"That places it not only at the top of its 'Large Sedan' category, but also among the top-rated vehicles Consumer Reports has tested. Only two vehicles have a higher test score – the [all-electric] Tesla Model S hatchback and the BMW 135i coupe," Consumer Reports said.

Consumer Reports, however, said the 2014 could not be placed in its "Recommended" category, because it was too new to have met other requirements, including doing well in government crash tests and in the company's Annual Auto Survey.

But Jack Fisher, director Consumer Reports automotive testing, said the Impala was "one more indicator of an emerging domestic renaissance," for the U.S. automobile industry.

"We've seen a number of redesigned American models -- including the Chrysler 300, Ford Escape and Fusion, and Jeep Grand Cherokee -- deliver world-class performance in our test," he said.