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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  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.

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  Most Impressive - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Bob-S - May 30 - 10:00 am

  This car is Chevys best kept secret. Its fun to drive and gets the looks wherever it goes. This is as close to a Real Muscle Car look as you get these days, and has all the toys that you could want, all in an affordable package with not bad fuel economy. Nicely done Chevy...

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  Disappointment - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By benz2btm - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Starts rough, engine dies when warm and must be re-started, moonroof stuck open with no manual close and/or listing as to motor location.

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  MC - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Rupi - May 17 - 10:00 am

  gretas car. Runs great makes you feel like nascar driver. smooth drive and very comfy. Sporty family car. lots of space. Good balance in snow

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  Nice car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jmt - May 17 - 10:00 am

  2nd Monte Carlo Ive owned, the first time I saw the car I knew I had to have one. I have been very happy with the car to date.

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  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...

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  Chevys Best - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Larry Gehrs - May 5 - 12:30 pm

  I have a Tony Stewart special edition Monte Carlo 2005 ,supercharged, The car is very fast and the car is good handling. For the up most, the car is built strong and sturdy. Very well built and one of the best on the road

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  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.

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  (Not So) Proud Owner - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Will - May 4 - 12:16 am

  I am the (not so) proud owner of what I thought was a nice used car. Bought this with 47,000k fully loaded, which isnt bad for a 2006, only to discover transmission problems two weeks and 300 miles after purchasing. I like the car, but am disgusted with its performance. It slams into gear from park and hesitates to get into first, often jerking into first gear. Was told the car had a warranty when purchasing only for the dealer to have no record of the warranty. Lucky me for purchasing a car out of warranty. After dealing with the Chevy dealer (seller) and GM, I can say the two have lost a longtime and formerly loyal GM customer. NEVER AGAIN!

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  Awesome - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By JIM PETRUCCI - May 1 - 11:46 am

  Anyone who grew up in the 60s and 70s remembers the throaty sound of factory hotrods, well guess what, its back. Aside from a great ride, the handling, power and sheer fun is back in this car. It seems that GM has learned from the NASCAR experience. Slight torque steer doesnt take away from this gems muscle car heritage. This car starts to really cook after 80 mph. displacement on demand is seamless and makes the gas mileage great for a car with 300+ hp. Im averaging 20.6 with only 1000 miles on the car it can only get better as the motor breaks in. The aerodynamics of the bodystyle add to the eye appeal. This car touches all 6 senses at the same time.