The Chevrolet Impala, a nameplate with a heritage stretching back to the late 1950s, has seen its fair share of ups and downs. For decades, it was a symbol of American automotive prowess, a spacious and comfortable family sedan. But in a world increasingly dominated by SUVs and trucks, the Impala faced an uphill battle. Understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and, crucially, its resale value is key to determining if a used Impala is the right choice for you. Let's delve into what makes an Impala tick and whether it holds its value over time.
The Impala's Journey: From Classic to Contemporary (and Beyond)
The Impala's history is practically a history of the American car itself. From its iconic tailfins of the '50s to its boxy designs of the '80s, and finally, to the sleek, modern iterations of the 2000s and 2010s, the Impala has constantly evolved. The last generation, produced from 2014 to 2020, is what we'll primarily focus on here, as these are the models most commonly found on the used car market. While earlier generations have their appeal, they fall into a different category of classic or vintage vehicles, with resale values often driven by nostalgia and condition rather than practical transportation needs.
What Makes a 2014-2020 Impala Tick? A Deep Dive
The 2014-2020 Impala represented a significant step up from its predecessors. It was built on a modern platform, offered a comfortable ride, and boasted a stylish interior. Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
- Engine Options: The most common engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, providing adequate power and reasonable fuel economy. However, the real star was the 3.6-liter V6, offering significantly more pep and making the Impala genuinely enjoyable to drive.
- Interior Comfort and Space: The Impala excelled in this area. The cabin was spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The trunk was also impressively large, making it a great choice for families or anyone needing to haul a lot of cargo.
- Features and Technology: Depending on the trim level, the Impala offered a range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, leather seats, navigation, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning.
- Ride Quality: The Impala was known for its smooth and comfortable ride, soaking up bumps and providing a relaxed driving experience. This made it a great choice for long road trips.
- Reliability: While not without its potential issues (more on that later), the 2014-2020 Impala generally enjoys decent reliability ratings, particularly the models with the V6 engine.
The Good, the Bad, and the "Meh": Impala Pros and Cons
Let's cut to the chase and weigh the pros and cons of owning a 2014-2020 Chevrolet Impala:
Pros:
- Spacious and Comfortable: This is the Impala's biggest selling point. It's a genuinely comfortable car for both driver and passengers.
- Smooth Ride: The Impala excels at providing a smooth and relaxed driving experience.
- Available V6 Engine: The 3.6-liter V6 transforms the Impala from a competent sedan into a genuinely enjoyable one.
- Large Trunk: Plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or whatever else you need to haul.
- Generally Affordable: Used Impalas offer excellent value for money, especially compared to newer or more popular models.
Cons:
- Four-Cylinder Engine Can Feel Underpowered: If you prioritize performance, the four-cylinder engine might leave you wanting more.
- Some Reliability Concerns: Certain model years and components have been known to experience issues. Researching specific years and potential problems is crucial.
- Dated Interior Design: While comfortable, the interior design of the Impala can feel a bit dated compared to more modern competitors.
- Fuel Economy (V6): While not terrible, the V6 engine's fuel economy is not as good as the four-cylinder or some of its competitors.
- Discontinued Model: The Impala's discontinuation in 2020 might make some buyers hesitant, although parts availability shouldn't be a major concern for the foreseeable future.
"Meh":
- Styling: The Impala's styling is generally inoffensive but not particularly exciting. It's a handsome car, but it doesn't turn heads.
- Handling: The Impala prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. It's competent but not engaging to drive on twisty roads.
Resale Value Breakdown: How Much is Your Impala Worth?
This is the million-dollar question. The Impala, like many large sedans, has suffered from declining resale values in recent years due to the popularity of SUVs and trucks. However, this also makes it an attractive option for buyers looking for a lot of car for their money.
