2014 Chevrolet Impala Configurations: Trims, Specs, and Engine Options Guide

The 2014 Chevrolet Impala configurations span three main trim levels—LS, LT, and LTZ—and three powertrain options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6, and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with eAssist mild-hybrid technology. Front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission come standard across all configurations, offering distinct combinations of efficiency, performance, and luxury features.

Overview of the 2014 Redesign and Platform Architecture

The 2014 model year marked a pivotal turning point for the Chevrolet Impala. General Motors retired the aging ninth-generation W-body platform and introduced a completely re-engineered tenth-generation Impala built on the Super Epsilon II platform (Epsilon II LWB). This structural shift dramatically changed the vehicle’s dynamic capabilities, cabin acoustics, structural rigidity, and interior volume.

When researching 2014 Chevrolet Impala configurations, buyers must distinguish between two distinct models produced during that calendar year:

• Tenth-Generation Impala (All-New Retail Model): Built on the Epsilon II architecture, featuring sculpted exterior styling, modern interior electronics, advanced safety options, and a choice of three powertrains.
• Impala Limited (Legacy Fleet Model): A continuation of the ninth-generation W-body platform sold strictly to fleet, rental, and commercial customers for 2014. It retained older styling, interior controls, and a carryover 3.6-liter V6 powertrain.

The tenth-generation retail Impala gained significant dimensions over its predecessor, featuring a 111.7-inch wheelbase, an overall length of 201.3 inches, and a total trunk capacity of 18.8 cubic feet. The chassis upgraded to an independent MacPherson strut front suspension with gas-pressurized struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Electric variable-assist power steering replaced the hydraulic system on four-cylinder and V6 retail models, improving efficiency and steering precision.

Trim Level Breakdown: Features, Equipment, and Differences

Chevrolet structured the tenth-generation 2014 Impala into three primary trim tiers: LS, LT, and LTZ. Internal ordering codes further broken these down into numerical designations based on engine selection (e.g., 1LS vs. 2LS, 1LT vs. 2LT vs. 3LT, and 1LTZ vs. 2LTZ).

• 2014 Chevrolet Impala Trim Hierarchy
  • LS (1LS / 2LS) - Base Utility & Fleet Convenience
  • LT (1LT / 2LT / 3LT) - Balanced Tech, Comfort & Engine Choices
  • LTZ (1LTZ / 2LTZ) - Full Luxury, Leather & Advanced Driver Assist

Chevrolet Impala LS (Base Configuration)

The LS serves as the entry point for the 2014 Impala line. Designed for budget-conscious buyers and fleet operators seeking modern full-size sedan dimensions, the LS establishes a high baseline for interior space and safety without extra luxury appointments.

Standard LS Features:

• Powertrain: 2.5-liter Ecotec direct-injected 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (1LS configuration).
• Wheels & Exterior: 18-inch steel wheels with full bolt-on plastic wheel covers, automatic halogen projector-beam headlights, power-adjustable body-color side mirrors, and integrated blind-spot mirrors.
• Interior & Comfort: Premium cloth seating surfaces, 8-way power-adjustable driver seat with power lumbar control, 4-way manual front passenger seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and manual single-zone air conditioning.
• Technology & Infotainment: 4.2-inch color display screen, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio capability, auxiliary input jack, single USB port, and OnStar telematics integration.
• Safety Equipment: 10 standard airbags (including driver and front passenger knee airbags and side-curtain airbags), StabiliTrak electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Chevrolet Impala LT (Mid-Tier Configuration)

The LT trim is the volume seller of the 2014 Impala lineup. It expands equipment options, introduces upgraded infotainment features, and opens availability to the 3.6-liter V6 engine alongside option packages that mirror top-tier luxury trims.

The LT trim split into three internal sub-configurations depending on the powertrain selected:

• 1LT: Standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine.
• 2LT: 3.6-liter Direct-Injected V6 engine.
• 3LT: 2.4-liter eAssist Mild Hybrid powertrain (limited availability).

