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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  Poorly Built Car - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Jarod Hart - November 26 - 2:00 pm

  When I first bought the car I loved it. Drove/handled well, smooth ride, etc. Even liked the power (although I now feel like it is a little on the weak side). That has quickly gone downhill since. This past year alone I have invested $2500-$3000 in repairs. Since purchase with 29,000 miles I have had to rebuild the trans (at 54K), replace a high pressure line for the a/c, replace struts and bearing plates, replace temp. sending unit, resolder rear defrost, rebuild brakes all around (including calipers), replace tie rod ends, thermostat, theres a short in the headlights causing my daytime lihts not to function properly and my highbeam indicator to continuously flicker.

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  Beautiful - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Shanta - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Im very satisfied with my purchase. It rides smooths. I just need to replace it with a cd player. Overall the car looks great.

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  My Review - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Jessica Ann - November 14 - 10:00 am

  Well I rode in my uncles car twice and I luved it. I am going to buy one next year. They are comfortable, styly, and afordable. I think every one should get one. Jessica

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  monte carlo supercharged ss - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By joe - November 14 - 10:00 am

  its a good looking car and it is fun to drive. it holds up well and although it is a big car with the supercharged ss it gives you alot of power to manuver through traffic and its faarely wide body does not allow alot of body roll. all-in-all its a great car to drive.

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  Theres Never Anything Wrong - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By PDQ - November 1 - 11:20 am

  This car has been the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. It is very fast, in fact, a little more power than the front drive system can keep a hold of. In the winter, I drive around the other fast cars stuck in the snow because of the front drive. Its a trade off that works. Big trunk, comfortable interior that is solid after 28,000 miles. Fuel mileage has been the only disappointment. Sticker suggested 18/28 I get 15.5/23.

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  Disappointed from Cleveland - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By melissa/cleveland - October 30 - 3:30 pm

  What a disappointment! Cant believe I had to replace the steering shaft twice at 700 miles and again at 7800. What was my dream car became my nightmare! Gas mileage is terrible and the stereo reception and speakers are just as bad.

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  GOOD BUT NOT GREAT - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By MR.G - October 23 - 12:53 am

  Bought car used with 34000 miles.First thing i did was,replace front rotors and brake pads,second thing i did was flush the GM antifreeze from engine and went back with regular green anti freeze.I did this because the GM antifreeze will damage the cooling parts in engine and has a gum building inside cooling system.The third thing I did was replace the turn signal device on the steering column.The original broke one night and I could not dim my headlights.Cost was over $500.00.

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  Still Awesome after 3+ Years - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Westsuburban - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Great car from day one. It has never been back to the dealer! Its a 2000 with 53,000 miles.

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  Perfect practical American car - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By renbutler - October 8 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car for those interested in something practical, economical, and safe. Ive had one small problem--the center console lids hinge snapped--in the nearly four years Ive owned it (knock on wood!). Sure, its not the most stylish car on the road, but theres something attractive about how everything is rounded; its not boxy like a lot of other similar cars. Its sturdy, comfortable, and ergonomic.

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  Road Noise - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By xavier - October 8 - 10:00 am

  Lot of road noise and tire noise.Handles nice