For 2009, Impala's value story is bolstered by new standard safety features, including thorax side-impact airbags and safety belt pretensioners for the front-seat lap belts. Anti-lock brakes and traction control are now standard. Available is new Bluetooth phone connectivity through the OnStar system.

The standard 3.5L V-6 is EPA-rated at 29 mpg on the highway, giving it fuel economy that matches or beats many smaller cars. Both the 3.5L and 3.9L engines are available with E85 FlexFuel capability.

The Impala SS is an efficient performer, too, with a 5.3L V-8 and Active Fuel Management. It is rated at 303 horsepower. Active Fuel Management can improve fuel economy by up to 12 percent in certain driving conditions.

Changes to the 2009 Impala lineup are evolutionary and reflect streamlined packaging of popular features. They include: New-design 18-inch flangeless, polished aluminum wheel for the Impala SS; Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and traction control are now standard on all models; Common rear spoiler design for all models (SS-style); Revised rocker molding design; Dual-zone manual climate control standard; Revised cupholder design; Illuminated vanity mirrors for driver/front passenger now standard.

There are also three new exterior colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Aqua Blue Metallic and Victory Red.