Video: 2014 Chevrolet Impala declares the lackluster days are over

The last two generations of Chevrolet Impala—once a classic piece of proud Detroit history—devolved into an outdated, rental fleet filler. It truly became a car that renters would wisely pass on if offered a free upgrade. Now, with the redesigned 2014 Impala, things have changed in a big way.

Sharing underpinnings with the Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac XTS, and Chevrolet Malibu, the Impala is vastly improved. But it ain't cheap.

Prices start at $26,725 and rise into luxury-car territory when dipping into the ample options list. We recently bought a Chevrolet Impala 2LZ with all the trimmings for $39,110.

Engine choices include a 3.6-liter V6, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with eAssist. All are paired with a six-speed automatic. We went with the big, 305-hp V6.

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