Key Upgrades Over LS Trim:

• Wheels & Exterior: 18-inch painted aluminum wheels, heated body-color side mirrors with integrated turn-signal indicators, and chrome window trim accents.
• Interior & Convenience: Dual-zone automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, upgraded cloth seats with leatherette bolsters, and passenger power lumbar support.
• Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment: 8-inch high-resolution color touchscreen interface. The physical display screen motorizes upward at the press of a button, revealing a hidden, illuminated storage compartment behind the screen containing a USB port.
• Connectivity: SD card slot, three total USB ports, Bluetooth audio streaming, and voice recognition capabilities.

Chevrolet Impala LTZ (Top-Tier Configuration)

The LTZ sits at the top of the 2014 Impala range. It combines premium materials, distinctive exterior styling cues, and standard advanced safety technologies that were optional on mid-tier models.

The LTZ trim was split primarily into two powertrain designations:

• 1LTZ: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (produced in lower quantities).
• 2LTZ: 3.6-liter High Output V6 engine (the dominant LTZ configuration).

Key Upgrades Over LT Trim:

• Exterior Styling: 19-inch machined alloy wheels (optional 20-inch alloy wheels available on 2LTZ), high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, integrated LED daytime running lights (DRLs), dual exposed stainless-steel exhaust tips with bright chrome surrounds (V6 models), and chrome exterior door handles with body-color striping.
• Interior Luxury: Full perforated leather seating surfaces, 8-way power front passenger seat, heated front seats, keyless passive entry with push-button start, ambient LED interior floorboard and door trim lighting, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and integrated remote start.
• Standard Advanced Safety Suite: Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Engine Configurations and Performance Specifications

Chevrolet offered three distinct engine configurations for the retail 2014 Impala. Each engine mated to a hydramatic 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission tuned specifically to that engine's power curve.

• 2014 Powertrain Lineup
  • 2.5L Ecotec I4 (LCV) - 196 hp / 186 lb-ft - Daily Commuting / Fleet
  • 3.6L High-Output V6 (LFX) - 305 hp / 264 lb-ft - High Performance / Highway
  • 2.4L Ecotec eAssist (LUK) - 182 hp / 172 lb-ft - Max Fuel Economy (Mild)

1. 2.5L Ecotec Inline 4-Cylinder (Engine Code: LCV)

The standard engine across LS and 1LT/1LTZ trims was the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder with Direct Injection (DI) and Variable Valve Timing (VVT). It incorporated iVVT (intake Variable Valve Lift) to balance fuel economy and low-end torque.

Four-cylinder Impala models featured Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) standard. ANC uses interior roof microphones to monitor low-frequency drivetrain drones, emitting counter-phase sound waves through the vehicle speakers to maintain low cabin noise levels.

• Horsepower: 196 hp @ 6,300 RPM
• Torque: 186 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic (GM 6T40 / 6T45 series)
• Fuel Delivery: Direct Injection
• Fuel Requirement: Regular unleaded (87 Octane)
• EPA Fuel Economy Rating: 21 MPG City / 31 MPG Highway / 25 MPG Combined

2. 3.6L High-Output V6 (Engine Code: LFX)

The 3.6-liter naturally aspirated DOHC V6 was standard on 2LT and 2LTZ trims and optional on 1LT models. Featuring an aluminum cylinder block and integrated exhaust manifolds, the LFX engine delivered significant performance enhancements suitable for high-speed highway driving and heavier passenger loads.

• Horsepower: 305 hp @ 6,800 RPM
• Torque: 264 lb-ft @ 5,300 RPM
• Transmission: Heavy-Duty 6-speed automatic (GM 6T70 series)
• Fuel Delivery: Direct Injection
• Fuel Requirement: Regular unleaded (87 Octane)
• EPA Fuel Economy Rating: 19 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway / 22 MPG Combined
• 0–60 MPH Performance: Approximately 6.0 to 6.3 seconds

3. 2.4L Ecotec 4-Cylinder with eAssist Mild Hybrid (Engine Code: LUK)

Offered early in the 2014 model year in limited quantities, the eAssist powertrain used a 2.4-liter direct-injected four-cylinder mated to an electric motor-generator unit and a 0.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack stored in the trunk.

