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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  Nice Car - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By J Dancik - June 11 - 2:20 am

  Very good, reliable car. People still look at it, as it is a very good looking auto.

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  Clean Lines - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By powertrainUAW - June 7 - 4:43 pm

  One of the most solid cars I have driven. Could have done without the XM radio. CDs sound great, 6 disk is the ticket. Added chrome exhaust tips from dealer, which finishes the back end nicely.

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  Monte - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By RJOU1 - May 16 - 8:40 am

  I purchased a Monte Carlo When GM offered 0,0. What a deal. The car has been good so far. Not exceptional, but good. The only complaint I really have, is that it needs more power(should have gotten the SS). The interior is roomy and practical. I got a fair amount of equipment, including On-Star, which I think is great. Do I think this is the best car out there? no, but for the money, and the fact that its an American car make it a great choice.

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  SS Rules - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Rabos4672 - May 9 - 2:00 am

  This is the first SS I have purchased since 1988. I love the new style and lucked out on getting a new Jeff Gordon edition even though the 04,s were out. I previously had a pontiac Grand Prix GT, which I enjoyed, but they no longer make in a 2 door, so I returned to Chevy

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  Supercharged a big PLUS - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Snocmpr - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Smooth ride except on bumpy roads due to suspension package, Supercharged version much better than either regular SS version. (Have owned both) Great seats & comfort and plush with all the toys. Only negative so far is the sound of the engine, very tinny like a Honda or Toyota. Need to get sound up to go with 240 HP.

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  Great to drive - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By CharlesBarton - May 7 - 10:00 am

  Owned since the end of Jan. and have loved every minute of it. Turns alot heads and lots of great compliments.The silver color is perfect out here in Arizona and gets great milage both in town driving and out on the road. It was better driver than the Grand Prix but would have loved to get more power under the hood. And the sound system needs no upgrades.

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  My Monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By RedM0nte - May 4 - 11:13 am

  I purchased my Monte Carlo LS earlier this year. So far nothing has happened with the car, Ive had only small problems. For one, the car has some rattles on the inside of the car, and the interior wasnt put together all that well. Im a mechanical engineer for interiors of cars and the craftsmanship on the inside wasnt that great. But, the Monte is a very stylish car and runs and performs great for the LS model.

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  love my first month! - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By steven menard - April 30 - 9:43 am

  Ive been driving my ltz for a month now and Im really enjoying driving this car. The car only has 60.000 km so no problems yet!. Ive always had gm cars and Im a gm lover! The car handles great, fuel economy Im impressed. This car has a 3.9 engine so if you have a heavy foot well its normal that the car will cost you !. But at normal driving condition you will be impressed!. The downside of this car is the sound system I own a g5 2007 the 2 cars has the same sound system, I expected more from the ltz! This car performs at its best when you want to pass a car. The acceleration is at its best after 35 km. For those people that do not like a gm product you should try this car !

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  Love my Monte - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By nascar88 - April 28 - 8:36 am

  This car is great. I love driving it all the time and really enjoy the style and looks of this car. Its still a attention getter. I dont understand why they stopped making it. I am so glad to get the last of them for 2007. Please GM bring this car back. See ya at the dream cruise in 2032 what a classic it will be. Love my Chevy

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  Satisfied - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By 06Monte - April 25 - 11:13 am

  I purchased my Monte new while I worked at the dealership. The first 50,000 miles had very few problems with it. The only really thing was that I blew a power steering line and the junk tire pressure sensors. I had the keyless entry system (which reads the tire pressure sensors) replaced twice. And numerous amounts of sensors replaced before it fixed itself. After 50,000 the GMPP warranty paid for itself. Had control arms, wheel bearings, and tie rods replaced all at once. Had oil rings in the engine seize and had 8 new pistons and rings installed. Trust me I take care of this car! Nothing but 92+ octane and synthetic oil every 5,000 miles. All maintanence performed regularly.