2018 Chevrolet Impala Premier: A Detailed Look

When considering a mid-size sedan that balances comfort, technology, and a touch of premium feel, the 2018 Chevrolet Impala Premier often rises to the top of the conversation. This model year represented a continuation of the Impala's reputation for offering a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a suite of modern features, making it a compelling choice for families and professionals alike. Our analysis of the 2018 Impala Premier reveals a vehicle that, while perhaps not the sportiest in its class, delivers a refined driving experience and excellent value.

Key Features of the 2018 Impala Premier

The Premier trim for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala is the pinnacle of the lineup, designed to offer the most comprehensive and luxurious experience. It builds upon the LT trim with enhanced features and styling cues that set it apart.

Exterior Enhancements

Visually, the 2018 Impala Premier distinguishes itself with premium exterior touches. These often include unique wheel designs, chrome accents, and body-colored door handles, all contributing to a more sophisticated and upscale appearance. The car's distinctive silhouette, with its flowing lines and aggressive front grille, remained a strong selling point. — Thanksgiving Halftime Show: History & Performers

Interior Comfort and Luxury

Inside, the Premier trim truly shines. Standard features typically include leather-appointed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering wheel. The cabin is known for its quietness, thanks to Chevrolet's attention to acoustic insulation, creating a serene environment for both driver and passengers. Ample legroom and headroom in both rows ensure comfort on long journeys.

Advanced Technology and Infotainment

Chevrolet equipped the 2018 Impala Premier with its intuitive MyLink infotainment system. This typically includes a large touchscreen display (often 8 inches), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and integrated navigation. A Bose premium audio system was also a common feature, delivering superior sound quality for all occupants.

Performance and Powertrain Options

The 2018 Chevrolet Impala Premier offered a choice of two capable engines, each providing a different balance of power and efficiency.

Standard Engine: 2.5L Four-Cylinder

For the 2018 model year, the base engine for the Premier trim was a 2.5-liter Ecotec four-cylinder. This engine was tuned to deliver a respectable output, typically around 197 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, focusing on fuel efficiency for everyday driving.

Optional Engine: 3.6L V6

For those seeking more robust performance, an optional 3.6-liter V6 engine was available. This powerhouse typically produced around 305 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, offering significantly quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving dynamic. This V6 was also mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive power delivery.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Chevrolet prioritized safety in the 2018 Impala Premier, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems. This dedication to safety earned the Impala strong ratings from safety organizations.

Standard Safety Equipment

Key standard safety features included a robust airbag system, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. The vehicle's structure was engineered to absorb and redirect impact energy, providing a strong protective cage for occupants.

Available Driver Assistance Technologies

In addition to standard safety equipment, the 2018 Impala Premier offered several advanced driver-assistance systems. These often included features like forward collision alert, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. These technologies work together to help prevent accidents and enhance driver awareness.

Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality

Chevrolet's engineering focus for the Impala has always been on delivering a comfortable and composed ride, and the 2018 Premier model is no exception. The suspension system is tuned to smooth out road imperfections, making it an excellent choice for long commutes and road trips.

Suspension and Handling

The MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are designed to provide a stable and comfortable ride. While not designed for aggressive cornering, the handling is predictable and secure, especially with the V6 engine providing more confident acceleration out of turns. — San Antonio To Miami Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)

As mentioned earlier, the 2018 Impala Premier excels in NVH reduction. The cabin remains remarkably quiet, even at highway speeds. This is achieved through the use of sound-deadening materials, triple-sealed doors, and aerodynamic design, all contributing to a more premium and relaxing driving experience.

Comparing the 2018 Impala Premier to Competitors

In the competitive mid-size sedan segment, the 2018 Chevrolet Impala Premier stood out for its unique blend of style, comfort, and value. While rivals like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord offered strong reliability and fuel efficiency, the Impala often provided a more spacious interior and a more upscale feel, particularly in the Premier trim.

Strengths Compared to Rivals

• Interior Space: The Impala consistently offered more passenger space, especially in the rear seats, than many of its competitors.
• Ride Comfort: Its suspension tuning prioritized a smooth, quiet ride, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
• Premium Touches: The Premier trim provided near-luxury amenities and a refined cabin atmosphere at a more accessible price point.

Potential Drawbacks

• Fuel Economy: The standard 2.5L engine was adequate, but its fuel economy figures were generally not as competitive as some rivals. The V6 offered performance but further impacted MPG.
• Driving Engagement: For buyers seeking a more dynamic or sporty driving experience, other sedans in the segment might offer a more engaging feel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What engine comes standard on the 2018 Impala Premier?

The standard engine for the 2018 Chevrolet Impala Premier was a 2.5-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine, producing approximately 197 horsepower.

Is the 2018 Impala Premier a good family car?

Yes, the 2018 Impala Premier is an excellent family car. It offers a spacious interior with ample room for five adults, a large trunk for cargo, and a comfortable ride that passengers will appreciate on long trips. Its advanced safety features also provide peace of mind.

What are the main differences between the LT and Premier trims of the 2018 Impala?

The Premier trim is the highest trim level and includes all the features of the LT trim, plus additional luxury and convenience items. These typically include standard leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a Bose premium audio system, and unique exterior styling elements like larger wheels and chrome accents.

Does the 2018 Impala Premier have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, the 2018 Impala Premier came standard with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, which included a large touchscreen and support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What is the fuel economy of the 2018 Impala Premier?

Fuel economy varied depending on the engine. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine typically achieved an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The optional 3.6L V6 engine achieved an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

What safety features are available on the 2018 Impala Premier?

Available safety features included forward collision alert, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera, and a comprehensive suite of airbags and electronic stability systems.

Conclusion

The 2018 Chevrolet Impala Premier represents a compelling option for buyers seeking a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped mid-size sedan. Its luxurious interior, quiet ride, and advanced technology features, particularly when equipped with the V6 engine, make it a strong contender. While it may not offer the sharpest handling, its focus on refinement and value makes it a solid choice for daily commuting and family travel. If you're in the market for a used sedan that offers a premium experience without the premium price tag, the 2018 Impala Premier is certainly worth considering. — BCBS Oregon: Find Provider Phone Number & Contact Info