Chevrolet Monte Carlo Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.49/5 Average
751 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 461 through 470 of 751.00
  • 2006 2LT Monte Carlo - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    I am very disappointed with my 2006 Monte Carlo purchase. The car is very uncomfortable, and the interior is very plain. My previous car was a 1998 Monte Carlo, and the interior in that model is much more elegant, and the seats were comfortable, unlike the 2006 model. I would never buy another Monte Carlo again, or a Chevy. There is much more I do not like about the car, but itÂ’s too much to type.

  • Excellent Car! - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    I love this car. It rides like a dream and has very quick acceleration.

  • 5.0 Litre Eater - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    This is my second Monte Carlo. My first was a 1999 Z-34 with a Series II 3800 engine. At the time it was a very quick car, but increasing the horsepower by over 100 was quite a change to say the least. The torque off the line is startling, but when you learn to control it (or upgrade your tires), a new 5.0 Litre Mustang has a scrap on his hands. Pairing two drivers of similar skill, it can go either way. I love getting a red light next to a teenager in his/her sports car. I live in calgary so that usually means a Beamer, an Audi, or a Mustang. On dry pavement, enjoy my exhaust. Also, Challengers and Chargers should take notice pretty quickly.

  • 2004 Dale Jr. Monte Carlo SS - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    I have little to no problem with my Dale Jr. Monte Carlo SS for the last 2 1/2 years.

  • Phew... just rolled over 275,000 original miles! - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    This car has been amazing. Definitely recommend it to any new avid car collector. The engine reliability and longevity is well worth every penny. I do not reccomend this car if you have a car seat for baby/child as its very cumbersome to retract the front seat to settle in the kids.

  • incredible car bargain - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    This car is everything you could ask for. The styling is the best since the 60s and the performance is unbelievable. It has all the acceleration you could want and will get 32 mpg on the highway using Amoco Super Premium Gas(45 miles to the tank more than it will get on ANY OTHER SUPER PREMIUM GAS)

  • Love It - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    Immediately drove 3000 miles & enjoyed the vehicle. Especially the AM Radio.

  • Monte Carlo SS - 2001 - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    This car has been underrated on fuel economy and performance. We have averaged 29 MPG (not just highway) since owning it. It is a beautiful car and had good pick up considering it is a V6. The original tires we had were noisy, and since changing them at 60,000 miles to a style with that in mind, this one drawback has been greatly improved.

  • My first car, worst car. - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    I bought this car myself with the money I had made from my first job. This wasnt even three years ago and I have probably paid for it twice in repairs. New timing chain. New spark plugs -twice. New spark wires- twice. New Catalytic Converter. Cleaned Muffler. New turn signal switch. Ect. This car has been nothing but heartache. I loved it to death at first, but its sucking me dry. Still trying to sell it.... Would not recommend.

  • GREAT CAR!! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
    By -

    bought a dark blue 02 monte SS in august. The car is great. I was never a fan of chevy interior, but this time they got it right. The interior is perfect. The drivetrain is great, both gas mileage and power are up there. Also, the car does very well in the snow (traction control). It is built well, the doors are thick (unlike the tin doors on the imports) and it is very save (5 star crash rating)

Chevrolet Monte Carlo Reviews By Year:
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