But how can it be so thrifty with only a 4-speed automatic transmission? Everyone knows that 5-speed automatics, currently all the rage, are better for both performance and fuel economy. Possibly there's more marketing spin in that premise than reality, as the Impala beats the odds. It's a nice transmission too, reacting to the throttle with immediate downshifts followed by quick but smooth upshifts between gear intervals.
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| The large leather seats can be slippery around corners if you're small in stature. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
What about handling? Actually the Impala LS with the upgraded wheels isn't too bad around the corners. But then again the seat leather is a little slippery and there's not much side bolstering to hold smaller bodies in place, causing me to slide from side to side in my chair while trying to negotiate a set of tight curves.
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| The Impala interior's so-so fit and finish, '80s styling and throwback ergonomics seems more than a little dated. But the back seat can carry three criminals in relative comfort. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
While disconcerting I managed to hold on, gripping the steering wheel with my left hand and passenger seat with the right, but it was hardly art in motion. I think the Impala's broad seats are best for someone with a larger frame than I, and there are plenty that tower over my 5'8" height so it should have no shortage of prospects. The rest of the cabin is as large, especially the rear seating area that is roomy enough for three adult criminals to relax in comfort.
From a styling perspective the interior is a little anachronistic, lost somewhere in the eighties. But hey, people have said the same about me so I can hardly be critical. But while I'm a little soft around the middle the Impala's plastics are a little too hard giving it the perception of lower quality, while its switchgear doesn't exhibit the solid feeling of confidence associated with Impalas of yesteryear.
