The Complete History of the Chevrolet Impala

America's favorite full-size sedan has been through a journey full of change.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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The Impala is not only one of Chevrolet's most historic vehicles, but one of America's, as well. For decades, it set the standard in comfort and value, and was even considered to stem the American muscle car. First debuting in the 1958 model year, the Impala began as a high-end Bel Air. It's success as a long, wide, and luxurious family sedan forced Chevy to separate it into its own model, creating what was soon to be America's best-selling full-size car. Over the years, the Impala has made many distinct styling impacts with its wild rear ends and iconic grilles. Join us as we go through every year that the Impala was produced, pointing out when and how new trends, new engines, and new looks were born. This is The Complete History of the Chevrolet Impala

1958

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1959

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1960

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1961

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1962

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1963

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1964

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1965

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1966

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1967

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1968

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1969

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1970

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1971

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1972

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1973

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1974

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1975

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1976

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1977

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1978

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1979

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1980

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1981

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1982

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1983

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1984

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1985

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1986-1993 (Discontinued)

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1994

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1995

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1996

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1997-1999 (Discontinued)

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2000

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2001

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2002

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2003

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2004

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2005

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2006

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2007

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2008

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2009

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2010

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2011

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2012

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2014

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As Chevrolet watched competing full-sized sedans vastly improving, ganging up on the Impala with cutting-edge technology and risky styling, the company realized it was time for a major change. Jumping as far away from the vehicle that had mainly become used in high-volume fleets, the 2014 model Impala takes slight cues from both the Malibu and the Camaro, making for a refreshed, more modern attractive look. The front end has a somewhat universal template from the other Chevys, almost like a clean and organized smile. The rear fender even has a slight pull from the Impalas of old, giving it the slightest bit of necessary nostalgia. On the inside, the cluster has an all-new 4.2-inch color display that supports Chevy MyLink to pair with an 8-inch screen in the center console that has bluetooth streaming, navigation, and smartphone integration. Consumers are given the option of three direct-injected engines, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with eAssist.

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