The eAssist system provided electric power assistance during acceleration, regenerative braking during coasting, and smooth start-stop capability when stopped. The trunk-mounted battery pack reduced total trunk cargo capacity from 18.8 cubic feet down to 10.0 cubic feet, and reduced fuel tank capacity from 18.5 gallons down to 15.8 gallons.

• Engine Horsepower: 182 hp @ 6,200 RPM
• Electric Assist Power: 15 hp boost from electric motor
• Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4,900 RPM
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic (GM 6T40 modified for eAssist)
• EPA Fuel Economy Rating: 25 MPG City / 35 MPG Highway / 28 MPG Combined

Comprehensive Configuration Matrix

The table below breaks down technical dimensions, engine specifications, standard features, and structural differences across all official 2014 Chevrolet Impala retail configurations.

Optional Equipment Packages and Standalone Options

Chevrolet allowed buyers to customize mid-level and top-level configurations with several factory-installed options packages. Understanding these option packages helps used vehicle buyers identify key options added to LT and LTZ trims.

1. Options Packages for LT Trim

• Convenience Package: Adds rear park assist, rear-vision camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote vehicle starter system, and universal home remote garage door opener.
• Advanced Safety Package: Adds Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. (Requires Convenience Package).
• Premium Seating Package: Adds synthetic leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and an 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat.
• Premium Audio & Navigation Package: Adds a 11-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound audio system, 120-volt household-style power outlet, ambient lighting, and GM factory turn-by-turn navigation integrated into the MyLink screen.
• Wheel Options: 19-inch multi-spoke aluminum wheels (available on 2LT V6 models).

2. Options Packages for LTZ Trim

• Advanced Technology Package: Adds dynamic adaptive cruise control (full-speed range braking), collision mitigation braking system, 11-speaker Bose Surround Sound audio system, and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

• Comfort & Convenience Package: Adds memory settings for driver seat/mirrors/steering wheel position, power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, ventilated (cooled) front seats, heated steering wheel, auto-dimming driver exterior side mirror, and power rear window sunshade.

• Dual-Panel Sunroof: Adds a power-tilt/sliding front glass panel paired with a fixed rear glass skylight panel with power shade.

• 20-Inch Alloy Wheels: Available exclusively on 2LTZ configurations paired with low-profile performance tires.

• Key Factory Option Packages Overview

  • LT Trim Packages
    • Convenience Package (Camera, Parking Sensors, Remote Start)
    • Advanced Safety Package (Blind Zone, Collision Alert, Lane Departure)
    • Premium Seating Package (Heated Seats, 8-way Passenger Power)
    • Premium Audio & Navigation (Bose 11-Speaker, Embedded Navigation)
  • LTZ Trim Packages
    • Advanced Technology Package (Adaptive Cruise, Automatic Braking)
    • Comfort & Convenience Package (Ventilated Seats, Memory, Power Wheel)
    • Standalone Options (20-inch Wheels, Dual-Panel Sunroof)

Used Market Buyer Guidance and Reliability Insights

As 12-year-old vehicles on the used car market, 2014 Chevrolet Impalas require clear evaluation across powertrains, structural wear points, and component histories.

Detailed component service history and documentation can be checked using official resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls Portal.

