The last of the 3rd generation of Impalas was arguably the best: the 1996 Impala received improvements borrowed from a variety of Chevies, including a Z28-like instrument panel featuring race-car-reminiscent gauges.

The base engine remained a 5.7-liter V8 LT1 rated at 260 horsepower.  The low suspension of the car could make it feel even faster, as the road-hugging features made the car feel like it had lift similar to an airplane.

Of course, Chevy raised consumer hopes and expectations, then dropped them to the floor: the Impala would be discontinued - again - until 2000.