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:

• 

  A very good car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Bill - January 13 - 12:50 pm

  I bought my car new. I have driven it 68000 miles. I have never had any problems with it, and I get very good gas mileage. It still looks new inside and out, and I hope to drive it another 5 or 6 years. For a Chevrolet, I think it is a very good product.

• 

  My Last Chevy - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Tim Little - September 28 - 11:26 am

  Fell in love with the Montes after owning a 98. But now I am ready for a divorce. Paint is flaking off, sunroof no longer works, head light sockets keep melting, random rattling sounds under the car, bad a/c unit and broken seatbelt covers. And what did Chevy do about it when I called them? They gave me a survey about my Chevy ownership history and then told me that I was out of luck, that the paint problem was because of living in New England. Since I dont plan on moving, I apparently am discluded from owning any more Chevys. Of course, after they told me I was on my own with all the other issues, that was the last straw, and I babied this car! Horrible trade in value.

• 

  i had numerous problems with this car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By angry and unhappy ca - September 2 - 12:20 am

  i have had engine and suspension problems.

• 

  Just Purchased Monte Carlo - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Dan the man - August 29 - 10:00 am

  I was worried purchasing my first Chevy product since the early 70s & 80s. I have been very happy with my past Toyota and Honda purchases. Had no luck with Ford (Forever repairing Daily). But I use to enjoy my old GM products in my youth, so I gave Chevy another chance. So far I am really happy with the monte carlo. I like the styling and handling. I even have my daughters child seat in the back, and that has been easier than I expected. It may still be too early to tell, with 18,000 miles but so far so good. Lets hope I dont get disappointed, I need a reliable car and if this doesnt work out, its back to Toyota for good.

• 

  Montes worth the look - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By dtmsox - July 23 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a standard 3.8l SS last year, and the car has been everything I would have expected out of a $28,000 car. Acceptable performance, good handling, great sound system, and trouble free driving. Fuel economy regularly exceeds the rated 29 highway. Body style is regularly commented on in a positive light. This car has the ground effects package, everything is black on black.

• 

  Ignore the "experts"... a GERAT value. - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By rich n. - June 10 - 2:00 am

  Ignore what the "experts" write. This car is a GREAT value, with a large comfortable interior [Im 62"], quiet ride, satisfactory acceleration/ performance [not as if Im drag racing on I-95 too often], and plenty of creature comforts [I particularly appreciate the on-the-wheel stereo and cruise controls]. Obviously, styling is a personal preference, but I think the car looks sharp outside AND especially inside. My only significant complaint is the rattles that the service department has not solved. I STILL ENJOY GETTING INTO AND DRIVING MY CAR EVERY TIME.

• 

  Above average Monte Carlo - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Raze - June 9 - 4:33 am

  The auto industry criticizes the Monte Carlo for being subpar, but it is actually a great vehicle. It has guts, and enough performance potential to put a smile on anybodys face. There are also many parts available for a good price. The car is also very reliable. I know people with Monte Carlos and they say that they never had a problem and neither have I. The interior design may be a little outdated, but it is comfortable and functional, so it works. Fuel economy is pretty good, and if you like the design then I guarantee that you will love the car. The low and wide stance helps give that car good handling and great stability on the highway. this car is actually much better than average.

• 

  2000 monte is at least pretty - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By theunbound1 - May 10 - 10:00 am

  car mechanically stable....beautifull exterior design...my prob is the butt- ugle interior...everything is hard plastic and there is nothing really accenting anything..looks like they spent a lot of time designing the body and 10 seconds on the interior. the super-special radio sounds like a singe speaker radio in a tin can and is probably the worst stock radio ive ever heard. i keep bopping my funny bone on the hard plastic center console..and there is no cusion-like grip everywhere there should be. but hey it gets good gas milage and looks really really nice on the outside...

• 

  AWSOME CAR - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By DALOARI - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I LIKE IT I LOVE IT I WONT SOME MORE OF IT. THIS CAR RIDES LIKE A DREAM I DRIVE IT OVER 75 MILES A DAY BACK AND FORTH TO WORK. I HAVE ONLY HAD IF FOR 3 MONTHS WITH NO PROBLEMS AT ALL.FIRST CHEVY I HAVE ONED IN YEARS. I WILL GO BACK.

• 

  nice car - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Alexander Gogoberidz - April 14 - 2:00 am

  nice car. had no problems with it so far.