Here's a general overview of the resale values for 2014-2020 Impalas, based on condition, mileage, and trim level. These are estimates, and actual values can vary depending on your location and specific market conditions:
- 2014-2016 Models: These models typically range from ,000 to ,000, depending on condition and mileage. Lower trim levels with the four-cylinder engine will be on the lower end of the spectrum, while higher trim levels with the V6 and lower mileage will command higher prices.
- 2017-2019 Models: Expect to pay between ,000 and ,000 for these models. These years often benefited from minor updates and improvements, which can slightly increase their value.
- 2020 Models: As the final year of production, 2020 Impalas can command a slightly higher premium, ranging from ,000 to ,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim.
Factors Affecting Resale Value:
- Mileage: Lower mileage always translates to higher resale value.
- Condition: A well-maintained Impala with no accidents or major repairs will be worth significantly more than one that has been neglected.
- Trim Level: Higher trim levels, such as the LTZ (later Premier), with more features, will hold their value better.
- Engine: The V6 engine is generally more desirable and will increase the resale value compared to the four-cylinder.
- Location: Resale values can vary depending on your location. Areas with higher demand for sedans might see slightly higher prices.
- Color: Neutral colors like silver, white, and black tend to be more popular and easier to sell.
- Options: Features like leather seats, navigation, and advanced safety features can also positively impact resale value.
Tips for Maximizing Resale Value (If You're Selling):
- Keep Up with Maintenance: Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other scheduled maintenance are crucial for maintaining the value of your Impala.
- Keep it Clean: A clean and well-maintained interior and exterior will make a positive impression on potential buyers.
- Address Any Minor Repairs: Fixing small issues like scratches, dents, or malfunctioning features can significantly improve the perceived value of your car.
- Gather Your Records: Having a complete record of maintenance and repairs will give buyers confidence in the car's history.
- Price it Competitively: Research the market value of similar Impalas in your area and price your car accordingly.
Common Impala Issues to Watch Out For
While the 2014-2020 Impala is generally reliable, there are a few potential issues to be aware of:
- Transmission Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, particularly in earlier model years.
- Electrical Issues: Problems with the infotainment system, sensors, and other electrical components have also been reported.
- Fuel System Issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the fuel pump and fuel injectors.
- Air Conditioning Problems: Issues with the air conditioning system are not uncommon, particularly in older models.
- Recalls: Check for any outstanding recalls on the specific Impala you are considering.
Before buying a used Impala, it's always a good idea to:
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
- Check the vehicle history report (Carfax or AutoCheck).
- Test drive the car thoroughly.
Is an Impala Right for You? Consider These Questions
Deciding whether an Impala is the right car for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you need a spacious and comfortable car for passengers and cargo?
- Are you looking for a good value for your money?
- Do you prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride over sporty handling?
- Are you comfortable with potentially higher fuel costs if you opt for the V6 engine?
- Are you willing to do your research and potentially address any minor repairs?
If you answered "yes" to most of these questions, a used Chevrolet Impala could be a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Chevrolet Impala a reliable car? The 2014-2020 Impala is generally considered reliable, but some model years and components have been known to experience issues. A pre-purchase inspection is always recommended.
- What is the best engine for the Impala? The 3.6-liter V6 engine offers significantly more power and a more enjoyable driving experience than the four-cylinder.
- How much does it cost to maintain an Impala? The cost of maintaining an Impala is generally average for a large sedan. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is essential.
- What are the common problems with the Impala? Common problems include transmission issues, electrical problems, and fuel system issues. Checking for recalls is also crucial.
- Is the Impala a good family car? Yes, the Impala is an excellent family car due to its spacious interior, large trunk, and comfortable ride.
The Verdict: Impala - A Solid Choice for the Right Buyer
The Chevrolet Impala, particularly the 2014-2020 models, offers a compelling combination of spaciousness, comfort, and value. While its resale value has been impacted by the shift towards SUVs, this makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and comfortable large sedan. By doing your research, getting a pre-purchase inspection, and understanding the potential issues, you can find a used Impala that provides years of dependable service.