Upgrading to the 2008 Chevrolet Impala LT trim in this front-wheel-drive full-size sedan line-up gets you remote start and adds a temperature display and compass to the dash gauges. The sedan seats five in front bucket seats and a second-row bench, arranged stadium-style. A front-row bench is optional. The trunk holds 18.6 cubic feet of cargo and comes with a net. The 2008 Impala LT runs on a 211-hp, 3.5-liter, 12-valve V6 with variable valve timing. The engine qualifies as an E85 flex-fuel vehicle. It is paired with a 4-speed automatic with overdrive, and together they rate 18/29 mpg. The smooth ride comes courtesy of an independent front and rear suspension.

A long list of standard equipment keeps drivers and passengers happy. These include a 6-way power driver's seat, power windows, locks, and mirrors, remote entry, wheel-mounted cruise control, hands-free phone controls, and a CD/MP3 player with input jack and satellite radio. Intermittent wipers, a tachometer, tilt steering, a trip computer, and two front 12-volt power outlets are also standard. Faux wood trim decorates the interior. The LT offers more options, including a sunroof and garage opener. Also available are roof rails, a rear spoiler, wheel-mounted audio controls, a 6-CD changer, a split-folding rear seat, leather trim, and heated leather seats. A flip-and-fold-flat rear seat option expands cargo capacity.

The 2008 Impala LT earns five stars in frontal impact tests and four in side impact and rollover tests. 4-wheel disc brakes are standard, with the option to add 4-wheel ABS. Also part of the safety profile are dual front-side airbags with passenger deactivation, OnStar, automatic headlights, foglights, and halogen lamps. The 16-inch steel wheels with all-season tires come with a tire monitor, and larger 17-inch wheels cost extra. Traction control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are also optional.