CHEVROLET Impala 1999-2005 Photos, engines & full specs

Chevrolet re-introduced the Impala nameplate in 1999 after it took it off the market in 1996 and built it on an entirely new platform.

The eighth generation of the Impala showed the most significant change in the model's history since it was no longer a rear-wheel drive vehicle, switching the car to the W Platform shared with the Monte Carlo, the Buick Regal, and the Pontiac Grand Prix. All of these were front-wheel driven, and the Impala also benefited from this change.

It came on the market to replace the Lumina lineup and sported a new design with curved lines and, somehow, a domestic appearance. Its two-headlamps design for the headlights resembled the older models built in the '60s. The broad grille sported a V-shaped slat that incorporated the bow-tie badge in the middle. Moreover, depending on the trim level, it showed a more aerodynamic package. Impala's profile revealed a cab-rearward design, enhanced by a third window behind the rear doors, like on its predecessor. Last but not least, the back showed a big red cover where the two-headlamps design resembled the front fascia.

Inside, thanks to the transverse-engine layout, the carmaker could offer more room. Even though it was in the mid-size segment vehicle, the interior room qualified it for the large-car category. There were just two trim levels, with the base version featuring cloth upholstery, while the upper trim level got leather seats.

Under the hood, Chevrolet installed a choice of two engines: a 3.4- and a 3.8-liter, both mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.