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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  Excellence = Monte Carlo Supercharger - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Supercharged Lady - July 21 - 2:00 am

  A striking car that get 2nd glances and positive comments from both sexes and all ages. Reasons for choosing this car ... I was drawn to the gorgeously designed 2004 Supercharger engine and body, no other car in its class had as many useful features or as much style. No other make of car this size offered the design features this car has ... absolutely beautiful.

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  satisfied - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By robert henry - July 20 - 10:00 am

  very able auto. alot of features and safety for the money. rich look to the body

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  2004 Monte Carlo Pace Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By novaracer63 - July 16 - 5:01 pm

  Just bought my 2004 LS that was the original pace car at the NASCAR Races in 04. She had 54, 000 original miles on her.......Took a long trip over Christmas and averaged 34 miles to the gallon....very impressed. Having front wheel drive was also a plus since I did sell my Suburban for this car. Locally owned and that person purchased directly from the woman that owned it right off the Chevy Lot. (Did notice there is some kind of noise in either the steering column or in the left front end...any ideas what it could be....all the maintainence has been done prior to my ownership of the car.)

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  Monte Supercharged - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Leaddog - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I have purchased a Monte Carlo SS Supercharged with everything possible on it. Its a great car and I love it so much I wont even let the wifey drive it! Fast, solid, and drives like a dream.

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  really like this 2004 monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By cooldoc - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Had a 2001 monte SS, and moved up to the 2004 supercharger. This is an excellent long term vehicle. It has all the options, and comforts. Beautiful lines, and excellent handling. A perfect car to hand down to my son, in 5 yrs, for his first car.

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  Monte Carlo #1 in my Book - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By stpman - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Purchased our 2003 Monte Carlo LS in Oct 03. We drive it as our pleasure vehicle and does not get driven much on the year, but when we take out on Sundays for joy rides especially with our added Road Warior Feathered Graphic Kit on the sides we definetly get heads to look when we go by. The Monte Carlo is built very sturdy and we plan on keeping it a very long time. Rick stpman

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  Decent - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Wade - July 6 - 2:40 am

  I love driving this thing! However I have had major issues, alternator went once and nearly killed me the way it went off. I have also replaced the controls arms for three wheels. It gets really good mileage on the HW (nearly 30 most of the time) and around 18 for daily around the town use. Ive also had issues with the brakes but nothing major. Good car for the price and after reading other reviews my experience seems to be an outlier. I love driving it though and I would be another if it came along.

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  2005 Monte Carlo LT - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By keaporsch1 - July 5 - 7:13 am

  I have extremely enjoyed my Monte Carlo. It is powerful, reliable, durable, and stylish. It handles awesome in snow and ice. So far, the most expensive repair has been a replacement instrument cluster. Ive had nothing but good times with my Monte. I plan on keeping it forever.

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  Great car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By gregp - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I love this vehicle

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  Good Overall - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ShafinKS - July 1 - 4:30 am

  Gas mileage great for its size. Road noise is terrible.