New Car Review of the 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Mid-Size Coupe and Impala Sedan

Base MSRP Range: $20,330 - $26,330

Base Invoice Range: $19,212 - $24,882

MSRP As Tested: Not Available

Versions: LS, LT, LTZ, SS

Vehicle Category: Mid-Size Coupe and Sedan

Engine Location: Front Engine

Drive Wheels: Front-Wheel Drive.

Standard Engine as Tested: 3.5-liter, Overhead Valve, V-6, 211 - horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 214 lb-ft torque at 4,000 rpm.

Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 21/31.

Optional Engine: 3.9-liter, Overhead Valve, V-6, 242 - horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 242 lb-ft torque at 4,800 rpm.

Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 19/27.

Optional Engine: 5.3-liter, Overhead Valve, V-8, 303 – horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 323 lb-ft torque at 4,400 rpm.

Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 28/18.

Transmission: Four-speed automatic.

Standard Safety Features: Dual front airbags, Curtain side airbags (Impala), ">Anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes, Daytime running lights, Emergency inside trunk release.

Competition: Chrysler 300C, Ford Five-Hundred, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry.

Monte Carlo has, for quite some time, been one of the most exotic getaways in Europe – a playground for the elite. Chevrolet's coupe by the same name isn't exactly a car the ultra-rich would clamor for, but somehow it has been firmly etched into the fabric of America's pop culture.

The 2006 Monte Carlo (two-door coupe) and Impala (four-door sedan version) have added more cargo room and better seating. Long gone is the original styling that firmly planted these cars into the classic car category. Now-a-days, there are many other options, particularly imports, that will have better options and standard equipment that what Chevy brings in its largest two cars.

But that doesn't mean both don't still go fast - the SS Monte Carlo will go from 0 to 60 in approximately 6 seconds. Even the LTs clock in at well under 8 seconds.

As with any car that's been around for decades, the Impala and Monte Carlo have had to face the challenge of keeping a tie-in with their heritage and keeping up with the rest of the pack.

For a family, the Impala can do just that; doors open wide enough for older family members to climb in with ease, and gas mileage is decent (considering the car's size) at about 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway. The cult following of the Impala is still strong among lowrider enthusiasts, who use airbags to lay the frames on the ground. Rappers like "The Game" and "Nelly" both sport older models, to which they've added 24-inch rims and/or major hydraulic bouncing systems. And few things are cooler than owning a 'donk' in Miami (a 1971-1975 Chevy Impala or Caprice with ridiculously huge rims.)

Whether you'd like to 'donk-out' a new Impala or just tote Grandma and groceries, the 2006 Impala and Monte Carlo should be considered. Choose from the base LS, the LT 3.5-liter, the LT 3.9-liter, the LTZ and the mighty SS.

Because the base LS and LT models don't come equipped with antilock brakes, we'd recommend taking a look at class competitors such as the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry, both of which also rate higher in safety tests than do the Chevrolets.

Performance

All Monte Carlos and Impala are front wheel (FWD) drive for 2006, although there have, been unconfirmed rumors of a rear wheel drive version sometime in the future. For now, however, FWD is the only option, as is a four-speed automatic transmission, for all Impalas and Monte Carlos.

The LS models put up 211 horsepower (at 5,800 RPM) and 214 ft.-lb. of torque (at 4,000 RPM) from their 3.5-liter V-6 engine. LT models, also V-6s, hop up to a 3.9 liter engine that have 242 horses (at 6,000 RPM) and 242 ft.-lb. of torque (at 4,800 RPM). The LT also comes with traction control, a valuable addition.

Anyone who knows anything about Chevy knows what that 'SS' means - lots of raw power and grit. The beast-like SS Monte Carlo and Impala won't disappoint, with 5.3-liter V-8 engines, 303 horsepower (at 5,600 RPM) and 323 ft.-lbs. of torque (at 4,400 RPM.) Because all of this means bad gas mileage (you'll get 18 MPG in the city if you're lucky,) Chevy sought a way to improve upon that. They caught on to what the Dodge Charger was doing to save fuel - shutting off four of the eight cylinders when in cruising mode -9 and Chevy added it to the SS models (dubbed Active Fuel Management).

But you won't find this in anything but the SS.

