How fast do Chevy Impalas go?
Across its generations, a Chevy Impala's top speed and acceleration depend on the engine and trim. Typical figures range from roughly 125 mph for most V6 versions to about 155 mph for the high-performance SS, with 0-60 mph times spanning about 5.5 seconds for the SS to roughly 9 seconds for economy-oriented or hybrid variants. Note that Chevrolet ended Impala production for the U.S. market after the 2020 model year, so current Impalas are available only as used vehicles.
Speed by Powertrain
To understand how speed varies, here are representative snapshots of performance by powertrain.
Impala SS (2006-2009): top speed around 155 mph; 0-60 mph in roughly 5.4–5.6 seconds.
Non‑SS V6 models (2014-2020): top speed about 130 mph; 0-60 mph typically in the 6.6–7.0 second range.
Earlier non‑SS V6 models (2000-2013): top speed generally in the 125–140 mph range; 0-60 mph around 7.5–8.5 seconds.
Hybrid/eAssist models (2013-2014): slower acceleration, roughly 0-60 mph in 8–9 seconds; top speed around 125–130 mph.
These figures illustrate how performance improved with the introduction of more modern V6s and, for a brief period, a mild-hybrid option, while the SS remained the sole high‑performance variant.
What Affects Real-World Speed
Several factors influence how fast an Impala can actually go in real-world conditions, beyond the published numbers.
- Engine and transmission condition, maintenance history, and fuel quality.
- Vehicle weight and trim level; optioned equipment adds mass that can affect acceleration and top speed.
- Tire type, size, and wear; speed rating and grip directly impact acceleration and top speed potential.
- Electronic governors and drive-by-wire tuning; many models limit top speed to protect components.
- Altitude and outside temperature; hot or high-altitude conditions can reduce performance.
In practice, a well-maintained, properly equipped Impala will meet the typical ranges described above, but individual results can vary significantly based on the factors listed.
Speed for Buyers and Owners
For prospective buyers or current owners, the main takeaway is that Impala performance spans a broad spectrum. If speed is a priority, the SS variant from the 2006–2009 era is the standout, while most non‑SS Impalas offer solid highway capability and comfortable cruising with moderate acceleration figures. Since new Impalas aren’t being built for the U.S. market anymore, performance data from used examples should be considered in the context of maintenance history and wear.
Summary
Chevy Impalas display a wide performance range: the high‑performance SS tops out around 155 mph with 0-60 times in the mid‑5 seconds, while modern non‑SS V6 models typically reach about 130 mph and sprint to 60 in about 6.5–7 seconds. Older V6 models sit a bit lower, generally in the 125–140 mph band with 0-60 times near 7.5–8.5 seconds. Real-world speed depends on maintenance, tires, weight, and electronics; and with the Impala no longer in U.S. production after 2020, these figures apply to used examples rather than new ones.
