Do Chevy Impalas use a lot of gas?

The short answer: not particularly for a full-size sedan. In recent years, four-cylinder and mild-hybrid variants tend to be fairly efficient, while the V6 versions consume more fuel. Real-world mileage varies with driving style and conditions.

What qualifies as "a lot" depends on the model year, engine, and how you drive. This article explains typical fuel economy by engine, factors that affect efficiency, and practical tips to maximize mpg in an Impala, whether you’re looking at late-model used cars or reminiscing about older generations.

Engine choices and typical fuel economy

Engine-specific outlook

Below are the main engines offered in the recent Impala lineup and what you might expect in everyday driving. MPG figures vary by model year, trim, and test cycle, so check the EPA ratings for the exact configuration you’re considering.

• 2.5-liter inline-4 with eAssist mild-hybrid (used in some mid-2010s Impalas): generally more fuel-efficient, with higher highway efficiency and lower city consumption compared with the V6. Real-world mileage often in the mid-20s to upper-20s mpg combined, with highway values in the upper 20s to low 30s.


• 3.6-liter V6: offers stronger performance but lower fuel economy, typically around the low- to mid-20s mpg combined, with city in the teens and highway around the high-20s to low-30s depending on year and configuration.

Several model years also offered other powertrains or trims, but the two above cover the bulk of production in the last generation. In practice, the four-cylinder/eAssist option delivers noticeably better efficiency than the V6, especially on highway cruising, while the V6 prioritizes power and acceleration.

Real-world factors that affect MPG

Fuel economy is not fixed and can vary widely based on how you drive and maintain the car. The following factors frequently have the biggest impact on an Impala’s MPG.

• Driving style: aggressive acceleration and hard braking dramatically reduce mpg; steady speeds and gentle throttle improve efficiency.


• Maintenance: timely oil changes, clean air filters, and properly inflated tires help sustain optimal fuel economy.


• Payload and aerodynamics: extra weight and roof racks or cargo boxes raise energy use and reduce highway efficiency.


• Weather and road conditions: cold starts, headwinds, hills, and rough roads can lower mileage.


• Transmission behavior: automatic transmissions with appropriate gear selection and minimal gear hunting help performance.


• Tire choice: low-rolling-resistance tires can improve mpg, while worn or oversized tires can hinder it.

Maintaining the vehicle and adopting efficient driving habits can yield noticeable gains, especially on highway commutes where Impalas excel in fuel efficiency with the right setup.

Tips to maximize fuel economy in the Impala

Implement these practical steps to squeeze more miles out of each gallon, regardless of engine or model year.

• Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and rotate them as advised.


• Use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed.


• Plan trips to minimize idling and consolidate errands to reduce overall mileage.


• Observe smooth acceleration and deceleration; anticipate traffic to avoid unnecessary braking.


• Remove unnecessary roof racks or cargo when not in use to reduce drag.


• Schedule regular maintenance, use the recommended fuel grade, and replace air filters as needed.

Note that some Impala trims offer an Eco or similar mode that can adjust throttle response and transmission shift patterns to favor efficiency; enabling this mode in appropriate conditions can help, though it may reduce acceleration.

Summary

Overall, the Chevy Impala is not unusually gas-intensive for a full-size sedan. Its fuel economy depends heavily on engine choice and driving habits. For the best mpg, look for a 2.5L four-cylinder with, if available, mild-hybrid assist, and drive with a smooth, steady style and properly maintained systems. If you need higher performance at the cost of fuel economy, the V6 returns more power but uses more fuel. Always check EPA estimates for the exact model year and trim you’re considering to compare apples to apples.

Are Chevy Impalas good on gas?

Chevy Impalas are not considered "good" on gas, especially compared to modern sedans, though their mileage varies by model year and engine. Newer models with a four-cylinder engine get an estimated 22 mpg city/28-30 mpg highway, while V6 models have lower ratings around 18-19 mpg city/28 mpg highway. Some older V6 models achieve better highway mileage than newer V6 models, but their overall fuel efficiency is not outstanding.
 
Newer models (2014-2020)

• 4-cylinder: An estimated 22 mpg city/28-30 mpg highway. 
• V6: An estimated 18-19 mpg city/28 mpg highway. 

