TORRANCE, CA — A hit among many commercial fleets, fleet managers selected the completely redesigned 2006 Chevrolet Impala as this year’s Fleet Car of the Year. The annual award, sponsored by Automotive Fleet magazine, showcased 53 domestic and import nominees for 2006 — AF’s largest-ever selection of cars. Voting was cast online via AF’s Web site, www.fleet-central.com. The 2006 Impala features a new appearance inside and out. In the rear, replacing the round double taillights and Impala logo emblazoned across the outside of the trunk are single taillights that wrap around the side of the car and Chevrolet’s signature logo. A rear spoiler is standard on the LTZ and SS models. With a distinct front-end appearance, the SS includes a dual-split grille. Inside, the Impala offers leather seating with flip-and-fold rear seats that fold flat into the floor, providing 18.6 cubic feet of cargo room. Extra storage space is available underneath the rear seat cushions. A wood-trimmed appearance comes standard in the LS, LT, and LTZ, while a metallic pattern is standard in the SS. The Impala’s CD audio system is configured for XM satellite radio and equipped with an auxiliary input jack for electronic devices, such as MP3. Built at GM’s Oshawa Car Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, the 2006 mid-size Chevrolet Impala is offered in LS, LT, LTZ, and SS models. The LS and LT are powered by a new 3.5L V-6 engine, producing 211 horsepower and 214 lb.-ft. of torque, while the LTZ is propelled by a new 220-horsepower 3.9L V-6 engine with variable intake technology. All models feature the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission for improved durability. The SS goes a step further, delivering even more power with its all-new 303-horsepower 5.3L small block V-8 engine with Displacement on Demand technology, providing up to 8% improved fuel economy by switching between four- and eight-cylinder operation. Collectively, the Impala can achieve between 18-21 city and 27-31 highway mpg. The LS and LT versions can also run on E-85. A wider track, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and traction-control in the LTZ and SS — offered as an option on LS and LT — provide a smooth ride and reliable handling in most driving situations. In addition to front dual-stage airbags, the Impala is standard-equipped with side-curtain airbags and the OnStar Gen 6 Safe and Sound package with Advanced Automatic Crash Notification. A tire-pressure-monitoring system also comes standard on models equipped with 17- and 18-inch wheels, which provide a quieter ride with improved handling. The 2006 Impala is designed with a strengthened safety cage with improved energy dissipation to absorb impact upon collision. The 2006 Chevrolet Impala is now available at reduced pricing from the 2005 model year. The LS MSRP starts at $21,990, while the SS is available at $27,790. Bobit Business Media's Associate Publisher Bob Brown (right) presents the 2006 Fleet Car of the Year Award for the new Chevrolet Impala to Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper (center) and GM Fleet and Commercial Operations Marketing Director John Gaydash Thurs., Nov. 17, 2005 at the GM Heritage Center in Sterling Heights, Mich.