2006 Chevy Impala

Chevy has moderately updated this venerable marquee, dating back to 1958, for 2006; the Impala gains a small-block V-8 power train, a new group of 16- , 17- and 18-inch wheels and improved antilock brakes and traction control. The suspension has also been retuned and the track width increased slightly. The model is offered in four trim levels: LS, LT, LTZ and SS.

Chevy has also introduced a new series of V-6 engines which offer cam phasing for increased performance and fuel economy. The base models offer a new 3.5-liter V-6 that turns in 210 hp and 220 pounds-feet of torque. Pricier versions supply 240-hp via a 3.9-liter V-6 offering 245 pounds-feet of torque. The SS sedan models contain a new LS4 5.3-liter V-8 that produces 303 hp and 323 pounds-feet of torque.

This engine also features Displacement On Demand technology, which switches between four- and eight-cylinder modes depending on need. Chevrolet's marketing material claims that this system will result in fuel-economy improvements approaching 12 percent.

Grab-style door handles and larger-than-average headlamps ornament the Impala's exterior. Wiper technology has been improved through the use of flat blades, which hug the glass more closely then standard vertical blades.

The SS sedans offer an unusual look on the front end, sporting a split grille with an embedded black-diamond pattern. These models also quote the Corvette via their shiny tailpipes. A rear spoiler comes standard on the SS and the LTZ, and is optional for the LT.

Inside, the Impala holds either five or six passengers, depending on which front-seat system the buyer chooses. All seats cushions have been made firmer than in previous models, and lumbar support has been improved throughout as well. Chevy has introduced an innovative rear-seat design, allowing the seats to be folded away to uncover a storage area which offers nicely designed bag hooks. The seats can also be folded to offer access to the trunk.

The redesigned instrument panel, which also quotes the design styling of earlier corvette models, wraps into the door panels. GM's OnStar communication system comes standard; Options include automatic dual-zone climate control and a remote starter that automatically warms or cools the car before entry.

Eight-stage heating is available in the power driver's seat and a six-stage heating in the passenger seat are available in sedans outfitted with leather seating surfaces.

Impala buyers have a choice of three sound systems:. An up market CD/MP3 radio, which is ready for XM Satellite Radio operation; an ICDX radio, which features an in-dash six-CD changer and a top-of-the-line system offering a premium Bose sound system.