2012 Chevrolet Impala: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Chevrolet Impala is a new 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic in every retail trim. This is a meaningful late-cycle update rather than a full redesign.
About the 2012 Chevrolet Impala
9th generation (2006-2013), late-cycle update year before the all-new 2014 redesign.
Chevrolet positioned the Impala as a roomy, straightforward full-size sedan for drivers who wanted strong V6 power, a large trunk, easy controls, and traditional sedan comfort. The 2012 update leaned into that formula with more power and better highway efficiency, while the model still stood out more for space, familiarity, and simple everyday usability than for a modern interior or sporty handling.
The 2012 Impala is a roomy full-size sedan offered in practical LS, better-equipped LT, and comfort-focused LTZ forms. LS has Bluetooth and a power driver seat, LT adds conveniences such as remote start and a fold-flat rear seat, and LTZ brings heated leather seats and Bose audio.
What changed, by category
2012 Chevrolet Impala specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 302 hp | 302 hp |
| Torque | 252 lb-ft | 252 lb-ft | 252 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 18.6 cu-ft | 18.6 cu-ft | 18.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.6 in | 37.6 in | 37.6 in |
| Seats | 6 | 6 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest difference between the 2012 and 2011 Chevrolet Impala?
The biggest difference is the 2012 Impala's 300-hp 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic. Every retail trim gets this stronger, more modern powertrain in place of the engines and four-speed automatic used for 2011.
Was the 2012 Chevrolet Impala fully redesigned?
No, the 2012 Impala was not fully redesigned. It received a late-cycle powertrain and styling update, while its basic body and cabin layout carried over.
What engine and transmission are in the 2012 Chevrolet Impala?
Every retail 2012 Impala has a 300-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission. The updated combination is rated at an EPA-estimated 30 mpg on the highway.
How do the 2012 Chevrolet Impala LS, LT, and LTZ trims differ?
The LS covers the basics with Bluetooth and a power driver seat, while the LT adds remote start, dual-zone climate control, and a fold-flat rear seat. The LTZ is the comfort-focused version with heated leather front seats, Bose audio, heated mirrors, and foglamps.
Is Bluetooth standard on the 2012 Chevrolet Impala LS?
Yes, Bluetooth is standard on the 2012 Impala LS. It became standard for 2012 along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and audio controls.