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The Chevrolet Impala | Chicago Chevrolet Dealer

The Chevrolet Impala was first unveiled in 1958 as the top trim model of the Bel Air, and was an attempt to make a higher end vehicle accessible and affordable to even the average American citizen.  Borrowing its moniker from a type of African antelope, the first Impala was visually stunning and made an immediate splash in the auto market.  It was considered one of the first pioneers of the "muscle" car trend.

The popularity of the 1958 Bel Air Impala prompted the development of the Impala's own 1959 model line, whose series included a four-door hardtop, four-door sedan,  two-door Sport Coupe and two-door convertible. The Impala's signature triple taillights and large tail fin combined with mechanical advancements like improved brakes, suspension, and handling only further solidified the vehicle's  popularity, and one year later, it was the best-selling car in America.

The Impala remained a fixture in the Chevrolet lineup over the next few decades, continually undergoing stylistic and functional changes to keep up with social and economic trends.  It reached another peak in 1977, once again reaching status of the best-selling vehicle in America and being named Motor Trend's Car of the Year. 
 
After discontinuing the 1994 model for waning sales, the Impala was resurrected again in 2000, this time upgrading to front-wheel drive with two models geared toward law enforcement.  The Impala celebrated its 50th anniversary with a limited edition 2008 model, showing its ability to stand the tests of time and adapt to changes and preferences in the automobile market.  To this day, it remains the performance car of choice for those who like big cars.