Engine Choice Recommendation: 3.6L V6 vs. 2.5L I4

1. 3.6L LFX V6 (Best Overall Choice): The 305-horsepower V6 is widely regarded by mechanics as the best matching engine for the 2014 Impala’s 3,800-pound curb weight. It delivers strong acceleration with minimal difference in real-world fuel economy compared to the base four-cylinder.
   • Watch Areas: High-mileage LFX engines can experience carbon build-up on intake valves due to direct injection design. Regular oil changes with Dexos-certified synthetic oil are necessary to prevent timing chain stretch and variable valve timing solenoid failure.
2. 2.5L LCV 4-Cylinder (Acceptable Budget Choice): The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and flat highway cruising.
   • Watch Areas: Check the operation of the Active Noise Cancellation system. If an aftermarket audio head unit was installed, the ANC system may output loud lower-frequency hums through the door speakers.
3. 2.4L eAssist Hybrid (Avoid on Used Market): The rare eAssist variant contains complex early-generation mild-hybrid components, high-voltage battery degradation risks, replacement battery costs, and a loss of 40% of trunk utility.

Mechanical Areas to Inspect:

• 6-Speed Automatic Transmissions (6T40 vs. 6T70): Check transmission fluid color and shift smoothness between 2nd and 3rd gear. The heavy-duty 6T70 paired with the V6 engine generally exhibits higher durability under heavy load than the lighter-duty 6T40 paired with 4-cylinder models.
• Electronic MyLink Touchscreen: Check the motorized mechanism of the 8-inch MyLink display screen. Ensure the screen smoothly rises and lowers via the dash button and that the touch interface responds evenly across all zones.
• Suspension Bushings and Struts: Lower control arm bushings and front strut mount plates are common wear items on tenth-generation Impalas exceeding 100,000 miles, manifesting as front-end clunks over low-speed bumps.
• Dual-Panel Sunroof Operation: Verify smooth operation of both the power shade and glass panel on LTZ trim models equipped with the dual-panel sunroof; binding motor cables or clogged rain drain tubes are documented maintenance items.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2014 Chevrolet Impala have All-Wheel Drive (AWD)?

No. All configurations of the retail 2014 Chevrolet Impala (LS, LT, and LTZ) were manufactured exclusively with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD). All-wheel drive was not offered on this platform generation.

What is the difference between a 2014 Impala and a 2014 Impala Limited?

The 2014 Impala is the redesigned, tenth-generation full-size sedan featuring new exterior styling, upgraded technology, and an updated chassis. The 2014 Impala Limited is the older, ninth-generation body style continued exclusively for fleet and rental sales. Parts and body panels are not interchangeable between the two models.

Which 2014 Chevrolet Impala trim comes standard with leather seats?

The top-tier LTZ trim comes standard with perforated leather seating surfaces. The mid-tier LT trim came standard with cloth/leatherette seats, though full leather seats were available as part of the optional Premium Seating Package.

Can you tow with a 2014 Chevrolet Impala?

When properly equipped, the 2014 Chevrolet Impala with the 3.6-liter V6 engine has a maximum manufacturer-rated towing capacity of up to 1,000 pounds. Towing is not recommended for 2.5-liter or eAssist configurations.

What size wheels come on the 2014 Impala configurations?

The LS trim features 18-inch steel wheels with full plastic covers. The LT trim features 18-inch painted alloy wheels (with optional 19-inch alloys on 2LT models). The LTZ trim comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, with 20-inch aluminum wheels offered as an optional upgrade on 2LTZ models.

Does the 2014 Impala support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

No. Factory smartphone mirroring like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was not introduced to the Chevrolet Impala until the 2016 model year. The 2014 model’s 8-inch MyLink screen supports Bluetooth audio streaming, USB audio inputs, and voice control, but does not natively run phone projection software.

Final Recommendation: Which 2014 Impala Configuration Should You Buy?

For optimal longevity, performance, and feature content on the secondary market, the best overall configuration is the 2014 Chevrolet Impala 2LT or 2LTZ equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine.

The 305-horsepower V6 pairs naturally with the heavy-duty 6T70 transmission, providing responsive highway passing power and reliable mechanical durability. Opting for an LT trim equipped with the optional Convenience and Advanced Safety Packages delivers nearly all the technology, blind-spot monitoring, and comfort options of the top-tier LTZ, while utilizing durable 18-inch wheels that offer lower tire replacement costs and a smoother ride over poor pavement.