The Impala is Chevrolet’s flagship full-size sedan. Three trim levels are available: LS, LT and LTZ. Impalas compete with the Ford Taurus, Chrysler 300 and Toyota Avalon.
The standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine now has standard flex-fuel capability, allowing it to burn gasoline or an ethanol blend of up to 85 percent (E85).
For 2011, the Impala gains body-colored bodyside moldings for all models. The Impala has a somewhat rounded shape for a sedan, with large, swept-back headlights as its distinguishing characteristic.
- LS and LT models have 16-inch wheels
- LTZ models have 18-inch wheels
Inside the Impala, flip-and-fold rear-seat cushions reveal a covered storage area and include grocery bag hooks. The rear seatback folds down to create a pass-through into the trunk. GM’s OnStar communication system is standard, and the Directions and Connections service that gives audio turn-by-turn directions from an OnStar operator is free for six months.
- Available Bose audio system with eight speakers
- Seating for five or six, depending on choice of front seat
- Standard dual-zone manual climate control on all models
- Standard illuminated vanity mirrors for driver and front passenger (LT and LTZ)
- Standard XM Satellite Radio (subscription sold separately)
- Available remote start
- Bluetooth phone connectivity available
Engines include a 3.5-liter V-6 and a 3.9-liter V-6. Both are flex-fuel engines that can run on ethanol-based E85.
- 211-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 with 215 pounds-feet of torque
- 230-hp, 3.9-liter V-6 with 238 pounds-feet of torque
- LTZ has sportier suspension
- Four-speed automatic transmission on all models
Side curtain airbags and seat belt pretensioners for the front seats are standard. Latch child-seat anchors are found in all second-row seating positions. OnStar includes GM’s Advanced Crash Response System, which makes crash data available to 911 centers.
- Stability control standard on all models
- Standard thorax side-impact airbags on all models
- Standard antilock brakes and traction control on all models
