Chevrolet Announces Competitive Pricing for New 2006 Impala

That is especially true of the Impala's rear three-quarter view, where its triangular taillights feature a thin horizontal

A subtle decklid spoiler is also added in the LTZ trim level, as well as with the top-line SS. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

clear lens strip that flow towards the centre to meet a classy chrome accent in LTZ trim - a really nice touch. A subtle decklid spoiler is also added in this trim level, as well as with the top-line SS. It is available with the LT.

The greenhouse features the BMW-like Hofmeister kink at the rear quarter window, first introduced on a Chevy product with the performance-oriented black-on-black '94 to '96 Impala SS.

Like the Japanese, GM has made sure its new Impala delivers extremely tight panel gap tolerances of 3.5 mm or less, adding to the feeling of quality. Its grab-style door handles offer a substantial feel, an important human-machine interface.

What the new Impala will have over its imported rivals is engine power. While base cars will feature a new standard 3.5L V6, more powerful than the base engines from most competitors at 211-horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque, top-line SS models will feature a V8.

The new LS4 5.3L V8, developing 303-horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque, features GM's Displacement On Demand (DOD) technology to

The new LS4 5.3L V8, developing 303-horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque, features GM's Displacement On Demand (DOD) technology to save on fuel. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

save up to 8 percent on fuel. When the vehicle is under light loads, meaning it isn't coaxing a trailer or fully loaded cabin and trunk up a steep hill or isn't at full throttle, four of the engine's eight cylinders go into hibernation. The system allows up to 12 percent savings in fuel, which should make a difference in the pocketbook considering today's exorbitant gasoline prices. The transition from eight to four and then four to eight cylinders is virtually seamless, and full power is available at the touch of the throttle, so its one of those rare "have your cake and eat it too" benefits.