Did they make a V8 Impala?
Yes. Chevrolet built Impalas powered by V8 engines across several generations, including classic big-block V8s in the 1950s–60s and a 5.7-liter V8 in the mid-1990s Impala SS. In later years, the Impala lineup shifted to V6 powertrains, and the model was discontinued in 2020 in the United States.
To understand what that means, here is a concise look at when V8 Impalas appeared, how the V8 option evolved, and what happened to the V8 option in Chevrolet's modern Impala lineup.
Classic era: V8 power in the mid-century Impalas
The early and mid-century Impalas could be equipped with robust V8 power, making the model a performance icon in its time.
- Big-block V8 options such as 348ci, 409ci, 427ci, and 454ci engines were offered in Impalas of the era, often in the high-performance SS variants.
These engines helped establish the Impala’s reputation for performance during the 1958–1969 period, particularly in the SS lineup.
Notable models
Among the most famous V8 Impalas from this era are the SS versions that showcased factory performance packages and distinctive styling cues.
Revival era: The mid-1990s Impala SS with a V8
The mid-1990s saw a rare return of a V8 option in a mainstream Impala with the SS badge.
- 1994–1996 Impala SS featured a 5.7-liter LT1 V8, delivering notable performance for a front-drive sedan of its time; standard Impalas of the period used V6 engines.
The LT1-powered Impala SS remains a standout chapter in the model’s history, illustrating Chevrolet’s willingness to offer a V8 in a mainstream sedan in that era.
Modern era and discontinuation
In the 2000s and 2010s, the Impala shifted to V6 powertrains as GM restructured its sedan lineup, and the model ultimately ended production in 2020 in the United States.
- From the late 1990s through the 2010s, Impalas used V6 engines (notably a 3.6L V6 in later years); there was no factory V8 option in these generations.
- The Impala nameplate was retired in 2020 as Chevrolet redirected resources toward SUVs and trucks.
Outside the United States, production and offerings varied, but the final U.S. model years did not include a V8 option.
Summary
In short, the Impala has indeed had V8 power across several generations, especially in the classic 1958–1969 era and briefly in the 1994–1996 Impala SS. Modern Impalas used V6 engines, and the model was discontinued in 2020 in the U.S. As a result, V8 Impalas remain a storied part of Chevrolet’s history rather than a current option.
