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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  Supercharged fun - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By GIVEMEPOWER - July 13 - 2:13 pm

  The Supercharged SS is the only way to go with this vehicle. While power could be greatly improved yet to keep up with Mustang and Charger, overall the vehicle has decent pickup. Great handling and a simple but spacious interior make this a fun car to drive... a real head turner.

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  Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jkh83 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Although many car magazines analysis of this car are harsh, I feal as though thi sis an excellent car. I have had for eight months now and have had no problem. The fuel economy is great (26mpg avg.) and the ride is quite compliant. This car isnt the fastest car on the block, but it is a joy to own.

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  Not so bad - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By TheRat - July 8 - 8:06 am

  This is the third GM car that I have purchased. Love the style. Have had only one problem other then normal maintenace.

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  good car - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By okteltim - June 14 - 2:00 am

  Good car and is fun to drive. Good mileage around town (25+)when keeping the foot out of the CARB.

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  Hugely underrated - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By j.j. - June 10 - 9:10 am

  Front wheel drive is a tradeoff. You can drive in any weather, but under hard acceleration, theres that torques steer. Aside from the whole front wheel drive arguement, this car is fun. Its fast. Priced way below what youd have to pay for a foreign car this fast. I sold my 99 m-3 because it was undriveable in snow, and totally dangerous in wet weather. This SS Monte does it all, no matter what the weather.

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  Lookin Good and not Broke! - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Goldiespeople - June 4 - 10:00 am

  In the two years weve owned this vehicle it has taken us on countless trips with no problems. In our opinion great vacation vehicle for a couple.

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  excellant car - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By BK - May 31 - 1:56 pm

  fun to drive, plenty of room

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  2003 Monte - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Snofox710 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I have not had one problem since I bought the car. I was however in a real bad accident with it and it was amazing how well the car handled the impact. Im very impressed with this car.

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  Great Car For Price - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By vince - May 15 - 4:26 am

  I have had my SS for a few months . Mileage is better than I thought it would be, to bad they require 90+ octane so price of fuel makes the gap up from mileage. Inside, I love the space over Mustangs, and performance is better than a 4.6 with an auto. I would only own the Supercharged SS after having this one.

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  This is nearly a perfect car!!!! - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By DBrent - April 26 - 2:00 am

  This car has been outstanding! Ive owned way more cars than any one person should, and it is without doubt one of the best built cars Ive ever owned, second only to my K-Series Pickup. The only problem Ive encountered came at 60,000 miles, a $7 temp sensor went bad. Chevy needs to take a look at the drive train in the recently retired Camaro. This car with that drive train under it would without a doubt be the perfect family car, as it is a little on the heavy side for a V6. The interior is solid, roomy and comfy. When the options are maxed out (leather, sunroof, OnStar, etc.) this truly is a very luxurious car.