The Impala sedan is reborn for '06, with dramatic new sheetmetal giving the four-door a more international appearance. The basic formula continues, though improvements can be seen throughout, from major components to details. The interior is equally redone, with a cleaner, more modern arrangement. Like the updated Monte Carlo, the Impala offers dual-zone climate control, remote-start with climate presets, steering wheel cruise controls, heated power seats, Generation 6 OnStar system, and an uplevel MP3/CD-radio configured for XM Satellite Radio. Significant structure fortifications and suspension tuning promise a more refined, more controlled ride, balanced by an improved steering system. In total, three suspension packages are available (FE1, FE2, and FE3), with 16- and 17-inch wheels available. The most exciting feature set is undeniably the powertrains, with the base 3.5-liter V-6 engine producing 210-hp. Next step is a 3.9-liter/240-horsepower V-6. And the enticing top offering is a 5.3-liter OHV V-8 fitted with GM's fuel-saving Displacement on Demand technology, allowing 303 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque to be available with V-6-grade mileage.
