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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Monte Caro SS - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By powerb115 - August 28 - 10:00 amBest car I have ever owned ABSOUTLEY NO PROBLEMS
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needs more power - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By pete333 - August 28 - 10:00 amMy experience with this car has been great. The only exception being that you simply cannot find any performance enhancing parts for this car. However, the nascar enthusiest may be dissapointed. If you are looking for a great everyday ride and are not into the "performance thing" this is the car. It has exceptional handling, a killer body, is good on gas, and is comfortable (front and back seat if you know what I mean). One last thing; I recommend the XM radio and, the supercharger; it was a good start towards performance but in my opinon still not enough for a car that looks like its doing 100 Mph. while parked.
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First Time Owner - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By MBlack17 - August 27 - 2:00 amI recently purchased a 2004 Monte Carlo due to having bad luck with a Toyota (2 new engines and 1 transmission). I was very pleased first off with how GM was able to get me out of my lease, which still had 2 years on it, and with minor penalties. I have loved this car since I got it. It has a wonderful, smooth ride, and nice acceleration. The gas mileage isnt bad, but I am used to a 4- cylinder. I was also very pleased with the way it handles on snow, I felt so secure and safe. I would recommend this car to anyone, it is over all a great car for anyone single to a midsized family.
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Nothing but bad news - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Nannygoat - August 26 - 10:00 amIt has been nothing but problems: alternator, spark plug wires (twice), spark plugs, power windows (twice), power door locks, drivers reclining mechanism, door padding, center console, power steering, transmission. I have sunk about $5-6K into this car in the 4.5 years of ownership. Only 67K miles. Dont bother seeking a refuge with GM "customer service" either. They just tell you to get lost.
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Why did they kill this car--again? - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By John - August 25 - 11:43 amI never thought I would enjoy (nay, love) driving a front drive V6, but holy crap! This car will put your backside in the seat and keep it there then stop on a dime and give you a nickel change. The handling is very stable and pretty responsive. Im 65 and fit extremely well in this car once the triple adjustable seat was set. The exterior is as aggressive as the performance; people tend to stare when I go by. When I took the car on the highway, 90 was as comfortable as 40. This is truly a sharp car. Makes me wonder why in the world GM would discontinue such a great automobile.
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Awesome ride - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By cocod08 - August 21 - 10:00 amI love my Monte SS I think it was a great buy though I do wish I had held out a little longer and got the supercharged edition. tough the 3.8liter v-6 does travel if you know what i mean.
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car kicks . . . - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By MAtthew - August 13 - 2:00 ami bought this car a short will ago it has been great havent had to do anything to it exept for some new rims because the caps r ugly but other than that it has made it from colorado to massachusetts and california without any problems exept for gas!!
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Love My Car - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Lynniepooh - August 13 - 2:00 amI love my car. When I was looking and I was looking for a car I wanted a safe, goodlooking car. A lot of the safe cars are old people looking. The Monte Carlo is for all ages. I was so picky on finding a car. It took me 3 years to find the one I like.
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One Great Monte! - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Al Larson - August 1 - 5:53 pmWhen they changed the body style in 2000, the first time I saw it I fell in love, and it has been a love affair ever since. I just knew I had to get one. I LOVE IT!! The best looking, sleekest looking car on the highway.
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I love this car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Rickey - July 21 - 2:00 amThis car has all the features I wanted and some I didnt know I needed until I used them. Like heated seats, what a great option! The stereo controls on the stearing wheel and ON STAR are great features and add to the safety factor. But best of all I think this car looks great, drives like a dream and trouble free.
