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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  My first new car - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Linda - November 14 - 8:16 pm

  This is my first new car purchased solely by myself. I got what I wanted a new Monte Carlo. I fell in love with the style. As a fairly new NASCAR fan I just had to have this car. It looks like no other car out there in a world of cars that all look pretty much the same. My passengers have told me the ride is very smooth and I agree. All the new technology is a bit overwelming and takes alot of learning. I think I will enjoy this car and always learning more about it.

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  Exception to The Rule? - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Monte Carlo Z-34 - October 23 - 1:10 am

  Overall a good purchase but expensive to maintain. Comfortable driver compartment but tight for rear passengers. A joy to drive and, contrary to others experience, Ive enjoyed good fuel economy, e.g., 28 mph highway and 21 in city. Black exterior/interior and styling (with rear spoiler)is catching and appealing. Just turned 336,000 miles - yes, thats over a third of a million. Have, other than continuous service, replaced the timing belt at 300,000 miles and transmission at 320,000. Have serviced car at dealership over 50 times in the 8 yrs of ownership. Expect to sell for $3,000 in spring of 2006.

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  2003 Monte Carlo - Love it - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By landerson - October 12 - 10:00 am

  I DRIVE my Monte Carlo. I love my Monte Carlo. I commute daily and I drive in a city during the day. The car rides great, looks awesome. It is sporty but also is like a full size car in comfort. I purchased an LS but plan to trade up to an SS in about a year! Great buy

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  MONEY WELL SPENT! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By MR.G - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I NEEDED A THIRD CAR,AS A SPARE AND HELP LOWER FUEL COST FOR IN CITY DRIVING,THAT WAS EASY TO PARK.I DID RESEARCH AND STARTED LOOKING FOR THIS CAR.PAID $13500.WITH 34000 MILES.3.99% INTEREST RATE.IF YOU HAVE THE TIME YOU CAN SAVE THOUSANDS.BUT YOU HAVE TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK.

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  Frayed Wires - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By graciebh - September 7 - 6:52 am

  With the exception of this, I did love my Monte Carlo. Wires frayed and broke at 32,000 miles on the shifter causing the shifter to stick in park. Also caused my battery to die. Dealer and complaint to Chevy was answered with average wear and tear, out of warranty. Sorry 32,000 miles going from park, drive and reverse caused wear and tear on wires that are hidden under the console?

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  Put to the test Monte - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Kylene King - September 2 - 3:53 am

  The 1999 Monte Carlo Z34 was my very first car, and Ive had it for over 3 years. Naturally, as a teenager, Ive put it through a lot. The leather option is nice, but is somewhat "cheap" feeling, not at all like the leather found on newer models. Gas mileage I would have to say is "average." As a high-end V6, it definitely has power. Handling is good, steering seems good to me. The AC and heat is "average."

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  Love it except... - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Joan - August 5 - 10:00 am

  My car is wonderful, but... it has this nasty problem of quitting sometimes. No one can figure it out. Have changed a lot of parts, no help. HELP!!!

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  Love it except... - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By joan - August 5 - 10:00 am

  My car is wonderful, but... it has this nasty problem of quitting sometimes. No one can figure it out. Have changed a lot of parts, no help. HELP!!!

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  Monte Carlo 2004 - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Kristina - August 2 - 3:50 am

  This car is great and very reliable. Im a single mom though of 4 children. I really need to get a larger car. However I love my Monte Carlo! This car is very comfortable even with my children in the car. 4 doors would be nice though.

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  Love the car but too many problems - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By dalesrfan - July 29 - 11:33 pm

  I love my monte ss however there has been a lot of problems with wiring flickering lights, paint issues after only having the car for 3 years the paint was bubbling and now just peeling off. Gm told me they would do nothing, also catalytic converter problems and most recent oil pan completely rotted out.