2016 Chevrolet Impala
New for 2016
For 2016, the Impala adds available Apple CarPlay® and wireless phone charging. Fans of the four-cylinder LTZ will be left slightly disappointed as it has been dropped, while LT models gain optional leather upholstery.
Out of Retirement and Into Greatness
The Chevrolet Impala remains a legend from America's Golden Age of automobiles, one where muscle and chrome reigned supreme. But like any good model should, the Impala has evolved with the times, moving beyond its legendary land yacht status and into the modern era as one stylish and technologically advanced sedan.
Powertrains and Performance
Past Impalas brandished big, gas guzzling V8 engines, but the 2016 model benefits from more than 50 years of engineering progress. Instead of just pure power, the Impala 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 2016 Chevrolet Impala is a four-door, five-seat full-size sedan. It’s available in four trim levels, with prices starting at $27,095.**
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. For 2016, the 1LT adds Apple CarPlay® to the mix, which should please drivers thanks to its handy features and intuitve control.
The 2LT includes all of the 1LT features, but with the 3.6-liter V6 engine instead of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder.
As with the 2LT, the 2LTZ allows buyers to upgrade to a V6 engine. 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.
Design
The Impala's 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 2016 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 2016 Chevrolet Impala is a roomy five-passenger sedan that will satisfy your practical needs while also appealing to the enthusiast in you. What's more, the 2016 Impala does an admiral job living up to its legendary name, while also employing the latest technologies to make it one truly compelling sedan.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive of this or any of our other Chevrolet models, be sure to contact us at Lynch Ford Chevrolet today
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Includes destination freight charge and gas guzzler tax.
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