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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Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By 04montess - February 17 - 11:03 amGreat gas mileage. Roomy interior with lots of storage. Large aftermarket for parts.
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Great Car for the Money - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By karch - February 7 - 2:00 amIve had more good comments about this car than any I have owned. Its fun to drive, has loads of features, and looks great. The paint is fabulouse easy to keep shiney. Average about 23 mpg around town 27 on the highway at 75 MPH. Had a few early problems nothing major. One of the best dashboards with all but one button easy to see. Fog light button hidden by the steering wheel.
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Love my bright yellow Monte Carlo SS - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Phil - February 5 - 3:50 pmI saw this car in bright yellow on a dealers lot over an 1/8th of a mile from the street. It was so hot looking, I had to check it out. Before I knew it, I bought it. It rode way better than the Mustangs, was as quiet and road as well as a Cadillac, mine has every option except a power passenger seat or heated seats (which I dont really need where I live, and I usually drive alone anyway). This car has given me no problems since 2002, in fact, other than tires, I havent spent a dime on it, and here it is 2008, the way car dealers count age, the car is 7 years old and has NO problems. I cant say enough about how good a buy this car was, best car Ive had since 1969 Cougar Eliminator
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My Red Sexxy SS - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By LadySmack - January 27 - 10:00 amIt turns on a dime, and is very sporty...I have loved driving it for a while now, and the new still hasnt wore off in 1 year...my father has a 2000, and he told me he still loves to drive his....
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Monte Family - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Patti Baughman - January 27 - 8:00 amI love this car. It is my first brand new vehicle and it is great. It rides well, its comfortable to drive. The styling is good. I did not like the looks of the 06 so we got an 05. This car is very driver oriented. Plenty of room inside for passengers. We are now proud owners of 1970, 1998, and 2005 Monte Carlos.
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WOW - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By DADGUM - January 21 - 2:00 amThe power of this car is great for an already great 3800 searies v-6. The supercharger has make this engine even meanier then it was, I loved it
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Dont buy base... - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Monicca - January 21 - 2:00 amI have the Supercharged SS and its an incredible car. Excellent acceleration, smooth ride, comfortable interior, and lots of nice extras. Its definitely mid-sized but it has all the style of a sports car. I traded in a Mustang Cobra because although it was sweet, it was also loud, cramped, and overall uncomfortable. I dont regret the decision... My friend bought a Monte about a month after I did but he got the base model. Acceleration with the base is nothing spectacular, its extras are minimal, and its just not fun. You wouldnt think there would be such a huge difference but its well worth the extra money.
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Fun Family Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Herbert - January 21 - 2:00 amThe best performing car that Chevy has come out with (for its size), since the 1963 to 1965 Corvette. Has plenty of interior (even with sun roof) for people that are 6 feet 3 inches tall. Has plenty of trunk space for extended trips.
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Tony Stewart SS - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Bob Carter - January 18 - 2:26 amI bought the Tony Stewart SS model and have had it for about a year. I have had no problems. This car is a real head turner. Dont buy anything but an SS--this baby will get out and go
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My best car - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By greg miller - January 17 - 4:20 amThis car has never been back to the dealer. I do my own oil changes and inspections. Original battery, brakes. Just replaced tires two months ago. Everything works like new. Best cornering full sized car; like its on rails. Great sound system. Good leg room. Big trunk. Black. Dale Earnhardt car. 25 MPG on 80 MPH trips to Las Vegas.
