2006 Chevrolet Impala
By Keith Buglewicz
On Sale: Fall 2005
Expected Pricing: $22,000-$29,000
The 2006 Chevrolet Impala boasts big changes. All new sheetmetal, an all-new, more versatile interior and a host of engine choices round out this stalwart Chevy nameplate.
The new styling won't win awards, but it significantly cleans up the previous car's unadmired lines. The new Chevy corporate face (think of Cobalt, only bigger) and cleaned up taillights go a long way toward improving the looks of the car. The rest of the shape is honed as well, with no body panel carried over.
Inside, the story is the same, with much improved materials, fit, finish and styling to greet potential Impala buyers.
Under the hood, Impala now has a choice of three engines. The base and mid-level V6 engines are new, using variable valve timing and a host of other modern tricks. The 3.5-liter version boasts 210 horsepower, more standard power than before, and more than some competitive vehicles' top engine.
The up-level engine is 3.9 liters, with a variable length intake manifold and 240 horsepower.
But the big news is the return of V8 power to the Impala SS. The 5.3-liter engine develops 303 horsepower and features displacement on demand, which shuts off half the cylinders in certain light-load conditions to save fuel. The Impala uses front-wheel drive, however, which will limit the appeal of the SS to enthusiasts.
1-800-950-2438
www.chevy.com
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