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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  Great Car - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Brashear - August 14 - 3:00 am

  The only problems we had with this car were with the brake pads, once we had those replaced, we havent had any troubles. Even after the 100k mark, the car still has a lot of power and is a joy to drive. If you are planning on buying a monte carlo, I cant say enough good things about the vehicle. Of course, the car we now own is of an older body style. In 2000 Chevy came out with the newest look, so I cant comment to much about these later models. Enjoy the ride!

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  Love my Monte Carlo. - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By 2001 Monte Carlo - August 3 - 7:03 pm

  Have owned this 2001 Monte Carlo for 6 years. I have had absolutly no problems. Its sporty, yet car seats fit well. Enough power to go without hesitation. There is plenty of room in the trunk. Mine is the "LS" model, I do perfer the looks of the SS better though.

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  Great Car! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Mike Breckle - August 3 - 12:23 am

  I love this car. It could use a little more power but Ill say that about anything. The interior is alright although the center console has a flimsy top. Otherwise this car is definitely fun to drive and definitely looks good!

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  A Kick To Drive - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ajwagner777 - July 29 - 10:20 pm

  I bought my Monte Carlo having never owned a GM product. I must say that I am VERY pleased. The performance is great even though its not an SS, the fuel economy is awesome for the 3.4L V- 6. I had to put a set of spark plugs in it to correct hesitation. Otherwise, very solid car. I put my own after market stereo in, so if youre wanting to do that, be aware that the wiring adapter was $80. Very nice car, i feel very safe and it is a very fun car to drive. hndles very well around corners at high speeds. Would buy again, and again, and again, and again.

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  Problematic Car - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Dissapointed - July 29 - 3:50 am

  Battery was bad at 10,000 miles. Head gasket blown at 45,000 miles (constant low coolant light on = expensive repair). Fuel injectors bad at 25,000 miles (cleaned). Engine mounts replaced at 60,000 miles (very expensive). AC controls bad at 40,000 miles. Electronic module computer bad at 60,000 miles (replaced = very expensive) Mechanic at the dealers said he has seen these problems repeated over and over with this model. Who pays for it? Who did you think? GM? Naahh... I had mechanical breakdown insurance, but had to pay $250.00 for each incident. What I saved with 0% finance, I have spent in repairs that one would never believe to occur in such a new car. No more GM! Enough!

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  2004 Intimidator - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Intimidator04 - July 25 - 2:53 pm

  I have a 2004 Monte Carlo Supercharged SS Intimidator Edition. It is car 2,909 of 4,000. It is a great car and has every available option. Its original price when new was over $33,000. Very nice, comfortable car, and it is sure to be a collector car in years to come. It has plenty of power, but the fuel economy could be better.

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  Perfect Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Shari Marie - July 20 - 10:00 am

  I have an 03 Monte Carlo SS. This is the first sporty car Ive ever owned. I am truly impressed with its power, performance and of course its looks. Ive won every intersection race as the acceration is awesome. I am going to look at the 04 SS Supercharged models soon. Im sure the improved HP and torque has made this baby even better. Kudos to Chevy !!

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  My sweet Monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Kat - July 16 - 8:30 pm

  I love this car! I wish they werent getting rid of it. I get 30 mpg around town! unheard of in such a large car. I love the Monte emblem in the front. Im trying to get my husband to buy me the fin, fog lights and dual exhaust to make it look like an SS. I love this car!

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  had it for 3months wonderful car - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By tweef - July 11 - 8:39 pm

  purchased my 2001 monte carlo ss 3 months ago from a orginal was scared at first car has 204k but after test driving fell in love with only thing i have done to it so far is brakes,oil,radiator flush other then that it been reliable only common problem with them is transmission thank the previous owner had it rebuilt few months before i bought gas is i drive 30miles a day gas is wonderful i put premium in it last me close to 8 days off da full tank this wont be that last monte carlo i own previous car i have owned were chevy astros95,98an till 2003 was lemon sold it bought my mc

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  Problems, problems, problems - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By susie1975_19999 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  The electronics on this car has been a nightmare!Air conditioner, several sensors, dash board assembly, multi function switch, catalytic converter, gas cap have all been replaced! Most all of these items have cost me over 500 every time! Multi function switch, when it goes bad headlights will go out on you going down the road! Of course there are never any re-calls for these problems and every time something else goes wrong dealer ship says those cars are known for this! Ive called GM several times about the car and told them they sold me a piece of junk but they never offer to replace anything! Wish I had never laid eyes on this car. It will be traded off! GM never again !