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2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Mid-Size Coupe and Impala Sedan
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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.
