consumer Reports. J.D. Power also chimed in with a "great" 85/100 quality and reliability rating for the 2015 Impala.

2015 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

3 2018 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $15,613 - $27,590

The 2018 Chevrolet Impala is a solid and well-equipped choice of transport for a buyer looking for an affordable family car. Besides shining in terms of cabin room and cargo space, it also features a user-friendly MyLink infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, navigation, and satellite radio.

Tuned for comfort, this model is available with a wide range of convenience features, especially in the Premier trim, where you'll find niceties such as a power-adjustable passenger seat, heated front seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a sunroof.

The 2018 Chevy Impala also delivers a comfortable and quiet ride, composed handling, and an optional 305 hp V6 engine for strong and effortless acceleration. The 2018 Impala has a great 88/100 J.D. Power reliability rating, and has had just one recall, which says a lot about its dependability.

2018 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

2 2016 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $16,590 - $18,990

For 2016, Chevy cut the Impala lineup down to four trims (LS, 1LT, 2LT, and 2LTZ) powered by a standard 196-hp 2.5-liter inline-four, but the 2016 Chevrolet Impala also had an available 305-hp 3.6-liter V6. Although it has an average reliability score, the 2016 Impala is a solid car that will give you value for your money.

It boasts a large cargo hold (18.8 cubic feet of trunk room), a roomy and comfortable cabin, as well as a broad array of advanced tech features, including a 4.2-inch color display, a Wi-Fi hotspot, satellite radio, a USB port, and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims add the MyLink infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, additional USB ports, Apple CarPlay, a wireless smartphone charger, navigation, voice controls, Bluetooth audio connectivity, and HD radio. Apart from the fact that very few owners have complained about it, there haven't been any safety recalls for the 2016 Impala so far.

2016 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance

1 2020 Chevrolet Impala

Average Used Car Price: $20,499 - $23,698

For its last model year, the 2020 Impala boasted several good attributes that made it one of the best large cars for the money. It offers a spacious cabin, large trunk, supple ride, and an easy-to-use infotainment system with wireless connectivity, navigation, and an available 11-speaker premium Bose stereo system.

The sole powertrain, a 305 hp 3.6-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, has no trouble getting the large sedan up to speed. Furthermore, it has a great J. D. Power reliability rating (82/100), a high NHTSA safety rating, and has not had any recalls.

2020 Chevy Impala Specs And Performance