What is the top of the line Impala?
The top-of-the-line Impala is the Premier trim, the highest-spec version Chevrolet offered for the full-size sedan before production ended in 2020.
Defining the Premier trim
In its final years, the Impala lineup consisted of LS, LT, and Premier. The Premier trim distinguished itself through a combination of luxury appointments, enhanced technology, and stronger standard features, all aimed at delivering the most refined experience in the model’s range.
Before you review the features, note that Premier added upscale interior materials, advanced safety tech, and enhanced connectivity compared with the lower trims, making it the model’s definitive top tier during its production run.
- Leather-appointed seating with heated front seats and higher-end interior trim
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory settings
- Premium audio system (often a Bose setup) and a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Dual-zone automatic climate control and additional comfort amenities
- Advanced safety and driver-assistance features such as Forward Collision Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, and Rear Park Assist
- LED exterior lighting and larger wheel options
- Powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine (approximately 305 horsepower) paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
In short, Premier represents the pinnacle of comfort, technology, and performance available in the Impala during its final years.
Performance and specifications
The last-generation Impala Premier paired a 3.6-liter V6 with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering strong acceleration for a full-size sedan and a generally smooth, confident highway ride. The combination aimed to balance power with a comfortable, quiet cabin experience.
- Engine: 3.6L V6, about 305 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
These specs helped the Premier stand out in the segment for buyers seeking a roomy interior, robust power, and a feature-rich package in a sedan that could still handle daily driving with a touch of refinement.
Historical context and current status
Chevrolet discontinued the Impala after the 2020 model year, ending a long-running chapter for the big sedan in the United States. The Premier trim, as the top-tier configuration, thus represents the final high-spec Impala option offered by Chevrolet. Today, prospective buyers typically look to used-market listings, where condition and mileage heavily influence pricing.
Buying guidance for used Premier models
When shopping for a used Premier, prioritize documentation of service history, sensor-based safety system reliability, and the condition of leather interiors and electronics. Given the age of the model, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is wise to assess the climate control, transmission, and overall structural integrity.
Industry reviews from the era highlighted the Premier’s spacious interior, strong V6 performance, and generous feature set as key advantages, especially for buyers who valued ride comfort and tech integration in a full-size sedan.
Summary
The Premier trim of the Chevrolet Impala stands as the definitive top-tier version of the model, combining luxury interior touches, advanced technology, and a potent 3.6L V6 engine. With the Impala now retired from new-vehicle production after 2020, the Premier endures in the used market as the benchmark for what Chevrolet aimed to offer in a flagship full-size sedan.
Which is better, LT or LTZ Impala?
The main difference is that the LTZ trim is a more luxurious, feature-rich version of the LT trim. Key LTZ upgrades typically include premium features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and advanced safety technology, while the LT is a mid-level trim with more standard features than the base model.
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between the 2014 Chevrolet Impala LT and LTZ trims: 55sThe Road TripYouTube · May 6, 2013
| Feature | LT (Luxury Touring) | LTZ (Luxury Touring Z) |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Mid-level trim, offering a balance of features and value | Higher-end, premium trim with enhanced luxury and technology |
| Seating | Often cloth, or a mix of cloth and leatherette | Typically standard leather, with heated front seats and power adjustments for both front seats |
| Exterior | Standard features, often with body-color door handles | Upgraded features like chrome door handles, larger or unique-finish wheels, and chrome exterior mirror caps |
| Technology | Features like a larger color display (8-inch on some models), dual-zone climate control, and leather-wrapped steering wheel | Includes enhanced features like an upgraded infotainment system, premium audio, ambient cabin lighting, keyless access with push-button start, and remote start |
| Safety | Standard safety features | Often includes a package of advanced safety features as standard, such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning |
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Which Chevy Impala is top of the line?
Chevy Impala Trims
- Impala LS. The base LS trim offers a great balance of features and affordability.
- Impala LT. The LT trim adds more comfort and convenience features to enhance your driving experience.
- Impala Premier. The Premier trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering a luxurious and well-equipped driving experience.
What's the most expensive Impala?
With only 57 units built, the Z11 is among the rarest Impalas out there. And it's also the most expensive, as examples in Excellent condition command prices over $350,000. "Old Reliable" is the record holder at $525,000.
Which Impala is better, LS or LT?
The main differences are that the Impala LS is the base model and is more affordable, while the LT is the mid-level trim that offers more features like dual-zone climate control, remote start, and optional packages for added luxury and safety. The LT typically adds more comfort, convenience, and optional upgrades not available on the LS.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2017 Impala: 1mGold PonyYouTube · Sep 10, 2016
| Feature | LS (Base Model) | LT (Mid-Level) |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Entry-level and most affordable | Mid-level trim with more features |
| Engine | Standard 2.5L 4-cylinder | Standard 2.5L 4-cylinder (3.6L V6 optional) |
| Climate Control | Standard air conditioning | Standard dual-zone automatic climate control |
| Convenience | Keyless entry with push-button start, 8-way power driver seat | Adds remote start and an upgraded infotainment system |
| Exterior | Projector-beam halogen headlamps, 18-inch steel wheels with covers | Heated exterior mirrors with turn signals and ground lighting |
| Upgrades | Essential features and connectivity | Access to optional packages with leather seats, advanced safety features, premium audio, and more |
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