Tenth generation Impala sets the bar

Unique to the model were its six tail lights, which set it apart from lower trim levels with only two on a side. This classic styling cue would become its trademark. It was named after a southern African antelope.
The Impala became a separate model in 1959 in both two- and four-door versions and became the best-selling car in the Chevy product line. For 1960, it became the best-selling automobile in the United States and held that position for the next decade.
From 1958 until 1996, Impala sales were in excess of 13 million units, more than any other full-size car in the history of the automobile. In 1965, the Impala set an all-time industry annual sales record of more than one million units, which has never been bettered.
In 1965, Chevrolet introduced the Impala Caprice. Beginning with the four-door hardtop sedan body, Impala Caprices received unique upholstery, wood grained accents on the dashboard and specialty pulls on the insides of the doors.
A one-year model, the Impala Caprice was reintroduced as the Chevrolet Caprice in 1966, taking the top position in the Chevrolet line-up. The Impala, however, remained Chevrolet’s top-selling model until the late 1970s.
The 1971 redesign introduced the largest Impala. The Impala’s chassis would not be this extensively changed again until the introduction of the 2000 Impala.
The Impala is often credited with starting the muscle car era, although the credit for that really goes to Pontiac when it released the GTO. In the 1960s, gasoline was cheap and consumer demand for power exceeded the need for efficiency. Afraid it would lose out to an in-house competition, Chevy released its muscle car, the SS, soon after. In 1961, the Impala SS (Super Sport) was introduced to the market. The SS badge was to become Chevrolet’s signature of performance on many models, though it has often been an appearance package only.
The Impala’s SS package in 1961 was truly a performance package, beginning with the high-performance 348 in³ (5.7-lt) engines (available with 305, 340, and 350hp (230, 255 and 260 kW)) or the new 409 in³ (6.7 L), which was available with up to 425hp. The package also inclued upgraded tyres on station-wagon wheels, springs, shocks and special sintered metallic brake linings.
Starting in 1962, the Impala SS could be had with any engine available in the Impala, right down to the 235 in³ 135hp inline-6. With one exception, from this point until 1969, the SS was an appearance package only, though the heavy-duty parts and big engines could still be ordered.
The exception was the Z24 option package available in combination with the standard Z03 Super Sport package. Starting in 1967, through 1969, buyers of Z24s Impalas got cars badged as “SS427” models. The SS427 included heavy-duty suspension and other performance goodies, as well as a Turbo-Jet 427 in either L36 or L72 variations.
Interestingly, Z24 cars could be ordered without the Z03 SS package, which meant SS427 equipment but no bucket seats or center console.
The Impala SS could be identified by SS emblems on the rear fenders and trunk lid. The Impala SS became its own series (separate model rather than an option package) for 1964. In 1968, the Impala SS once more became an option package rather than having its own model. In 1969, the Impala SS was only available as the Z24 (SS427), coming only with a 427 in³ V8 of 390.
Chevrolet has completely redesigned the 2014 Impala – its iconic flagship sedan – with head-turning styling, greater interior spaciousness and advanced technologies never before available.
The 2014 Chevrolet Impala represents the 10th generation of one of the industry’s most enduring and popular nameplates. It has been America’s best-selling full-size sedan since 2004, with total sales of more than 169 000 in 2012.
It incorporates 10 standard air bags as well as a host of available safety technologies such as full-speed-range adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera and rear-park assist.
Chris Perry, vice-president Chevrolet marketing, “The 2014 Impala’s combination of efficiency, refinement, infotainment choices and driving confidence will reset the benchmark in its segment and affirm its position as Chevrolet’s flagship sedan.”
Impala’s V-6 engine will be the most powerful naturally aspirated engine in the segment. The car also receives a new, responsive electric power-steering system and enhanced suspension that provides customers with a confident driving experience.
The 2014 Impala will be offered with three engine choices, including two four-cylinder powertrains and a 3.6L V-6 engine available exclusively at launch. An Ecotec 2.4L engine with eAssist, will also be available towards end of 2014.
The Impala’s long, low proportion has a wind-swept profile that suggests motion, while the range of 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels is tailored to the body to provide that “just right” stance.
Although not available in South Africa, many readers would be able to relate anecdotes and experiences with the family’s Impala of years gone by.