There was a time when the Monte Carlo was a symbol of prestige and performance for Chevrolet,but a front-drive platform and no available V8 engine took that reputation down several notches. For 2006,Chevrolet has cleaned up the Monte Carlo,giving it a more sophisticated interior and adding a much needed V8 engine to the SS trim level. The Monte Carlo should do better this year,as two of its biggest competitors,the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring,are no longer offered in coupe form. Rising fuel costs and a move away from SUVs and toward more personalized vehicles may also bode well for the Monte Carlo.