What can be found are MacPherson struts for the front suspension, with tri-link coil-over struts the rear suspension system. The SS adds hollow anti-roll bars (stronger). Hollow bars replace solid ones, 34mm front (4 mm larger than the V-6's) and 19.4mm rear (up 3.4 mm.) Tires are W-rated P235/50R18 AL3 Goodyear Eagle RS on 18x7.0-inch aluminum wheels.

Ride/Handling

Consumer Guide calls the 2006 Impala and Monte Carlo 'One to Watch,' and we'd agree. But There's a big difference between one to watch and one to buy. As mentioned above, there are rumors of some big changes being made to Chevy's best-selling car, so it would only make sense to keep an eye on the Impala and Monte Carlo. More improvements in safety and ride and handling could be part of the redesigned Impalas in the next few years.

We're hoping some of those proposed changes will include deeper seats for better thigh support, less wind noise, and making ABS standard on all models.

However, to Chevy's credit, its two largest cars are still quite responsive on the pedal, with all models having a fun, immediate response off the line. The SS, of course, is much faster and is quite lively; but obviously, the fuel economy isn't the best, and obviously, that's something to take into consideration now-a-days when gas is well over $3 per gallon.

But we cannot forget the heritage of the Impala and Monte Carlo in this country - they're some of our favorite muscle cars. And muscle cars aren't afraid to use a little gas. Go with the LS 3.5 liter if you're looking for better gas mileage and a quieter ride, but we're happy that Chevy kept the car's growl true to its history. That wind rush, however, gets irritating.

We would also suggest going for the optional 17-inch rims to create a slightly less bumpy/floaty ride. The SS's 18-inch rims and performance suspension system provide more stability, which is definitely needed with the extra power.

Overall positives include a better powertrain this year and a roomy interior in the Impala.

It just feels like the technology and styling fall short of such competitors as the Camry, and that's an image Chevy definitely needs to improve to keep up with the rest of the class.

Safety

This is another department where the Impala and Monte Carlo fall short of their class competitors. Sure, a larger car in itself will provide more protection because of its size, but not having an Antilock Braking System standard just seems a little irresponsible on GM's part. Four-wheel disc brakes do help in the braking department. The LT 3.9-liter has ABS and the disc brakes, adding a valuable tire pressure monitor.

The LS (base) does have dual front airbags standard in both coupe and sedan; curtain side airbags come standard on all Impalas. Smaller safety features like daytime running lights and an emergency inside trunk release are standard on all models, as is a theft-deterrent system.

More power and better safety can be found in the SS Impala, which has been given a 5-star frontal crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA.)

Chevy does redeem itself in the safety category by providing OnStar assistance system w/one-year service on all Impalas and Monte Carlos. Like the commercials say, just push the OnStar button for everything from On Demand Diagnostics to driving directions to unlocking the door when the keys get locked inside. If the airbags deploy, a signal is sent to OnStar, and a dispatcher will contact you to make sure you're OK and will also send help if needed. You can even get weather, traffic and stock quotes from the Virtual Advisor4.

Interior

While you're playing with that spiffy OnStar system, take a look around at all the room that the Impala provides its passengers. It feels roomy, but, as mentioned earlier, feels a little dated. However, dated is much better than being so technologically complicated that it takes a manual to turn on the radio. GM uses its interior research well to provide easy to reach, easy to use radio and climate controls.

The Monte Carlo places climate controls a bit low for some, depending on driving position. The Impala tries to bring things into the 21st century with an Ipod jack – a good idea for attracting a younger crowd to the car's demographic.

The LS model does come with plenty of basic interior features, like air conditioning with an interior air filter (hooray for fewer allergens!) cruise control, cup-holders, and power steering, mirrors, windows and door locks.

Cloth upholstery is standard on the LS, with the Impala getting a front split bench seat and the sportier Monte Carlo providing front bucket seats. Conveniently, the driver has an eight-way power adjustable seat with a lumbar adjustment in both models. The Impala might be able to fit six people with the center console that lifts up to reveal more seating, but it's a tight fit. It's perhaps something best left for younger children. All front bench seat bottoms are a little too short for long-distance comfort, depending on occupants' height, obviously.

A column shifter switches gears in the Impala, while the Monte Carlo has a center console with the shifter connected. The base Monte-Carlos also all have an AM/FM/CD player, and digital clock. Lighting comes from dual map lights and visor mirrors. Outside, find convenient automatic headlights that won't run down the battery, because they'll turn off whether you do it manually or not..

