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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  Daily Driving - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By monte_z34 - September 27 - 10:00 am

  Awesome car. Great style and handleing with great burnout/ smoking capabilities. Definetly an incredible vehicle.

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  Best Monte Carlo - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Robertlang - September 18 - 10:00 am

  I dont know why Edmunds is dishing this car so badly. I love it and have owned 2 previous Monte Carlos (1980 and 1986)and this one is the best that Chevy has put out. I think it is a great deal for the price of the car and handles wonderfully for me. I also unlike Edmunds really like the appearance as it is a bit retro to the 80s models which I liked and think it is great looking; even the back end!

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  Great for work or play - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ms - September 17 - 7:10 pm

  Bought used with 14k, now have over 192,000 miles on it and I still get 28 MPG on the highway! Have the 3.8 V-6; wonder what kind of mileage Id get with a 5 or 6 speed auto? Put down the back seats and Ive carried ladders, lumber, 8-10 ft pieces of molding, vinyl flooring, you name it. Wish they hadnt stopped making it. I guess if I need to replace it Ill look for a 07.

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  Well worth the cost of maintenance - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By thegeneral2 - September 17 - 5:06 pm

  This car is fun to drive, handles well in all kinds of weather, with the right tires you can drive to hell and back. Rock solid car. I bought the car with 16,800 miles on it. It had sat for 10 months, first thing hap was the antifreeze line broke, had that fixed by dealer, than drove on a broken spring I didnt know about for 1 month then had it fixed no problem, then tranny was shot 1200. After that no other problems the tranyy whent at 19,800 miles the engine runs like the day it was born. Cant kill it. Now have 24,800 miles on the car. Looks new small scratch on left door my fault had Chevys before mc in 85 always the small things with these cars. Like window switch fuses. Doors creaking

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  04 Monte Carlo is a pleasant surprise - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By blucas2 - September 13 - 6:49 pm

  I bought this car as a "work" car due to driving so much for my job. I liked the styling and the price, so i bought her. She had 70,000 on her when i brought her home. I have had no problems with this car. Routine maintenance and a set of tires. She now has 126,000 miles and I am noticing a squeeking noise coming from my front left tire. Its probably a wheel bearing, not surprising at all. Not a big deal. This car has tons of power and gets about 27 MPG average. I cant ask for more from a car that is 8 years old and has 126,000 miles. Chevy really screwed up when they stopped making this gem. Get rid of the freaking Impala and start making the Monte again.

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  Very nice car - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By toegar - September 9 - 10:00 am

  My car has been a pleasure to drive. It has the pick up when you need it. It takes corners tight and with ease. The car gets a lot of compliments from stangers. Im 47 and never had this much fun with a car. The car has had no no major problems. I store it in the garage over the winter.

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  Best of the Best - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By John Christian - September 7 - 6:00 am

  My first SS. Handles better than my 1994 Pontiac Firebird, which I truly thought was a great ride. The interest I receive from other cars on the road is very gratifying. Everyrone turns their heads when passing by! I had a Ford GT pull along side of me, and he punched his accelerator, sped ahead of me, I lowered my pedal, and last saw him in my rearview mirror! It is an awesome car, would not consider another one. Too bad that GM is going to discontinue the line after 2008. This car is the car of the future, plus it has great gas saving ability, and all the power you need short of NASCAR!

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  Track Tested - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By olenc - August 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car mainly because of past Monte Carlo experience, and being a NASCAR fan of the # 3 Monte Carlo.I had the opportunity this summer to go to Talladega Superspeedway and take it 2 laps around the track. Awesome at 120 MPH!!! Awesome around the highway too. No problems so far. I bought it with 67,000 miles on it and I will put 55- 60,000 anually on it. Great experince so far.

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  Supercharged SS - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Kimberly Roach - August 28 - 2:56 pm

  I have had my Supercharged SS for just over 2 months and I love it! It is fun to drive. It turns heads everywhere I go! I shopped around before buying the Monte Carlo, and I couldnt be happier with the decision I made. It is a little rough on gas, but the good looks and speed make up for that!

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  Best car Ive ever owned. - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Henry Chantre - August 26 - 6:10 pm

  Its nearly six years old, with 39000 miles, and i still get compliments on its looks. Its by far the best car Ive ever owned