The 2020 Chevrolet Impala with the 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission gets 22 MPG combined. This isn’t going to win any efficiency awards, but it’s understandable given the car’s mission. The Impala isn’t chasing Prius buyers. It’s designed for those who still appreciate a large, comfortable sedan with ample power and a smooth ride. Impala buyers prioritize interior space, trunk volume, and highway cruising ability over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of fuel. They accept decent, if not spectacular, fuel economy as part of the package.

City and highway performance

Official EPA estimates are 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Impala’s weight and engine size take a toll. The highway number is more respectable, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission plays an important role here, keeping the engine in its optimal range for fuel conservation during long highway stretches. The Impala shines on road trips, where its comfortable seats, quiet cabin, and relatively good highway mileage combine to provide a relaxed experience.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Impala 3.6L to be $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes the national average fuel price. This is only an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (the Impala is designed to run on regular unleaded), and local fuel prices. If you primarily drive in the city or have a heavy foot, expect to spend more. If you do mostly highway driving and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques, you may be able to beat that $2,000 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. Impala drivers report varying figures depending on their typical driving conditions. Drivers who spend most of their time in congested urban areas generally see numbers closer to the 19 MPG city rating, while those with longer commutes and more highway miles frequently report exceeding the 28 MPG highway estimate. Consistent use of cruise control on the highway and avoiding aggressive acceleration can significantly improve fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2020 Impala’s fuel economy is competitive compared to other large sedans of its era. The 2020 Toyota Avalon with its 3.5L V6 achieves a slightly better 22 MPG city / 32 MPG highway, but the Avalon carries a higher price tag. The Chrysler 300 with its base 3.6L V6 mirrors the Impala at 19 MPG city / 30 MPG highway. Buyers considering the Impala likely have other large sedans on their shopping list. Understanding even slight fuel economy differences can help them weigh the costs relative to factors like price, features, and styling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Impala’s 3.6L V6 offers plenty of power when needed, but stomping on the accelerator frequently will dramatically decrease fuel economy. A smooth and gradual acceleration helps keep the engine operating efficiently.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it. This is especially true in urban environments. Most Impala owners don’t live in a climate where pre-warming the engine is crucial to cold-weather drivability.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a constant speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to better fuel economy. The Impala’s cruise control system is easy to use, making it a convenient tool for saving fuel on long trips. It also contributes to a more relaxed driving experience.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure that the engine is running optimally. A poorly maintained engine will be less efficient and consume more fuel. Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule, and consider having your trusted mechanic check all Chevrolet fuel economy data regularly for optimal efficiency.