Overview & Reviews

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo traces its roots back several decades to the height of the muscle car era, when Chevy sought to entice customers with a sporty, upscale rear-drive V8 coupe that provided a balance of performance and comfort in a stylish package. From those early years -- which included big-block SS (Super Sport) editions -- the Monte Carlo evolved toward a more luxury-oriented persona, saw significant downsizing (to optimize fuel efficiency) and soldiered on as a popular rear-drive sport coupe until 1988, when it was replaced by the Lumina coupe.

Following a lengthy hiatus, the Chevy Monte Carlo emerged once again in 1995. However, by then it had been softened and saddled with a carryover front-wheel-drive platform and V6 engines that barely hinted at the performance of years gone by. It was, in essence, a Lumina coupe.

The current-generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe debuted in 2000 with more distinctive styling and updated underpinnings from the Impala sedan to better meet the needs of today's buyers. Significant changes in 2006 helped the Monte Carlo come nearly full circle back to its original mission with sportier chassis tuning, improved driving dynamics and more power in SS models, while freshened interior and exterior styling offer a sculpted and pleasing contemporary appearance. In spite of those updates, sales remained sluggish and the Monte Carlo was gone after the 2007 model year.

Although much improved in its latter years -- including a return to available V8 power in SS trim -- we feel that other performance sport coupe competitors like the Mustang offer a more satisfying choice as long as you don't mind giving up some interior room. In reviews, our editors felt that the Monte Carlo was primarily a comfortable cruiser more at home in the fast lane than on twisty mountain roads. If the latter is your preferred driving environment, you may want to consider other brighter, more focused alternatives.

Most Recent Chevrolet Monte Carlo

The Chevrolet Monte Carlo received a major update for the 2006 model year and it remained a midsize two-door coupe that came in three trim levels: the base but reasonably well-equipped LS, the more upscale LT and the performance-oriented SS. Under the hood of LS and LT models is a 3.5-liter V6 with 211 horsepower, while the SS boasts a responsive 5.3-liter V8 with 303 hp. Impressive numbers, yes. But they would've been even better if they powered the rear wheels like Monte Carlos of years ago, especially in the case of the SS. A front-engine/rear-drive layout is typically preferable for optimum weight distribution and balanced handling, especially when the engine is a heavy V8.

Overall, this version of the Chevy Monte Carlo, which only lasted through '07, was a spacious sport coupe that offered buyers a reasonably good comfort/performance trade-off for a relatively low sticker price. Although quick in a straight line, the V8-equipped Monte Carlo SS suffers from a nose-heavy feel. If quick reflexes are on your wish list instead and you don't mind tighter passenger quarters, we suggest you consider a smaller but more nimble sport coupe, such as an Acura RSX or Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Past Chevrolet Monte Carlo Models

Used-car shoppers interested in a late-model Monte Carlo will likely encounter the previous-generation model, which was available from the 2000-'05 model years. Based on the then-new Impala platform and wearing fresh, distinctive (some said ugly) sheet metal with heritage styling cues, the Monte Carlo was originally offered as an LS with a 3.4-liter V6 engine making 180 hp, or an SS with a 200-hp 3.8-liter V6. A driver side airbag -- as well as traction control and OnStar on SS models -- was added as standard safety equipment in 2001, and all models received four-wheel disc brakes, traction control and remote keyless entry in 2003. In a bid to boost its performance image, Chevrolet added a 240-hp supercharged engine option for the SS in 2004.

Previous to this model, there was the Lumina-based Monte Carlo, which became available for the 1995 model year in LS or Z34 sport trim levels. Those wishing to hit the fast lane are advised to stick with the 210-hp 3.4-liter twincam V6 in the Z34. Detail improvements carried the Monte Carlo through the next several years, though only the most eagle-eyed used-car shoppers are likely to appreciate the differences.

