2006 Chevy Impala Preview

So how will the new sedan fare? The Impala has always sold extremely well, especially on the fleet side of the market.

The Impala has always sold extremely well, especially on the fleet side of the market, and the new model should be no different. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

Altogether, the 4-door sedan has achieved over 1 million sales since it debuted in 1999, with an increase in market share starting at 2 percent in 1999 to 8 percent in 2003.

Dewar is bullish about both the Impala and Monte Carlo's sales potential, stating, "Mid-car represents the largest segment of the industry, and the '06 Impala and Monte Carlo will continue Chevy's leadership there."

Both will be built at GM's Oshawa, Ontario No. 1 plant, which has recently seen more than $350 million USD in upgrades. Oshawa No. 1 and No. 2 were recognized in J.D. Power's 2004 Initial Quality Survey for building two of the top five highest quality vehicles in the premium midsize segment, one of which was the Monte Carlo. This continues a yearly winning trend that started in 1999, when the new cars debuted.

In the end, the new Impala will no doubt yet again be fodder for police fleets around the country, but at least now we'll know

The combination of GM's high quality manufacturing process and a much more competitive midsize Impala, should give it a greater competitive edge than the previous model. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

our various cities' finest will be safer and more comfortable as they're using V8 power to catch us doing ten over on the expressway.

Now that it has been updated, there will be a greater number of regular folks stepping up to purchase the Chevy sedan too, each enjoying the power its un-intimidating grille incorporates in slowing surrounding traffic down to a grind as it passes by, a move that accompanies quick glances to the Impala's driver's seat from those getting passed, eyes straining to see an officer's patch on the shoulder. In a sick and twisted way, it is kind of fun.