New for 2015
Changes for 2015 are limited to the addition of OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability, a start-stop system for the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a bi-fuel natural gas powertrain option, and some new exterior colors.
Out of Retirement and Into Greatness
The Chevrolet Impala is one of the legends from what is arguably the golden age of American cars. Bedecked in chrome and big enough to swallow a Smart car, they became symbols of prosperity and coolness in the 1950s and ‘60s. But while the great American land yacht is a thing of the past, the Impala lives on.
The 2015 Impala combines the best of classic Impalas with the best of what 50 years of engineering progress can offer. It offers appealing styling and a spacious interior, but with fuel-efficient engines and a list of tech features that includes everything from navigation to a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
Powertrains and Performance
Past Impalas brandished big, gas guzzling V8 engines, but the 2015 model goes a more efficient route with engines that use much less fuel, but still offer a satisfying driving experience.
Base models get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 196 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All Impala models use a six-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive. EPA-rated gas mileage for the four-cylinder is 25 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway).*
The optional engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that’s shared with several other General Motors models. In the Impala, it produces 305 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque, which Chevy says is best-in-class for a naturally-aspirated six-cylinder engine. EPA-rated fuel economy is 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 28 mpg highway).*
The Impala is also one of the only new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. that can be configured to run on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG), which produces lower levels of greenhouse-gas emissions and is generally cheaper, too. This “bi-fuel” model uses the 3.6-liter V6, but with hardened valves and vale seats for better durability when used with CNG.
In the bi-fuel configuration, the V6 produces 260 hp on gasoline, or 230 hp on CNG. Its trunk-mounted tank can hold the equivalent of 7.7 gallons of gasoline, enough for 119 miles of driving on natural gas. Total driving range on both natural gas and gasoline is 500 miles. EPA-rated fuel economy is 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway) on gasoline,* or 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway) on natural gas.*
Features and Trims
The 2015 Chevrolet Impala is a four-door, five-seat full-size sedan. It’s available in five trim levels, with prices starting at $27,885.**
Standard equipment on the base LS model includes OnStar 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hot spot (separate data plan required), power driver’s seat, 4.2-inch diagonal information display, SiriusXM satellite radio, and more.
Moving up to the 1LT model nets features like outside heated power-adjustable mirrors, 18-inch alloy wheels, an 8.0-inch display screen, SD card slot, multiple USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, on top of the applicable standard features from the LS model. The 2LT includes all of the 1LT features, but with the 3.6-liter V6 engine instead of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder.
On top of those features, the 1LTZ model adds dual-outlet exhaust, HID headlights, 19-inch machined-face alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, chrome trim, heated front seats, remote, keyless engine start, and other features. As with the 2LT, the 2LTZ allows buyers to upgrade to the V6 engines. In addition to the standard equipment, Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system with navigation is optional, along with an 11-speaker Bose audio system, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Exterior/Interior
The Impala was completely redesigned for the 2014 model year, and carries over to 2015 visually unchanged. The design evokes classic Impala models from the 1960s, but still looks modern and fresh. The profile is long and low, with a six-window greenhouse that preserves visibility. The front end borrows heavily from the Camaro, giving the Impala a sporty appearance.
The interior also recalls the 1960s in the best way possible. It features a “dual-cockpit” design not unlike what you’d find on a vintage Corvette, which divides the cabin into distinct spheres for the driver and front passenger. Available ambient lighting, soft-touch materials, and high-quality stitching give the Impala an upscale feel befitting the flagship of Chevy’s sedan lineup.
A standard 4.2-inch driver-information display is placed between analog gauges, while an available 8.0-inch center-stack screen controls the optional MyLink system. Standard OnStar 4G LTE ensures connectivity is never an issue. The built-in Wi-Fi hot spot can support up to seven devices.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Chevrolet Impala includes anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control, and 10 airbags. Optional features include a rearview camera, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear park assist system.
Bottom Line
The 2015 Chevrolet Impala brings a classic nameplate into the 21st century.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive of this or any of our other Chevrolet models, be sure to contact us at 3Birds Template today
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices list are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other charges.
Image: Chevrolet