User Reviews:

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  i have the intermerdator edition - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By peter walsh - November 3 - 4:36 pm

  I love my monte carol ss i bought it used it has 89,456 miles on it end it still drives like new like the interior and the outside my is black on black inside and the seats are signed by dale earnheart how many people have that....i only had the car for about 3 days.

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  New Monte Carlo - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Knights man - October 29 - 6:50 pm

  Bought my new black Monte LT and so far really like it. It now has 5,000 miles on the clock and the engine feels like it has loosened up a bit giving me better mileage and power. I have got over 30 on the highway and usually 24-25 in town. This car handles too! I could wish for exterior door molding protection as I had to order that from Chevy parts and the floor shifter should have indicators like they used to. I also would prefer it if the rear spoiler was an option instead of std.

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  Great car - Not so great interior - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By lilbit - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Monte 9 months ago brand new and absolutely love everything about except the plastic interior around the stereo component and the console is starting to flake away. I am working on trying to get that fixed but havent gotten anywhere yet. Other than that I have had no mechanical problems whatsoever and the car is a blast to drive.

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  MC-1 - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By sleepyhollow - October 28 - 2:00 am

  First brakes at 44700, all wheels wearing very evenly. New brakes pads squeek however. Just had first new battery at 45000. Original corroded severly and positive post fell off battery. Recommend change out after 3- 4 years reqardless of condition. Very difficult to access battery, under windshield washer. Very thin an weak hood sheet metal. Dents if you push it closed. Let drop to close.

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  I Love My SS - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Monte2003SS - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I traded a 2001 Monte Carlo LS for this Superior Blue SS. I loved the color from the first moment I saw it. I think the car is great and I love driving it. I am proud to say that it is the "baddest" looking ride on the street.

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  Best Vehicle I Have Ever Owned - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jeffm - October 24 - 6:53 am

  I purchased my Dale Earnhardt Edition SS Supercharged vehicle almost brand new (It had 4,733 miles on it when I purchased it). This car is awesome! It provides me with brisk acceleration from any speed, and the ride is very smooth! The interior is roomy, and I need all the room I can get (60 215). I can stretch out, and it is a comfortable car (not to mention fun) on long road trips. It is very reasonable on gas...I average about 27.5 MPG in a combination of city and highway driving. The car is absolutely beautiful when you finish washing and waxing it! I plan on keeping this car for many years to come!

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  1 year Review - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By JJ - October 16 - 7:26 pm

  Excellent front wheel drive performance coupe. I have owned performance coupes since the late 1960s (GTO, Cuda, Olds 442, Road Runner, Trans AM and Malibu SS) and this car reminds me allot of the 1969 GTO Judge I owned - in terms of handling, performance and pure fun to drive. Highly recommended..

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  Still enjoy drving it - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Russ - October 16 - 7:00 pm

  Its a good daily driver that still turns heads almost like when it was new. I only drive about 11k mi. per year, but take some 7+ hour road trips. Its a big comfy car that looks sporty and gets great gas mileage. Seems very stable at high speeds. I got an extended warranty still in effect which has paid off. Stuff that failed: hazard flashers in 1st year; 3 year - main computer died as did the battery; 5-year - catalytic converter failed and burned up the intake manifold and seals, alternator went out, in the shop several times for the intermediate steering shaft (fixed now?), and a front wheel bearing went out. Some other weird computer quirks with interior lights and auto locks.

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  My Honest Opinion - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Sanmae - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I actually have a 2002 purchased in August. This is my 2nd Monte, first was a 2000. I have to say I had never had a Chevy and once I drove the Monte Carlo, I was hooked for life! I was a Firebird formula 400 or Grand Prix person since 1969. Every 2-3 years but not, always a Monte.

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  I love my Monte Carlo - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ADianeS - October 14 - 3:06 pm

  This is one of the best rides I have ever owned. I had 1999 Mustang and loved it, but the comfort and performance of the Monte Carlo is far better. I love it.