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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  Nice car - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Guy - March 13 - 3:40 pm

  Very sporty looking car, but hard to maintain sometimes & I swear that it has the turning radius of a Mack truck! Id like to get my hands on the guy that designed those disc brakes. I cant keep a set of rotors on this car to save my life! There have been frequent, minor emission systems problems to troubleshoot over the years as well. Getting a tune up is expensive because of the way the engine is laid out. Gas mileage does not appear to be a strong point as well. The car looks great, but try & find a replacement for the rear spoiler brake light bar. I couldnt! Starting & battery system isnt that great either. Im buying a hydrid next time.

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  Nice Looking Monte SS but...Theres room for Improvement - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By carguy310 - March 8 - 8:41 am

  Bought my 03 Monte Carlo SS used in August 2010 with 113K miles. One owner car before I acquired it. Never been hit or wrecked. Was well maintained. A/C wasnt working when I got it so I had to replace the A/C compressor right away due to leaky seals. Less than a month after purchase goes by, engine went bad at 114K miles. It needed a complete rebuild due to a gasket leak allowing the fluid to run into the cylinders & caused a rod to go bad. A couple of interior buttons & dash lights are blown. The fan speed dial does not work on 1 at times but works on 2-5 with no issues. The body has a tiny wee bit of rust on it. Mostly on the fuel door(outside) and the doors (inside).

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  Better than most expect - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Malaclypse - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car for over a year and am rather pleased with how its handled both in terms of driving and reliability. The key to keeping this car for a very long time is maintainence. Take care of this car and itll take care of you.

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  Monte SS - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Mr E - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car and so far has been nothing but fun fun fun. The car had 68,000 miles even though the car is almost 10 years old, but when I say well kept! No problems so far except for the warning orange light for tire pressure that stays on which Im used to now. I would love for Chevy to build more SSs such as the Monte Carlo and the Impala for 2011.

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  I like em "low and wide" - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jimmie guillory - September 21 - 4:43 pm

  This was the last year for this model. Now Chevy has gone to the tall and narrow styling which has no appeal for me. My Monte Carlo has been a reliable and comfortable piece of transportation. And the gas mileage on the hiway approches 30 mpg. Not too shabby!

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  Montecarlo - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By hastica - September 2 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! Rides smooth, very reliable. Comfortable for all riders( yes i have rode in the back) Plenty of space for luggage and other stuff. Used this car for myself and two friends to go to a nascar race, Very comfortable and roomy. Nice car for someone who want the sports look and room for the family!

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  Excellence = Monte Carlo Supercharger - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Supercharged Lady - July 21 - 2:00 am

  A striking car that get 2nd glances and positive comments from both sexes and all ages. Reasons for choosing this car ... I was drawn to the gorgeously designed 2004 Supercharger engine and body, no other car in its class had as many useful features or as much style. No other make of car this size offered the design features this car has ... absolutely beautiful.

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  satisfied - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By robert henry - July 20 - 10:00 am

  very able auto. alot of features and safety for the money. rich look to the body

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  Decent - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Wade - July 6 - 2:40 am

  I love driving this thing! However I have had major issues, alternator went once and nearly killed me the way it went off. I have also replaced the controls arms for three wheels. It gets really good mileage on the HW (nearly 30 most of the time) and around 18 for daily around the town use. Ive also had issues with the brakes but nothing major. Good car for the price and after reading other reviews my experience seems to be an outlier. I love driving it though and I would be another if it came along.

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  Good Overall - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ShafinKS - July 1 - 4:30 am

  Gas mileage great for its size. Road noise is terrible.