Chevrolet Resurrects Impala And Revises Large Suvs

Fri., Feb. 11, 2000

The big news at Chevrolet this year includes the resurrection of the Impala nameplate, an all-new Monte Carlo, sub-stantially revised Tahoe and Suburban SUVs and an updated Cavalier.

Okay, sure, it’s a front-driver - and isn’t everything these days? - but that’s no reason to turn your nose up at the new Impala. It’s a reasonably priced ($19-22,000) “ultra” midsize model designed to compete against Taurus, Accord and Camry. It boasts plenty of power from a 180-hp 3.4-liter V-6 and if that’s not enough, there’s an optional 200-hp 3.8-liter six.

Exterior styling is meant to evoke the classic Impalas, and does, particularly in the rear, where round taillamps recall the glory days.

The spacious interior is comfortable and modern and a terrific stereo should please the most discriminating passenger. Standard equipment on both base and LS models includes air conditioning with dual front controls, rear defogger, rear-seat headrests, power windows, mirrors and door locks and a Radio Data System (RDS radio displays station information) stereo. The remote keyless entry fobs can be programmed to preset the interior preferences for two drivers.

The new Monte is based on the same platform and runs the same power trains but, of course, is offered only in a coupe body style. Designed to conform to NASCAR specs, the new Monte Carlo is a fullsize, front-wheel drive coupe with more than a few styling cues borrowed from the classic Monte of the late-‘70s. Here are the vertical taillights, long hood (the original Monte boasted the longest hood in Chevrolet history) and short decklid. Check out the eyebrow over the front wheel wells - a Monte cue if there ever was one - the resurrected “knight’s crest” emblem and Monte Carlo script lettering.

Standard equipment on both base and SS models include air conditioning (the SS gets dual-zone controls), AM/FM/cassette, 16-inch wheels, power windows, rear defroster, tilt steering wheel, split-folding rear seatbacks and a tire-inflation monitor.

Cavalier’s new sheet metal is highlighted by strong character lines, wrap-around headlamps and a squared-off rear end. Engine choices include a 115-hp 2.2-liter four and a 150-hp 2.4-liter four.

For a low price of entry of around $13,000, standard features include dual airbags, air conditioning and ABS. Cavalier is available in a full range of body styles - sedan, coupe and convertible.

Both the full-size Tahoe and jumbo Suburban are significantly upgraded this year. Based on Chevy’s full-size truck platform, both big rigs get significantly restyled sheet metal, much-improved ride and handling and roomier interiors. Step-in heights are lower and door openings are wider for ease of entry. There’s greater legroom for all occupants and seating options include folding and removable rear seats.

Tahoe and Suburban ride on fully boxed frames that make possible a more rigid body structure, improving ride and handling and eliminating squeaks and rattles. Optional suspension systems feature self-leveling rear shocks that adjust and maintain level vehicle trim and a real-time damping function that continuously varies shock damping for a smoother, more stable ride.

Pre-wired trailer connections make towing a true “plug-and-play” situation and Chevrolet’s new dual-mode automatic transmissions offer a tow/haul setting that helps eliminate shift hunt on hilly terrain. Dynamic proportioning helps maximize rear brakes while trailering.

The full-size Silverado pickup gets a driver-side half-door as an option on extended-cab models and the Blazer, S-10 pickup and rear-drive Astro van get power train refinements.

Three-door Venture minivans disappear this year, adding a fourth door as standard gear.

Camaro, Corvette, Metro, full-size Express van and compact Tracker SUV continue essentially unchanged.

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