When it comes to this pairing of two- and four-door full-size GM cars, the 2006 model year ushers in not only fresh appearances but also some cool new sounds – those from an optional 303-horsepower V8 and from your iPod’s catalog of music.

Both models feature updated styling, but the biggest news is that their respective SS models are finally worthy of the double snake badging, courtesy of a 5.3-liter, eight-cylinder engine. We haven’t driven them yet, but we can say that the exhaust’s low rumble adds some needed edge to these rental fleet Hall of Famers. Also new for 2006 are standard V6 engines that offer more displacement and power than last year. Prices for the 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and 2006 Impala range from $21,990 for LS models to $27,790 for SS models (including a $660 destination charge). All models come standard with auxiliary iPod jacks and CD players, while upper level models add an MP3 player.