2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

Featuring torque-rich V-6 engines

From the number of checkered flags the Chevy Monte Carlo has taken at NASCAR events, one would be right in thinking that generations of Chevrolet Monte Carlo designs were penned with winning in mind. The latest version drives into 2005 with subtle changes to its successful formula.

2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo front

Model lineup

For the 2005 model year, Chevrolet realigned the midsize Monte Carlo models to include the LS, LT and Supercharged SS. Each of these Monte Carlos features its own torque-rich V-6 engine that sends power to the front wheels via a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission. The suspension is fully independent, the steering is rack-and-pinion, and disc brakes are found at all four corners.

New for 2005

* LT model (supersedes 2004 SS model)
* OnStar is now standard – new Gen 6 hardware with upgraded hands-free capability
* 17-inch diamond-cut cast aluminum wheels available with chrome finish on Supercharged SS
* New exterior colors include: Laser Blue Metallic, Sport Red Metallic and Silverstone Metallic

OnStar becomes a significant new standard feature for 2005. OnStar-equipped Monte Carlo models feature new sixth-generation hardware with digital and analog coverage. OnStar’s Gen 6 hardware also includes upgraded hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada. Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Personal Calling that allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls using a powerful three-watt digital/analog system and external antenna for greater reception.

The OnStar one-year Safe and Sound Service, and the hardware to use it, is now standard in every Monte Carlo. The provided services include automatic notification of air bag deployment, emergency services, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle tracking, AccidentAssist, remote door unlock, remote diagnostics, online concierge and remote activation of the vehicle's horn and lights. Owners can also opt for other available OnStar services, including making and receiving voice-activated, hands-free phone calls with Personal Calling and getting location-based traffic and weather reports with Virtual Advisor.

To help prevent the cluttered look of multiple antennae sprouting from the rear deck, the traditional whip-style OnStar antenna has been replaced with a clean, new roof-top design. When buyers order XM Satellite Radio, its antenna is integrated into the OnStar unit for a clean exterior appearance.

Also for 2005, Chevrolet discontinued the non-supercharged SS model and replaced it with the LT model. In keeping with ever-changing customer preferences, three new colors have been added: Laser Blue Metallic, Sport Red Metallic and Silverstone Metallic. Also, for the first time, the available 17-inch diamond-cut cast aluminum wheels can be had with a chrome finish on the Supercharged SS model.

Monte Carlo power

This Chevrolet features a trio of V-6 engines that produce the kind of torquey power drivers love. Each Monte Carlo model has its own powertrain, and each matches that specific model's character.

The value-oriented Chevy Monte Carlo LS features the 3400 V-6. The 180 horsepower (134 kw) 3400 V-6 features an overhead valve (OHV) head design, aluminum heads and a cast iron block. This combination is ideal for torque production (205 lb.-ft./278 Nm), durability and economical operation – the Monte Carlo LS is noted for its best-in-class fuel economy among V-6 competitors. The LS's Hydra-Matic 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission features a tall 2.86:1 final drive ratio – a significant contributor to the powertrain's efficiency.

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo LT uses the refined 200 horsepower (149 kw) 3800 Series II V-6. This engine often surprises drivers with its power, smoothness and quietness. Technically speaking, 90 percent of the engine's peak 225 lb.-ft. of torque (305 Nm) is available at only 1000 rpm, just off idle. Years of detail work have earned this OHV engine many national and international awards, as well as a solid reputation within the engineering community. In the LT, the Hydra-Matic uses a shorter final drive ratio of 3.29:1 for improved acceleration.

The Chevy Monte Carlo Supercharged SS sports its namesake version of the boosted 3800 Series II Supercharged V-6.This award-winning engine boasts a torque curve that is consistently high over a broad operating range, providing instant, off-the-line acceleration and ample power for highway merging and passing. The 3.8L supercharged (SC) engine generates 240 horsepower (179 kw) at 5200 rpm, and an impressive 280 lb.-ft. (380 Nm) of torque at 3600 rpm. Boost levels of up to 8 pounds can be monitored via the boost gauge integrated into the instrument cluster.

The 3800 SC features a compact, 90-cubic-inch Roots-type supercharger. This engine has been improved over the years by refining multiple individual components and the controlling software in the powertrain control module. As a result, the engine delivers power in a smooth, linear fashion by adding boost at predetermined points along the power curve. This performance is further supported by the 3800 SC's outstanding record for durability.

In the Monte Carlo Supercharged SS, the 3800 SC is matched to a heavy-duty version of the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The final drive ratio of this transmission is 2.93:1.

Chassis and suspension

Monte Carlo's body structure provides the foundation for superb ride and handling. A unique extruded aluminum engine cradle helps isolate engine noise and vibration, and the overall tautness of the Monte Carlo's body structure allows the four-wheel independent suspension, with MacPherson struts, to be finely tuned to enhance performance.

Specific chassis and suspension changes provide the Monte Carlo Supercharged SS with sportier ride and handling capabilities. Spring rates are increased both front and rear, and the rear ride height is lowered by 10 mm. Larger 34-mm front and 19.5-mm rear stabilizer bars (compared to 30 mm/17.2 mm in Monte Carlo LS), refinements to the rear trailing link and rear strut mounts, plus speed-rated Goodyear P235/55R17 W-rated tires mounted on 17-inch cast aluminum wheels complete the performance package.

Comfort and convenience abound

Monte Carlo has as much as 7 more cubic feet (198L) of interior room than any non-GM competitor in its class. In Monte Carlo's roomy yet sporty interior, the list of standard equipment includes:

* A sound system with RDS (Radio Data System)
* Climate control system with individual driver and front passenger temperature settings
* Standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat adds to Monte Carlo's 15.8 cubic feet (447L) of trunk space, making it more usable, especially for long cargo

Safety and security

Attention to safety and security is also key to Monte Carlo's success. It has a five-star rating (the highest rating possible) for driver and front passenger protection in U.S. government frontal crash tests. Available safety equipment, depending on model, includes anti-lock brakes, a driver's side-impact air bag, a tire-inflation monitoring system, a passive theft-deterrent system and remote keyless entry.

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