General Motors' Chevrolet division introduced the Impala in 1958. The Chevy Impala, would go on to become the most expensive of the division's passenger models and the highest selling car in the United States by 1965.

The early Impala's distinctive feature is its symmetrical triple taillights, but its appearance differed significantly from other Chevrolet models at the time. The hardtops had a shorter greenhouse and an elongated rear deck, giving the car body an extended appearance.

Chevrolet abandoned the usual perimeter frame and used a unit with rails positioned in a stretched "X" shape for the Impala's chassis. The design did improve the firewall and rocker panels, but was not as protective during a side impact from an accident as the perimeter frame.

The Chevrolet Impala was originally part of the Bel-Air line. Models with the V6 engine started at $2,586, while V8 models were priced at $2,693. Interior features included a two-spoke steering wheel and colour-key panels for the door.

In 1959, the Impala was redesigned and made its own series, now sharing a bodyshell with Oldsmobile and Buick models. Instead of the triple taillights, the 1959 and 1960 models had tear-drop shaped taillights on each side.

The next generation of Impalas cars, made from 1960 to 1964, featured a boxier and trimmer design than the previous models. A unique order-only version made during this period, the 1961 two-door pillared sedan, is a very different to find model of the Chevrolet Impala.

Chevrolet redesigned the Impala for its fourth generation, from 1965 to 1970. These models had a perimeter frame instead of the "X" frame, a sharper, more angled windshield and full-coil suspension. A four-door model, the Chevrolet Impala Caprice, was also introduced.

Various versions of the Impala were introduced by Chevrolet from 1961 forward. The cars carrying the Impala name included the Super Sport, also known as the Impala SS, the Custom Coupe and limited edition versions. The 1974 Spirit of America package, for example, give buyers red, white and blue interior and exterior colour schemes.

The Chevrolet Impala is currently still in production, with an updated model expected for the 2014 model year. These models are expected to be more upscale than the models of recent years.