New V8 with Cylinder-Deactivation Powers Upgraded SS Model
One thing that has to be said for the current Monte Carlo is that it certainly is distinctive. And most NASCAR fans that I know
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| Chevy's new 2006 Monte Carlo was driven onto the stage during the Los Angeles Auto Show by NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon, accompanied by fellow driver Brian Vickers, Wednesday, January 5, 2005. (Joe Polimeni, General Motors of Canada) |
Its sculpted profile reminds me of the old Monte Carlos of the '70s and '80s, cars I particularly liked at the time. The current model's vertically stacked tail lamps make the Monte's rear styling as unorthodox as its front-end design, while chrome tipped dual exhaust, a deep racing inspired rear valance and large decklid spoiler enhance its appearance in SS trim.
The rear end design and side profile are all that carries over from the current Monte Carlo to the 2006 model, however, or in other words the new version gets an updated front clip. Still, GM expects the new coupe, introduced
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| GM expects the new coupe to find a much broader spectrum of buyers due to the updated styling, as well as improved performance and an all-new interior. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
Chevy has cleaned up the Monte's look, with a front end design that appears nearly identical to the recently updated 2006 Impala, which debuted in L.A. on the same day. A thin, horizontal grille opening, but not as thin as the outgoing car, is more understated, yet adds a sporty touch to what is otherwise a fairly conservative design. SS models get a racier lower valance that integrates a second horizontal grille opening, filled with a black-diamond crosshatch pattern - a treatment that mirrors that in the upper SS grille.