Move up to the 3.5-liter LT and get dual-zone manual climate controls, remote engine start and outside-temperature indicator. The 3.9-liter LT adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, front bucket seats (to the Impala), and a folding rear seat. The sound system in the 3.9 LT is MP3 compatible.

The LTZ finally takes the interior to the level of leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a six-way power passenger seat in the Impala. However, one does loose the sixth seat due to the floor shifter and center console.

Also included with the LTZ is satellite radio, which is free for the first three months, and a spectacular Bose sound system (Impala only.) The Monte Carlo doesn't get Bose, but is upgraded to the Impala 3.9 LT. Other cool goodies that are standard on the LTZ are automatic dimming day-to-night rearview mirror and a universal garage-door opener. Add a power sunroof in the LT and up for $900, or add that Bose system or satellite radio for $300 to $500 more (depending on the model). Get leather upholstery in the LT 3.9-liter for a lot more cash - over $1,000 - but with it comes heated seats, and a 6-way power adjustable passenger seat to make the package more attractive.

Exterior

A conservative-looking car, the Impala has nice lines but isn't exactly remarkable. The SS helps with unique body trim and a rear spoiler, but all are, nevertheless, what one might think of as a 'stereotypical sedan.' The Monte Carlo is a little better with more original lines that still hearken back to its glory days. Choose from nine colors, some of which are unavailable on the SS. Lazer Blue Metallic is not available on the LS.

The LS Monte Carlo also gets a rear spoiler, and both it and the Impala get 225/60R tires over 16-inch rims with wheel covers. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels come standard on the LT 3.9-liter, along with 225/55R tires, front integrated fog lights and a rear spoiler.

Every Impala and Monte Carlo get halogen headlights which are clear and have a clean, geometric design that compliments and updates the look for both cars. All SS models get chromed-out dual exhaust pipes that look - excuse the car/rapper slang - incredibly sick along with the taillights. Get polished alloy wheels - for the SS only - for $300 more.

In Conclusion

So what's the verdict? Die-hard Chevy fans will love both cars for their practical-minded - if outdated with too much drab plastic - interiors, and the impressive response of the throttle in the infamous SS models.

And because the Impala has a slightly generic exterior, it's hard to see it as offensive. Of course, in today's world of customize, customize, customize, this can also be a bad thing.

The five-star NHTSA crash test rating for the Impala, however, is quite encouraging, even if base models don't come with ABS or traction control.

Most can find something better - or something with a little more to offer in certain categories - for the price of $20,000 to $30,000. In fact, the new Camry actually starts at around $19,000 and offers more safety features than does the Impala or Monte Carlo.

But if you're a rap star, 'donker,' or a Ford-hater, there are few better places to look than Chevy's big cars.

Pros: Decent cars if like you want retro, but aren't attached to having the product look exactly like the original. Impala SS is fun to drive and has great crash-test ratings.

Cons: Both models have less content, lower build-quality, cheap plastic parts in critical locations, and higher prices than comparable imports -- many of which are built here.

Ratings (1-10)

• Style: 6
• Performance: 8
• Price: 8
• Handling: 6
• Ride: 5
• Comfort: 7
• Quality: 4
• Overall: 6

More Data

Where Built: Canada

Major Options: Front side airbags, Antilock brakes, Power sunroof, Bucket seats, Front split bench seat, Folding rear seat, Leather upholstery, Woodgrain interior trim, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, Satellite radio, Bose sound system, Upgraded sound system, Universal garage door opener, Illuminated visor mirrors, Remote engine start prep, Engine-block heater, Rear spoiler delete, Alloy wheels, Polished alloy wheels.

Seating: 5 - 6.

Number of Rows: 2.

Length in Inches: 196.4 – 200.4

Warranties: 5 years/60,000 miles Powertrain, 3 years/36,000 miles Bumper to Bumper, 6 years/100,000 miles Corrosion protection, 3 years/36,000 miles Roadside assistance.

Weight in Pounds: 3,353 - 3553 lbs.

Cargo Capacity in Pounds: Not available.

Gross Maximum Vehicle Weight in Pounds: Not available.

Towing Capacity in Pounds: Not available.

Gas Tank Capacity in Gallons: 17.5

Destination Charge: $660