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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Its pretty cool. - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Mr. Dave - December 5 - 10:00 amI went to look at one of these while scoping out a new family car. The interior is huge, theres only three of us and we all fit fine. Its comfy. My car has every option, minus the heated seats. I like it. Gas mileage is fabulous, I have a 64 mile commute and I get 27 without even trying. Handling is good for a large car - lets face it - this is not a small car, naturally it is not going to handle like sports car. But, it goes where I point it and it stops well too. If you still want more remeber nobody said you cant add bigger rubber or modify the suspension!
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Love the Z34 - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Z34 Lover - December 5 - 10:00 amIve had this car just over 2 years. Ive put over 60,000 miles on it since I bought it (about to rollover 100K). It is very comfortable, powerful, stylish, and fun. Considering the mileage Ive racked up on it, my Z34 still looks and feels like she came off the showroom floor. However,problem I have had include: a faulty brake switch (a cheap fix) which led to the malfunction of a solenoid in the transmission (an $800+ repair--OUCH!!). Other than that, VERY pleased with this car. If you have one or are considering one, have a mechanic plug in to the Onboard Diagnostic system to check the brake switch (and for any other problems).
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My Monte Carlo - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By ady - December 1 - 2:00 amI bought my Monte Carlo in November 2003. So far the car has performed beautifully.It rides very smooth, the pick up is great and the fuel milage I get is about 28 on the highway and 24 in the city. The interior has a little to be desired the leather is not soft it looks like vinyl, the seats are not as comfortable as I would like them to be but then I was used to driving a Eldorado. But to compare the two I think other than the interior the syle and drive of the two vehicles are about the same except for about $25000.00 cheaper. I would recommend the Monte Carlo anytime.
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Real Story - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Butch N - December 1 - 2:00 amVary fun car to drive. Handles well, plenty of front seat room. Back seat difficult to get into. Looks really good but on mine any how the paint is too soft. Scratches vary easily even when washing. Power is more then sufficient. Great acceleration but tire spin is a problem even with the ESR.
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Black is Beautiful - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By pappap1 - November 30 - 10:00 amI searched all over for this color and equipment. All black with every option except heated seats(Florida). The car is a real head turner and runs great but a super-charger would enhance the performance like my wifes Regal GS. The only drawback is the padding of the seats. My 57 year old posterior needs more cushion on the long haul so I bring my own home made one for the longer drive.
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Cappuccino Frost - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By jem7149 - November 23 - 2:00 amNice car and nice ride for 2003. Can tell the room in back is for short people, but hey, just me and my girlfriend so well kick back and enjoy the sunroof! Performance and handling are tight and smooth.
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A real eye catcher! - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By imintune777 - November 20 - 10:30 pmThe Supercharged SS Monte Carlo is a great car to drive. Acceleration and handling in rush hour traffic is a plus. This automobile will respond and handle well when other drivers have their heads where the sun dont shine. These cars do not even start smiling until they are doing about 75 miles per hour. Great gas mileage and plenty of zip. A real eye catcher also. This is our second Monte Carlo SS. We also have the 2002 model and have enjoyed both. The Supercharged SS is my baby, however!
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Monte Carlo Pace Car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Tazmanian_She-Devil - November 17 - 2:00 amI love my Monte Carlo Pace Car!! When I first saw it on the lot, I knew I had to have it, needless to say the next day I went back to the dealership and bought it. The car is so much fun to drive, so comfortable, so well designed, and catches so much attention. I originally had been looking at Superior Blue Monte Carlos, but once I saw this one there was no doubt that this was the car for me, and I was right! The graphics and ground effects on this car make it one of a kind! I would have to say that this is the most wonderful car ever, but I guess maybe I am partial!!
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A lot better than past years! - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Day - November 10 - 9:50 pmIve had a 2002 Monte and after I had a lot of stuff go wrong with it, I looked into getting a new car. I narrowed my choices to 3 cars. Mustang, Monte and Charger. Mustang way too small. Charger has more power. But only 2/10 of a sec quicker. Plus doesnt have some of the features that I like. The Monte has everything but a DVD nav system. Cell phone, on star, DOD (charger doesnt let you know when its active or not.) Remote start. I think alot of people need to rethink the GMs lineup. There cars have power not stuck at 200 HP like in the past. This car all around better then 2000-2005 Monte year. MPG for me is around 15.8. Sorry people, you have to pay for power.
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Cheap interior, poor design - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By B Kohlhase - November 10 - 5:46 amI purchased my SS new. Transmission going now at 85k. Headliner fell behind sunroof, dealer never could fix from day one. Electrical under seat poor design. Moving seat has pulled wires. Pulled seat heater, seatbelt light flashing. Electrical is poor. Signals quit working and can hear buzzer at times. Good driving machine though and still get compliments on the car at almost 7 years old.
