22 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling contests, but it’s a reasonable trade-off for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala 3.6L. This isn’t a car purchased for amazing efficiency; it’s a large, comfortable sedan chosen for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and strong V6 power. Impala buyers prioritize these qualities, so that 22 MPG figure becomes acceptable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Impala 3.6L break down to 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the inefficiency of stop-and-go driving, where the engine spends much time idling and accelerating. The highway number, however, demonstrates the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, aided by its six-speed automatic transmission. Long road trips are where this Impala excels, offering a comfortable and relatively economical experience for its size.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala 3.6L is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and the price of gasoline where you live. Someone who primarily drives in congested urban environments will likely see a higher annual fuel cost, while someone who primarily uses the Impala for highway commuting could see a lower one.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Some drivers report figures slightly above or below the official numbers. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Using cruise control on the highway and smooth acceleration can help you achieve closer to the EPA highway estimate, or even slightly exceed it.

How it compares

The 2016 Impala 3.6L’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of its large sedan competitors. The Toyota Avalon achieves around 24 MPG combined. That extra 2 MPG will save a considerable amount over the life of the vehicle, even though it seems like a small difference. Some might consider the smaller engine options in competitors like the Chrysler 300, which offers slightly better figures with its base engine, achieving 23 MPG. Ultimately, Impala buyers need to weigh their priorities: fuel efficiency versus the V6’s responsive performance and the specific driving characteristics they prefer. View all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site to compare mpg ratings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important to keeping your 2016 Impala operating efficiently. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, improving combustion and efficiency.

Avoid excessive idling. The 3.6L V6 consumes fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine. Modern starters are designed for frequent use, and restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for an extended period.

Use cruise control whenever possible on long highway stretches. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can significantly improve fuel economy. Just be sure to disengage cruise control in challenging weather conditions or heavy traffic.

Drive smoothly and avoid accelerating too fast. The harder you accelerate, the more fuel the engine consumes. Gradually increase your speed and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid sudden stops and starts. This driving style not only improves fuel economy but also reduces wear and tear on your brakes and tires.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger areas. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload, requiring it to burn more fuel to maintain the same performance. Want to compare IMPALA MPG across all years? We list all the information you need to make informed choices.