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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  Best used car purchse to date - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By TEEGEE - March 11 - 10:00 am

  The Chevy Monte Carlo was by far the most comfortable, quietest and best handling car of the cars I tested. The interior is well equiped, (it could use another cup holder and a place for sun glasses) the leather supple, the instrument cluster easy to see. The steering is tight and has a well defined feeling to it. The ride is quieter than the Toyota. Acceleration is a bit on the slow side from zero to sixty. The transaxle shifts very smoothly; the ride is soft not spongy. Rear headroom is limited to those over six-feet tall. The fold down rear seating is a nice feature. Of the used cars I have owned this is the best.

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  2004 vs 2000 - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By spotts - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I have purchased 2 SS Montes and while I have loved them both, I need to ask why GM cheapened it in 2004. I did a favor for my inlaws and passed along my 2000 SS with only 31000 and ordered my 2004 expecting it to be identical, boy was I surprised. GM removed the gear selection from the console, took out the glove box light, did away with the coin holder, and took off the "Monte Carlo" emblems from the side. And what is up with all of the mirrors being black except on the yellow paint. I love my SS, but I cant believe that GM removed some of the "nice to have" items to gain a few bucks, shame on you.

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  Fun car "But" - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jdbca - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Love the car but hate the service from the local dealers. The front rotors have warped twice in a year. Service department seems to think this is not a warrantee situation.

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  06 LTZ - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By mrrench - February 16 - 3:13 pm

  I got my LTZ at the end of May. The car is great. Since I got the car. no problems with it at all. The 3.9 v-6 has plenty of power. Why they did away with it in 07 beats me. The dealer has already contacted me twice about selling the car back to them because of the demand for the 06. Just in case you all dont know, they do not make the LTZ in 07.

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  Reliable, and Lots of Fun! - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By roman238 - February 10 - 1:35 am

  I no longer own this car, but I felt it deserved my review. Bought this car used in 2002 with 23,000 miles on her. At the time it was overall the best car I had ever owned, and Ive owned quite a few. At 34k the rear seals went bad, (a common problem with the 3100 that year). At about 45k I replaced the brakes. The muffler cracked at 60k...replaced that. The gas tank at 64k and the water pump at 85k. I put new tires on when I first bought her, and they passed inspection in May 2012. Other than those repairs, all I did was change the oil and rotate the tires. In Nov. of 2012, I traded the old girl in on a 1998 Monte Carlo Z34 with only 45k which I will review as well. The best car I ever had!

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  In Love with my Monte - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Nightnurse - February 8 - 2:00 am

  A dream machine..My Black SS. Love the pick up....Please officer I need to get to work..Would NOT trade it for any other car.

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  I love my Monte Carlo SS - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By MistyJ - February 8 - 2:00 am

  My Monte Carlo is the best thing I have ever bought. Since I was a little kid, I have always wanted one. My dream came true, and I have nothing but good things to say about the car. Its a guy magnet at Nascar Races.

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  06 Monte-Best of a Tradition - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Alan - February 1 - 8:56 pm

  The only problem with my Monte, is that I should have bought the SS. I have had my Monte for 4 years, and to date, it has been bullet proof. The only problems have been a stale odor from the AC, and some earlier remote key issues. It has 44,000 miles on it, and I have changed my oil every 3,000 miles, and recently switched to Mobil One, and installed a K&N air filter. The brakes are original, and have over 50% remaining. My Monte is a glossy black, with fabric seats (should have been leather), that are too light in color, and show dirt. It is sporty, and can get out of its own way, even with the 3.5 L engine. I have 44,000 miles, and plan to keep my car indefinitely.

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  Its ok - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ForeignbutAmerican - January 30 - 4:13 pm

  This car was much better than my 96 Chevy Blazer but the fuel economy is probably the same compared to it. It is a sports car but as soon as I start the car, its the the fuel gauge goes down! It drives pretty well and I like the extra umph it gives. But I had so many problems with it its not even funny. Surprisingly, it wasnt with the engine. I had window issues, a.c issues, radio issues, tire issues, axle issues, compressor issues, etc. This is a fun car to drive for the time being but over all, I love my baby and is grateful for it. This is a 2001 vehicle and it is now 2009 and I still get compliments! That says a lot!

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  Bought it out of showroom - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By dnaangel - January 27 - 9:55 am

  Bought this car in 1999 out of the showroom and STILL use it as my daily driver. 178k miles and still runs strong, fun car to drive though not as much umph as it used to (to be expected) Definitely showing it age after 15+ years of use. No major issues as of yet (*Knocks on wood*), have changed the Waterpump, Fuel Filter, Sunroof and Passenger side window motors, Radiator and Vaccum line to A/C compressor as well as Valve Cover Gaskets over those 15 years, thats about it on major repairs. To this day Sunroof and A/C still work, will still lay rubber through 2nd gear and loves to be opened up.