The Chevrolet Impala LT and LTZ models are pleasing to drive, whether equipped with the 3.5-liter or 3.9-liter V6 engines. The SS cuts a conservative but dashing figure, with its quiet badging and giant five-spoke, 18-inch wheels; but it has more power than it knows what to do with, though we did enjoy its loud, authoritative exhaust rumble). Overall, the Impalas are good cars, though they don't match the sophistication of some of the competition.

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from Dearborn, Michigan.