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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  OK except for repeated frontend problem - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Netman - January 1 - 2:00 am

  I love the car but I have had repeated front end problems. Problem is associated with the "intermediate shaft bearing" so the dealer says. It has been "fixed" several time. I am trading it in.

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  Great Car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By SDK-ASK - December 11 - 9:03 pm

  Bought as a GM certified car. It had 29k on it. The price was decent, the equipment level is great. Plenty of power, plenty of amenities. I got to drive it for 3 weeks before my wife borrowed it, she fell in love with it, and has been drving it since. (oh well, gotta keep her happy I guess) I got a new truck, but still enjoy driving this car. Even with 60k-plus miles, it still has plenty of power. Turn off the trction control, and spinning the tires is not a problem. The response from others is still very positive. If you are looking for a 2- door, but are concerned about space for backseat passengers, look no further. This car has plenty. Drive one, youll love it.

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  A Knock Out Car - But - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By RonD - December 5 - 5:03 am

  I love this cars appearance and performance. But, I have had a problem with grinding disc brakes since the day I purchased it (3 yrs). Dealer and a second party both say there is no problem with the brakes just rust from rain. It is most distracting on such a great looking and otherwise great performing car. Surprised that no other review mentioned this issue.

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  Pace Car Excellence - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Ritomcsspc - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought this 2000 mc pace car edition new and absolutely love it. The pace car package added to this vehicle was an excellent idea making a car that is one of a kind. There were only about 2222 of this type made for that year. I love the quality of this vehicle and have had no problems with the car. Even after owning it for over 3 years it still brings a thrill to drive it and still turns heads. Ive been very pleased with the power and handling of this car and have taken it through the curves on the road at 80 or 90+ mph without flinching. I love the power but am glad to here Chevy is now offering a supercharged edition of the 3.8 liter engine.

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  NICE!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Poopy - December 3 - 2:00 am

  THE BEST MUSCLE CAR ON THE MARKET 2DAY.

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  My Midlife Crisis Come True - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By doxcr - December 3 - 2:00 am

  As the result of an accident, I have been confined to a wheelchair (w/c) for the past 26 years. I started out driving a van converted to accomodate my chair; however, it is hard to find reliable businesses to repair w/c lifts and seating. I have been in love with the Monte Carlo SS for the past 30 years and when I saw the design of the Monte Carlo last year, I decided it was time to get myself strong enough to go to a car. There were a few issues in the beginning but now I am very pleased with my decision.

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  Monte Carlo Rating - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By JHTruman - December 3 - 2:00 am

  The car is an excellent collecting car and car to drive. Its very fast and powerful. It is great for comfort and it gets great milage. Its also a great looking car and very dependable.

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  8 - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By John 56 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  For the price its a nice hanlding good performance family car

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  The Worst Monte Carlo Poorly Built - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By lbuckland - November 17 - 8:13 am

  This was the 2nd monte carlo I purchase and believe me the worst. Problems first started 100 miles over warranty. Car would not shift into gear. Took to Chev was charged for a new ignition. Few months later same problem took to another shop told it was shifter cable. Pd again. About a yr later same problem. Next was the dash it started coming apart. Next, ac went out which happened with both monte carlos at 6 yrs. Well, now it is the transmission. As for the car not shifting if was the shifter when you would try and push button down to put in gear it would not go but would do it randomly. Finally, I figured out after so many times of paying it was mainly in the winter. Well, needless to say.

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  SS is a great car! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Mark s. - November 14 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my 2002 SS for 16 months and have really enjoyed the car. Chevrolet did a great job designing this very distintive car that it not like many others. The ride is great and all controls are easy to use. The handling is great and the V6 feels like a V8. Long trips are a breeze with the very comfortable leather bucket seats.