Older models (2006-2013)

• 3.5L V6: Around 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway.
• 5.3L V8 (SS model): This engine is less fuel-efficient, with ratings of about 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway. 

Factors influencing fuel economy

• Engine size: The 4-cylinder engine is the most fuel-efficient option. 
• Driving conditions: City driving will result in lower mileage compared to highway driving. 
• Driving style: Aggressive driving, such as fast acceleration and hard braking, will reduce fuel economy. 
• Vehicle maintenance: Regularly maintaining your Impala can help ensure it runs as efficiently as possible. 

Conclusion
Overall, the Chevrolet Impala is not known for being fuel-efficient compared to some other sedans. However, the 4-cylinder models are relatively good on gas, while the V6 models are less so. If you are looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle, it is important to consider the specific model year and engine option.

What is the common problem with Chevy Impala?

Common problems with the Chevy Impala include transmission issues like failure and erratic shifting, particularly in older models, as well as engine concerns such as oil consumption and leaks from the intake manifold gasket. Other frequent complaints involve power steering leaks, steering system noises, and various electronics problems, including with the power locks and instrument panel. 
Engine and fuel system

• Oil consumption: Some models are known to burn excessive oil, which can be caused by worn piston rings or faulty valve seals. 
• Oil leaks: Leaks from the intake manifold gasket are a known issue. 
• Check Engine light: The "Check Engine" light can come on due to a loose gas cap or faulty mass air flow sensor. 
• Fuel gauge issues: Some owners report a fluctuating or inaccurate fuel gauge. 

This video explains some of the common problems with Chevy Impalas: 55sCars of QueensYouTube · May 27, 2021
Transmission and drivetrain

• Transmission failure/slipping: This is a very common problem, especially in models from the early to mid-2000s. 
• Erratic shifting: The transmission pressure control solenoid can fail, causing shifting problems. 
• Shifter issues: The ignition key can become stuck if the shifter fails. 

Steering and suspension

• Power steering leaks: Leaks in the high-pressure power steering hose can occur.
• Steering noises: A clunking noise from the upper intermediate steering shaft is a common complaint. 

Electrical and other issues

• Power locks: Power lock actuators can fail. 
• Heater problems: The heater system can experience issues. 
• Instrument panel problems: The speedometer and other gauges may work erratically. 
• Security system fault: Some models have issues with the security system causing the engine to stall after starting. 
• Body and interior: Wind noise, leaks around seals and weatherstripping, and problems with windows, locks, and latches have been reported. 

How many miles can a Chevy Impala go on a full tank?

A Chevy Impala can go anywhere from 220 to over 600 miles on a full tank, depending on the model year, engine, and driving conditions. A modern Impala with an 18.5-gallon tank and a 3.6L V6 engine can achieve an estimated range of up to 493 miles on the highway, while older models with smaller engines may have a shorter range. 
Factors affecting range

• Engine size: The 3.6L V6 engine in most modern Impalas offers better fuel economy than the smaller 2.5L 4-cylinder engines, resulting in a longer driving range. 
• Driving conditions: Highway driving yields a significantly longer range compared to city or stop-and-go traffic. 
• Model year: Different model years and specifications, such as the Bi-Fuel option, will have varying fuel economy and range. 
• Fuel type: Some specific models, like the Bi-Fuel Impala, can run on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG) and have a different range depending on the fuel type. 
• Vehicle maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as replacing O2 sensors, can help improve your car's gas mileage and extend your driving range. 

Examples of Impala range

• 2018 Impala (highway): Up to 400 miles on a full tank. 
• 2004 Impala (highway): Up to 493 miles on a full tank. 
• 2016 Impala with 3.6L V6 (highway): Up to 29 mpg, which translates to a range of approximately 536 miles on a full 18.5-gallon tank. 
• Bi-Fuel Impala (highway): Up to 600 miles on a full tank. 

Why is my Impala using so much gas?

Inspect oxygen sensors, as faulty ones can misreport air-fuel ratios, lowering efficiency. Also, verify the mass airflow sensor is clean and functioning. Regularly replacing air filters and using quality fuel additives can help maintain optimal combustion and prevent mileage decline over time.