2009 Chevrolet Impala - Styling Review

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Most reviewers agree that the styling of the 2009 Chevrolet Impala lacks inspiration.

Edmunds says the Impala received a “classy exterior freshening” a few years ago, discarding the “old electric-stove taillamps that looked more GE than GM.” The Impala’s "anonymous styling," as Car and Driver calls it, might have been overlooked in recent years. Today, though, sedans like the Honda Accord, the Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet’s own Malibu have set a new standard for family sedans—one the Impala can’t match. That said, the generous headlights that sweep back along the sides of the hood, along with its unique twin grille openings, lend the Impala a hint of modernity.

For a bit more visual excitement, there’s an SS version; Kelley Blue Book says this model sports a rear spoiler and five-spoke aluminum wheel covers for those who appreciate a racier appearance. Cars.com notes the SS "exhibits a distinct front-end look, led by a dual-split grille that contains a black-diamond crosshatch pattern."

Edmunds describes the interior of the Impala as "functional and straightforward," with "all the visual pizzazz of The Wall Street Journal." Car and Driver says the "overall look is pleasing enough, with a dark gray upper and lighter lower dash separated by faux wood, and the control layout is wonderfully simple and logical," but adds that "the featureless black plastic on the center stack and instrument cluster is almost insulting." Cars.com reports "nuance sandstone leather seating with French seams on the center cushions."