2014 Chevrolet Impala review

1. Two engine options offer choice 

The 2014 Impala offers drivers the choice between two engine types. The first — offered as the default on LS, LT, and LTZ trims as well as a hybrid the LS Eco and LT Eco — is a 2.5L, four-cylinder engine delivering 196 horsepower. The second, available only on LT and LTZ trims, is a 3.6L, V6 engine boasting 305 horsepower. Keep an eye out for the one that suits your needs. 

2. Hybrid powertrain option 

The standard 2.5L engine may be less powerful, but they also get considerably more fuel economy over their V6 siblings. For instance, the non-hybrid LS gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway, and the LS Eco gets 24 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway.

  Meanwhile, the 3.6L V6 gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.  If fuel economy is a priority for you, consider the trade-offs between engine specs and mpg.   

3. Capable steering and handling 

The LS and LT trims on the 2014 Chevrolet Impala come with 18-inch wheels, while the LTZ bumps it up to a diameter of 19 inches. Meanwhile, the 2014 Impala also comes with an electric rack-and-pinion steering system, a tight turning circle, and a variable-effort feature. Together, these specs form the foundation of the 2014 Impala’s confident steering and help keep the vehicle firmly planted on the ground even in inclement weather.   

4. Important trim differentials 

Several basic features come standard on all trims, including Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity, USB ports, satellite radio capability, and a six-speaker stereo system. After that, there are some notable differences between the base LS trim and the upper LT and LTZ trims. For example, the Bluetooth® on the LT and LTZ trims can handle wireless audio streaming. The LS has a basic audio system with AM/FM radio, CD player, and MP3 playback, while the LT and LTZ come with the Chevrolet MyLink touchscreen infotainment system.   

5. Optional 11-speaker Bose® sound system  

The LS, LT, and LTZ all carry a standard built-in six-speaker audio system, but while shopping around you might find a 2014 Chevy Impala LT or LTZ with the optional 11-speaker Bose® surround sound system. It'll give you a clear sound that's great for music and audiobooks. This can be an important differentiator if you like to pump up the volume while cruising around.