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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  Been my best vehicle - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By kars - December 21 - 12:53 am

  Bought this car new and has held up very well with minimal maintainence. Drives well in snow for being 2W drive. Owned 7 years and only thing to brake down was the lightcover in the trunk.(very minor)

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  Finally! - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Rachael Lange - December 20 - 1:33 am

  With it being my sixth vehicle in the last eight years, I can not say enough about it. It is the only one I would actually consider leasing another one of. I am very impressed with its handling capability being a front drive V8, and it also adds practicality (although hardly practical) for an every day driver, with roomy interior for a coupe. The ride is phenomenally solid and quiet. The only thing youre really going to hear is the rumble of that 5.3L, 303 hp engine. Gas mileage is actually better than my 04 Grand Prix GTP (Supercharged V6), by 2.5 miles! The redesigned front end was definitely over due and, gives the 06 Monte Carlo a much more sophisticated yet aggressive appearance.

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  AWSOME - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ripperopen_18 - December 2 - 2:00 am

  since we bought our monte me and the old lady fight over who gets to drive it everyday. we say excellent car and keep making them for as long as you can

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  A good choice car to buy or lease - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Norman - November 14 - 11:10 pm

  I have been leasing a Chevy Monte Carlo for 8 years. I have yet to have had any trouble with the car. The only service I have to do is to change the oil. What better car can there be then this car?

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  My Monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Brian Keagy - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Monte Crlo is a great car. It has the looks, feel and quality. A total package car.

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  Love this car - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By John Walters - November 2 - 6:46 pm

  I thoroughly enjoy my MC SS. Its maroon red and drives like a dream. The gas mileage is right around 30 mpg. Its comfortable and stylish.

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  I love my SS - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jvwallace - November 1 - 10:00 am

  I only have 7000 miles on the car but I love it. It rides so nice and has a lot of power. It is a very comfortable car.

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  love it - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By jkh6148 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  i love this car - the engine and transmission are quiet and smooth - breaking is smooth

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  Its Just Right ! - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By trucksollady - October 21 - 7:50 pm

  I bought my 03 Monte in 05. Had about 25000 on it. Its is still perfect, handles great, great gas mileage, and never a moments problem with it. Almost rides like a Cadillac but also what I really like about it , being 50 years old now & female, is that it still strokes my ego a little without my looking like an old lady that shouldnt be driving a hot car ! Have always gotten compliments on the car. It now has 74000 miles on it and my intention is to keep it for many more years. I think the quality of the car, interior & exterior, motor, etc. is excellent ! I wouldnt hesitate to hop in it & go on a road trip. To my husbands credit, he keeps it maintained for me.

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  01 monte carlo ss - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By bigredss - October 19 - 11:40 pm

  Ive had my car for a yr now. Even though already powerful and comforting stock, Ive made a few upgrades improving fuel economy, power and look. Adding the k&n intake and getting my computer modded not only added loads of hp, but improved my gas mileage by at least 6 mpg. I run 93 octane shells v-power gasoline. Though expensive, the fuel Burns better and is used more efficiently, also keeping my injectors a lot cleaner. Overall Im in love with my car. I have the limited edition (25k) made and get looks and compliments every shop and or store I go. Sounds super sexy with flowmaster exhaust, so highly recommended :)