For 2007, the Monte Carlo loses a trim line and its corresponding engine. The top-line LTZ, newly-introduced for 2006, was a one-hit wonder; it’s gone, along with the 3.9-litre V6 that powered it, although it’s still available – now with Active Fuel Management for improved mileage – to U.S. buyers. The standard Monte Carlo now comes with only a 3.5-litre V6, although an E85 flexible-fuel-capable 3.5-litre is offered.
The LT trim line now comes with ABS and 17-inch wheels as standard equipment; a tire pressuring monitoring system is standard on 16-inch wheels; and XM Satellite Radio is now standard on the SS model. OnStar gains the optional Directions & Connections service plan with turn-by-turn navigation, and the SS can be ordered with a Rally Stripe package.
The Monte Carlo now comes in LS or LT trim, using the 3.5-litre V6, while the Monte Carlo SS uses a 5.3-litre V8. All three use a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission.
The LS includes 16-inch aluminum wheels, variable intermittent wipers, power mirrors, rear spoiler, dual-zone manual air conditioning, cruise control, floor mats, tilt wheel, power windows, cloth seats, 60/40 folding rear seat, CD player with six speakers, four-wheel disc brakes, power locks with keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system and OnStar.
The LT adds anti-lock brakes, 17-inch wheels, heated mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-wrapped wheel, six-way power driver’s seat, dual exhaust, sport suspension and traction control.
The SS package includes 18-inch aluminum wheels with performance tires, sport suspension with larger-diameter stabilizer bars, and XM Satellite Radio.
Based on a version of the Impala sedan’s platform, the Monte Carlo is one of the last of the big, hefty North American coupes, at least until the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger roll off the line. Despite its size, it’s fairly nimble thanks to its sport suspension; it’s also roomy, even in the rear seat. The loss of the bigger V6 is somewhat of a disappointment, especially given that the U.S. version now has a fuel economy system, but the 3.5-litre still works quite well in this car; performance buffs can move up to the V8, but it’s also a considerable step up in price, and it’s still front-wheel drive.
