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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  2006 Super Sport - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Remy-Z - January 17 - 3:26 pm

  I traded in a 2001 Buick Regal GS for the SS. I had high hopes after owning the Regal for four years, and without question Im not disappointed by the Monte. The shape of the outside is handsome without being obnoxious. The interior is spacious, especially for a coupe, seats my 65" frame nicely, and the interior is a nice improvement from the Regal, which was already nice. Of course, the focal point of owning a Super Sport is the performance, and this one does not disappoint. Just from the feel, it blows the memory of my 87 Monte SS out of the water.

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  Love my LS - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By BigKLB - January 9 - 10:00 am

  This is, to date, the best car I have ever owned, and I have owned many, many cars. I think it is a great value for the money. I have had no problems with this car at all. I am 62" and have plenty of head and leg room. The style and mechanics are right on the mark for me

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  My first car! - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By CAE - January 4 - 5:16 am

  My mom and dad bought this car hoping it would last me through college. Boy oh boy! We bought this car used for $17,000 (it was one year old). It had 22,000 miles on it as it had been a rental car. My dad was very weary, but I couldnt resist the bright red paint and spoiler. Once the windows were tinted and 17" rims were on it was a hot car! Now, 10 years later my first (and only) car just turned over 200,000 miles. I have really loved driving this car. It handles great, but repairs are never cheap (usually due to labor costs). Proper maintenance is key to this cars longevity. The paint is still shiny and the interior still has plenty of wear left on it.

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  05 LT 3.8 - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By buckshot - December 30 - 8:40 am

  The exterior styling is an acquired taste, but I think it looks great, retro enough to turn heads but not too much. The deep laser blue paint looks great, and has held up very well thus far. Interior is roomy, all controls are easily reached from the drivers seat. The glove box is the only flaw, it isnt fitted tightly enough under the dashboard, and there is an ugly gap. The leather seats are very comfortable, and the heating element does an amazing job. The 3.8l V6 provides OK power, but a v8 with a RWD setup would be best. First gear seems bit sluggish, car would greatly benefit fron a manual trans, or 5 speed auto. handling is OK, the car does roll have body roll, and needs a sway bar.

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  Great Basic Transport - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Ol Reliable - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new in 5/99, and have had NO problems with it at all. The only items Ive had to replace after 65000 miles are the tires, and the pads on the front disc brakes. This car is not a performance vehicle, but rather a reliable, comfortable car for every day travel or long distance trips.

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  cool car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Rick Sutton - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I love this car!! It drives great, has plenty of power and is fun to drive.

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  Great Going GM - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Harley60 - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Great handling a very comfortable ride. A chevy man for decades, a few year ago swithed to Jeep. Back to Chevy, will never own a Jeep or Chrysler product again.

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  Got to love it - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Carl244541 - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I had to replace my 94 old cutless supreme and I lived the styling of this car. It is very similiar to my olds in styling (actually better).

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  Better than my Benz - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Sunny Raye - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I had a 1998,1999, and 2000 Mercedes C class. This SS outdoes them all. Better ride, more comfortable, and its American!

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  Good car - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By rolando - December 11 - 1:03 pm

  I bought the car itÂ’s a 2007 Monte Carlo and its got 11,000 mil but one thing I notest is that on the steering column there is a knocking sound, When I turn. That is the same type of sound my old Chevy impala which was a 2003 had. And when I took it in to get it check they told me it was some kind of shaft in the steering column. I hope this car will not have that problem.