2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo in Asheboro, NC - $17,500

The darling of the NASCAR sports car circuit receives serious street credibility for 2006 with the Monte Carlo SS coupe. Built at the automaker's award-winning Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, manufacturing complex, the new SS coupe is equipped with an all-new aluminum small-block 5.3L V8 engine. The new small-block V8 features fuel saving Displacement on Demand technology (DoD) and was exclusively developed for front-drive applications.

Power is communicated to the pavement through a heavy-duty version of the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission.

DoD technology enables fuel economy gains by reducing the number of cylinders engaged in the combustion process. A sophisticated engine controller determines when to deactivate cylinders, allowing the engine to maintain vehicle speed in lighter-load conditions such as highway cruising. When the cylinders are deactivated, the engine effectively operates as a V4, with alternative cylinders on each cylinder bank disabled. The engine returns to V8 mode the instant the controller determines the vehicle speed or load requires additional power. The process is seamless and virtually imperceptible.

Exterior cues for the Monte Carlo SS include a distinct dual-split front grille with a SS-signature black-diamond crosshatch pattern and finished with full-perimeter lower ground effects. At the rear, a unique NASCAR-inspired spoiler and Corvette-inspired bright exhaust tips complete the aggressive look.

On the road, the Monte Carlo SS is fun, fast, secure and controlled. Substantially reassuring at speed, the SS is an excellent rural midwestern tourer in the traditional sense. Real estate passes quickly as the miles melt away in comfort. For those looking to trade their 2002 Camaro, be sure to consider the Monte SS coupe.

The new Monte Carlo SS benefits from revised chassis and suspension systems applied across the entire Monte Carlo model line including a robust front-end structure that provides a firmer foundation to help reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) while also enhancing steering and handling performance; fully boxed upper frame rail assemblies that feature a wider, deeper and structurally stronger upper front tie bar; a stronger front-of-dash panel constructed of Quiet Steel laminated steel to reduce resonant sound; and an extruded aluminum engine cradle that contributes to a vibration-free ride.

Front suspension hardware consists of an independent MacPherson strut coil-over-spring setup with gas-charged four-valve struts, taller jounce bumpers and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension uses a trailing arm, tri-link set up with gas-charged four-valve struts, coil springs and a stabilizer bar.

The Monte Carlo SS is equipped with a FE4 suspension, which includes 18-inch W-rated P235/50R18 AL3 Goodyear Eagle RS-A performance tires to provide a sporty ride that complements the V8's performance. A larger 34-mm hollow front stabilizer bar and 18-mm solid rear stabilizer bar combine to provide more roll control than the standard Monte Carlo suspension packages. Also, increased stiffness helps reduce body lean and contributes to greater high-speed stability.

The new Monte Carlo SS enters the midsize coupe segment with enhanced premium-quality features and attention to detail. The Chevrolet coupe's all-new instrument panel layout and control stack is woven into '06 models, along with a sportier shifter with chrome accents.

All of the Monte Carlo SS seating features cleaner, simpler and more tailored appearances. Firmer cushions and increased lumbar support across all models provides more comfort, especially during long drives.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 110.5; overall length: 196.7; width: 72.9; height: 55.8 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 5.3L V8 -- 303 hp at 5,600 rpm and 323 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed electronically-controlled automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 18 city/28 highway.

Cargo capacity: 15.8 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, daytime running lamps, automatic headlamps, remote keyless entry, remote vehicle starter system, battery rundown protection, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic traction control, automatic programmable door locks, OnStar communications system with one-year Safe & Sound Plan, PASS-Key III Plus theft-deterrent system, tire pressure monitor and fog lights. Optional safety features include Universal Home Remote transmitter and front seat-mounted side-impact airbags.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS coupe starts from $27,130. Destination charges add $660.

As tested

2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS coupe

Exterior color: Laser Blue metallic

Interior color: Ebony

Tire make/model: Goodyear Eagle RS-A

Tire size: P235/50R18

Base price $27,130

Destination charges $ 660

Convenience package $ 240

Power sunroof $ 900

Leather seats $ 795

Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags $ 350 XM satellite radio $ 325

18-inch polished aluminum wheels $ 295

AM/FM/6-disc CD/MP3 audio system $ 295

8-speaker premium sound system $ 250

Total as tested $31,240

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