As vehicle models move through their life cycle and into the used car market, common problems show themselves, owners chat about their experiences, and the good buys tend to separate themselves from the bad.
Looking back to the 2000 to 2005 Chevrolet Impala is a perfect example of the above. Though the current generation Impala has been on sale for years, the previous model stands out as a good buy in an affordable, comfortable sedan— if you know what to look for.
When Impala returned to the market after 2 leaves of absence and 6 previous generations, it came with a front-drive platform, handsome styling and a number of powertrain and interior options. Filling the hole left by the Lumina in the Chevrolet lineup at the time, Impala offered a fairly comprehensive package to shoppers.
The Oshawa-built Impala offered two initial engine options. Both were V6 configurations, with either 3.4 or 3.8 litres of displacement. Look for horsepower in the 180 to 200 range, and the availability of a supercharged 3.8 litre engine later in the Impala’s life on the tweaked-up SS model.
In any case, the Impala was offered solely with front-drive with a four-speed automatic transmission. It could seat up to 6 people courtesy of a front bench-seat, and came with features like ABS brakes, side airbags, traction control and cruise. Air conditioning, power accessories and even a sunroof could be present as well, depending on the model, year and trim level you select.
Higher-end Impalas even got tire pressure monitoring, a power driver’s seat, heated leather seating surfaces, a compass, and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. Fog-lamps, a spoiler and larger wheels were available for dress up. Look for OnStar and satellite radio too.
Last-gen Impala owners tended to enjoy the handsome and understated styling, as well as the comfortable and easy-to-access interior. The six-person seating configuration is a plus for some, as was the generous trunk. Most owners report satisfaction with their fuel mileage—interesting given that Impala was not available with a 4-cylinder engine.
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| 2000 Chevrolet Impala |
Looking back to the 2000 to 2005 Chevrolet Impala is a perfect example of the above. Though the current generation Impala has been on sale for years, the previous model stands out as a good buy in an affordable, comfortable sedan— if you know what to look for.
When Impala returned to the market after 2 leaves of absence and 6 previous generations, it came with a front-drive platform, handsome styling and a number of powertrain and interior options. Filling the hole left by the Lumina in the Chevrolet lineup at the time, Impala offered a fairly comprehensive package to shoppers.
The Oshawa-built Impala offered two initial engine options. Both were V6 configurations, with either 3.4 or 3.8 litres of displacement. Look for horsepower in the 180 to 200 range, and the availability of a supercharged 3.8 litre engine later in the Impala’s life on the tweaked-up SS model.
In any case, the Impala was offered solely with front-drive with a four-speed automatic transmission. It could seat up to 6 people courtesy of a front bench-seat, and came with features like ABS brakes, side airbags, traction control and cruise. Air conditioning, power accessories and even a sunroof could be present as well, depending on the model, year and trim level you select.
Higher-end Impalas even got tire pressure monitoring, a power driver’s seat, heated leather seating surfaces, a compass, and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. Fog-lamps, a spoiler and larger wheels were available for dress up. Look for OnStar and satellite radio too.
Last-gen Impala owners tended to enjoy the handsome and understated styling, as well as the comfortable and easy-to-access interior. The six-person seating configuration is a plus for some, as was the generous trunk. Most owners report satisfaction with their fuel mileage—interesting given that Impala was not available with a 4-cylinder engine.
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| 2003 Chevrolet Impala |