25 MPG combined is a reasonable, if unremarkable, figure for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala 2.5L. This isn’t a hybrid or a compact car, it’s a full-size sedan offering generous interior space and a comfortable ride, qualities that often outweigh ultimate fuel efficiency for its target demographic. Buyers of the four-cylinder Impala are typically prioritizing affordability and practicality over MPG bragging rights. They need a reliable and spacious family car and are willing to accept middling fuel economy to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Impala 2.5L will achieve 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure is adequate for stop-and-go traffic, where the engine’s stop/start system (detailed later) helps to conserve fuel. The 31 MPG highway rating reflects the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds, although maintaining that figure requires mindful driving habits. With a six-speed automatic transmission, this Impala is geared to prioritize engine efficiency, which means highway MPG can suffer when encountering hilly or gusty conditions. The 2.5L engine’s performance in both environments is adequate, and it’s important to remember that the Impala is a large, comfortable sedan, not a lightweight sports car.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala 2.5L at exactly $1,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a crucial figure for budget-conscious buyers. While fluctuating fuel costs will affect the actual amount drivers spend, the $1,750 benchmark allows potential buyers to compare the Impala to other vehicles in its class and assess the long-term running costs. This figure underscores the trade-off inherent in choosing a full-size sedan versus a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized fuel economy estimates, real-world MPG often varies depending on driving style, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and neglecting routine maintenance can all negatively impact the Impala’s fuel efficiency. Buyers should anticipate that their actual fuel economy might differ slightly from the EPA figures, particularly if they frequently engage in spirited driving. However, with conservative driving habits, achieving or even slightly exceeding the EPA estimates is certainly possible. and keeping your tires properly inflated and using the recommended grade of gasoline will contribute to optimizing fuel efficiency of the 2.5L engine.

How it compares

The 2016 Toyota Avalon, another popular full-size sedan, achieves an EPA-estimated 21 MPG city and 31 MPG highway with its standard V6 engine, making its city fuel economy a little worse than the Impala’s, though the two are neck-and-neck on the highway. However, if you want to look at something in the same family, all Chevrolet fuel economy data is available for model-year comparisons. The 2016 Ford Taurus also offers a spacious interior and gets around 20 MPG city and 29 MPG highway with its standard 3.5L V6. The four-cylinder base model is slightly better in overall economy than the Impala, however. These comparisons highlight that, while the Impala’s fuel economy isn’t class-leading, it’s comparable to other full-size sedans. and the Avalon’s higher trim levels and the Taurus’ larger engine result in a higher purchase price, something the Impala buyer is trying to avoid. Across the years, IMPALA MPG across all years, its fuel efficiency has remained relatively consistent.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2016 Impala 2.5L is equipped with an automatic stop/start system, which shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at a red light) to conserve fuel. Getting accustomed to the system’s operation can noticeably improve city fuel economy. Avoid disabling it unless absolutely necessary, as doing so will negate its fuel-saving benefits. Also, if you spend a lot of time idling (warming up on cold winter mornings perhaps), know that this can lower the MPGs significantly.

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, including the Impala. Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, as they consume considerably more fuel. Maintain a steady speed on the highway, and anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking. The six-speed automatic transmission is programmed to upshift quickly to save fuel, so let it do its job and don’t fight it with heavy throttle inputs.

Proper tire inflation is often overlooked, but it plays a significant role in fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, and ensure that it matches the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. It’s also true that worn tires can affect efficiency. Using tires optimized for low rolling resistance is another strategy.

Regular vehicle maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, is essential for optimal fuel economy. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, leading to improved MPG. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to ensure that your Impala operates at peak performance. A clogged air filter restricts airflow and reduces engine efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk adds weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items to minimize the vehicle’s overall weight. The less weight the engine has to motivate, the better the MPG figures will be.