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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  My toy - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Anthony Del - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Went into dealer to buy a new pick-up. When I saw the Black Monte Carlo on the floor I just had to have it. I have had it for a month now and am very pleased. Except for the creaking rear window. When it is cold outside and you hit a bump the window creaks. The dealer says the rear windshield was improperly installed at the factory. They did the prescribed maint. but it still creaks. Tomorrow they will try again.

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  2006 Monte Carlo - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Donald D. Starr II - February 25 - 1:30 am

  The vehicle is responsive, solid with no squeaks. It has a very good turning radius. And I feel that it should be listed in the top ten list of cars with high quality. This is my fourth Monte Carlo and the most inproved. And it will run on ethanol or gasoline.

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  WET ROADS - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By wv nurse - February 24 - 10:00 am

  The performance of this vechicle is terrible on wet roads I wrecked mine while doing 45mph. Seats need more padding. Back seats need more leg room.I hate the milage I get 21mpg. This car use to be fun driving, but now I am afraid of it since hydroplaning across 4 lanes of traffic. The exterior is good looking but could use a few improvements. The build of the car is very sturdy after wrecking the only injuries I had was a cut on my finger. As far as reliability, this car has been hard to handle on wet roads since I purchased it. I owned a 2001 SS before the 2002 and never had this problem.

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  Monte Carlo Review - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Yvonne Hawk - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Since purchasing the Monte Carlo, I have enjoyed its smooth ride and high performance. It has power and I love the vehicle handles. I feel in control of the vehicle and the road while I am driving. This model provides more than adequate room inside and trunk space. I especially, like the sleek, dynamic lines of the model. Very impressive design. Hope is provides years of service.

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  Loving my Monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Silver Monte - February 18 - 3:33 pm

  Ive had my Carlo for a few months now. So far Im loving it, no problems with it. Recently got dual exhuast for it with bow tie tips looks nice. I would definetely buy this car again if Chevy brought it back. I would not give this car up for anything else. except for my moms 2008 Malibu LTZ.

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  Second guessing - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By bryan2006 - February 15 - 2:26 pm

  I really liked my car for the first 3000 miles or so but it suddenly became sluggish, I now find myself competing with 4 cylinder engines with a slight tapping sound under the hood while at a stand still. Also a quart of oil has been burned now at 3500 miles. I am really aggravated by how much a car can change over so few miles. Reminds me of that freind that stabbed you in the back. My 2001 Acura was much more potent than this vehicle with less horsepower and displacement and more weight. Please explain this one. Gas mileage also stinks on this new car. I went from a 2004 Chevy Colorado with the 3.5 litre 5cyl to this one. Truly disappointed and thought it would be better!

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  Awesome Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By CandisCarter - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have had my car for a year now. I have never had any problems with it. It is one of those cars that is big enough to fit 5 people (which is good since I am only 19) but has the sporty image that I wanted.

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  Lots of show with a little go - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Ren Jonsin - February 1 - 10:00 am

  I found this car while looking for a Mustang. I probably should have kept looking because the performance, although good for a V6, just isnt what I really was looking for. Its not a bad car at all though, well appointed, plenty of room and quite reliable to date. Looks great from the back and side and since the popularity of coupes is waning, you dont see many of them on the street. The MC handles competently and pulls through corners well, although it certainly wouldnt be at home on an autocross course. If youre looking for a sporty looking car that wont set you back a ton of money with reasonable insurance rates, you couldnt do much better.

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  Tony Stewart SS is a keeper - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Bob Hendrichs - January 21 - 8:00 am

  I bought my Tony Stewart 2005 SS a year and a half ago. I have had several people offer me more than I paid for it. This car is a keeper. If you have one hang on to it. It will be a collectable. What a sweet ride.

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  SS - MOST FUN IN YEARS - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Scott - January 9 - 3:26 am

  It was like a mid-life crisis buy and definitely dont regret it! Absolute blast to drive. Comfortable even for my 63" height. Put on performance exhaust and sounds amazing. DOD actually works.