The Internet is abuzz with April Fool's announcements from the world's automakers, ranging from a Volvo totally encompassed by external airbags to a Subaru BRZ convertible with AWD and a turbo-diesel engine.
It's no joke, however, that production of Chevrolet’s 2014 Impala flagship sedan began at GM's Oshawa Assembly complex on April 1. It is built on the complex's flexible manufacturing line along with the Chevrolet Camaro, Buick Regal and Cadillac XTS.
The 2014 Impala will also be manufactured at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant, but production won't begin there in May.
GM has high hopes for the new Impala, aiming to move it up-market from its current rental-car image. To that end it will continue building the past-generation model in Oshawa for fleet-only sales.
Bringing it into line with its major competitors, the 2014 Impala offers such features as adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind zone alert and ten standard airbags.
In addition, Chevrolet’s latest MyLink audio/infotainment system debuts in the 2014 Impala, featuring a customizable eight-inch colour display screen and natural voice recognition – a first for the brand.
Three engine choices are offered: a 3.6-litre V-6, a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder and a 2.4-litre four with eAssist technology. All engines feature direct injection and are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2014 Impala will begin appearing in Canadian dealer showrooms later this month, with a starting price of $28,445.