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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  Love my YELLOW Monte - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Littlebabe74 - April 16 - 10:00 am

  So far I have nothing but good things to say about this car. Its great and lots of fun to drive. The first time I seen a yellow one, I had to have one. But had to wait till my lease expired on my current vehicle, but that day finally came and I now am the proud owner of a YELLOW Monte!!!

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  My Lil Deuce Coupe - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Tadd LaDuke - April 6 - 3:20 am

  Much better than the previous models in design and looks. A bit hard to control on fast take offs off the line. Once going a breeze to handle and control. Love to drive it. Many luxury options, heated leather seats, built in cell, heated mirrors, on-line diplay of tire pressure and remaing oil life.

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  My newest Monte Carlo - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By joecrt - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I turned 100,000 on my 1997 Monte Carlo with no plan to sell. But I learned about the incentives, went out to get a Grand Prix and came home with a Gray Metallic 2004 Monte Carlo. Its an SS where the previous one was an LS - 25% percent more powerful. This car has 4- wheel disk brakes with ABS. I live in Michigan and really noticed the difference on ice and snow as my previous car (which I loved) had rear drum brakes. The stereo is awesome. Im thrilled with the car, my last one made it to 92,000 without repairs and then needed a right front ball joint. Anyone from Michigan knows about the condition of our roads in the winter.

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  Love my Monte SS - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By LuvMy66GTO - April 3 - 2:00 am

  For the money, the looks and performance of this vehicle are great. This is undoubltedly the nicest car that I have ever owned. It has all the toys including the heated seats, onstar, and auto start function. While its not as powerful as the turbo its also not as pricey either. I fell in love with the look of the car, classy yet sporty. My all time love is my 66 GTO but its not a practical daily driver. This car has it all!!!!

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  Awesome - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By LAURA - March 30 - 12:53 pm

  I have owned my Monte for 2 weeks. I love it, love it, love it. Where are the handling problems I have read about? It handles like a dream. No abs is fine with me, I want the control. As far as hydroplaning, not once have I experienced that. This car is peppy, and I finally found a car that agrees with me and my pickiness.

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  this car is a piece... - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ihatemyZ34 - March 29 - 10:00 am

  this car is an unbelieveable piece of crap, which is unlikey for GM... i take care of the car as if it were my child and it still betrays me... alternator shot three times, air pump twice, location on both is moronic (under engine and behind front right wheel well)... get about 20 MPG...

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  2nd Good Monte Carlo, Time to get the 3d - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Bryan - March 28 - 2:06 am

  I bought my LS almost 3 years ago and it has performed well. Good performance, Very dependable, and fun to drive. The only major repair I had was to replace a wheel after striking a curb I didnt see, so thats not the fault of the car. In fact Im getting ready to trade it for a 2007 because I liked it so much.

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  Very cheap interior - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By nick - March 28 - 2:06 am

  I looked at a Monte Carlo because it seemed a lot like a Thunderbird which they dont make anymore. But it is anything but. The main problem I have with this car is the cheap interior. The door panels and dash make a lot of noise when going over bumps. Also the car has a lot of road noise. This car is junk. Stay away!

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  cant get enough! - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By scarlett - March 24 - 10:00 am

  This is my 3rd Monte Carlo, and I wouldnt buy any other car for the price and style! It is fast, fun and so comfortable. I am a Nascar fan and I enjoy being part of the Chevrolet team! Fabulous automobile! Go get one!

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  2003 Monte Carlo - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Bobcat - March 15 - 2:00 am

  The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is very nice. From its sporty body style to its interior. Its 16 inch wheel base makes this car handle very well. This car has some excellent safety features. It gets very good gas mileage.