In a move that will see the next generation Chevrolet Impala return to its rear-drive sedan roots, some photos have been released as a speculative look at what the next iteration of the bestseller may look like.
Built off of the same Zeta architecture which will house the new Camaro, the Impala can be made larger in order to demonstrate a stronger position in the brands model lineup and further separate it from the next generation Malibu which is due out in 2008.
The platform will also house the new Pontiac Grand Prix, allowing development costs to be spread over several vehicles thus improving return. The decision to update the platform also allows the American automaker to offer a wide choice of engines with upwards of 300 horsepower from a selection of V8 engines. The top-line engine is speculated to be a 6.2 litre V8 with upwards of 400 horsepower. The new 3.6 litre V6 and 5.3 litre V8 will also likely find their way under the hood.
A six speed automatic transmission is likely, and optional manual gearboxes are possible for high performance models.
Though a decision isn't expected for another year or so on the final look to the car, it appears that the bold styling and additional power will be adequate for GM to move the Impala forward and compete with other popular rear-drive sedans currently on the market.
Perhaps we'll see a police packaged version in the future too.
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| 2007 Chevrolet Impala (Photo: General Motors) |
The platform will also house the new Pontiac Grand Prix, allowing development costs to be spread over several vehicles thus improving return. The decision to update the platform also allows the American automaker to offer a wide choice of engines with upwards of 300 horsepower from a selection of V8 engines. The top-line engine is speculated to be a 6.2 litre V8 with upwards of 400 horsepower. The new 3.6 litre V6 and 5.3 litre V8 will also likely find their way under the hood.
A six speed automatic transmission is likely, and optional manual gearboxes are possible for high performance models.
Though a decision isn't expected for another year or so on the final look to the car, it appears that the bold styling and additional power will be adequate for GM to move the Impala forward and compete with other popular rear-drive sedans currently on the market.
Perhaps we'll see a police packaged version in the future too.