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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love the car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By jab12345 - August 13 - 10:00 amthis is one of the very best cars i have ever owned. i cant think of anything i dont like about it!
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Best Car on the Road - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Chris Rinard - August 13 - 5:06 amI dont know how many times at the pump or on the road somebody had flagged me down and said good car. This car is fast and handles well. For a two door is quite spacious. The car has a lot of neat features including remote start, DOD, and OnStar. Mustangs cant really keep up with it. I got the SS model with a few less options like sun roof and leather which made my car a couple grand cheaper and more affordable
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Chevy Rides Again - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By John - July 17 - 11:10 pmThis car is first GM product I have purchased since early 70s and its deffinetly a winner for both performance and reliability. Car is also excellent in fuel economy
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Love my Monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By chevy girl - July 17 - 10:36 amId never been in a Monte Carlo until I test drove mine. It was love as soon as I sat in the drivers seat. Way comfortable, love how it handles. But it seems like its lost power and isnt fast enough for me anymore. It didnt hold its value as well as i was hoping it would have too but its one hell of a solid car!
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The Only Chevy for Me - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By BadBoy911 - July 15 - 10:00 amThis was the only 2Dr that would fit me, im a 63 big guy and they mention the Caviler, first off it sux, second i said "look at me" then they showed me the Monte, I used to have a monte but that was a 1980, and it never left me on the side of the road for any thing mechanical and it was at 98,000 miles and still ran strong!, so i said what the hell, now i love this car, its a sport/muscle car for the big boyz.
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Best car I ever owned - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By honestabe48 - July 11 - 7:15 pmIve had this car going on 15 years now, bought it when it was brand new in 1996. It has 119,000+ miles on it now and still runs like a champ. Ive done minor maintanance on it that I think one should do on every car at 7-10years old. It has a new Alternator, starter, fuel pump, radiator hoses, thermostat and tires (factory tires lasted 10 years). The air conditioner did go out at about the 10 year mark so that is the only real MAJOR repair I have to do. Of course the usual thing with power windows happened and I had to replace the motor in the drivers side TWICE! I think general maintanance is key to survival of every car. I keep the oild changed twice a year.
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Nice Car - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Jack - July 2 - 8:40 amThis car was and still is my first car. It is extremely reliable and gets great gas mileage, especially for its age. The interior has a great feel to it and is very comfortable. It is a good looking car especially with added touches. Handles nicely but is nothing close to s ports car. Great first car as it was meant to keep me and my lead foot out of trouble. Steering wheel radio controls nice although it needs a CD player. Only problem is the car seems sluggish of the line and especially up hills, however compared to all the good that is no major problem.
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2006 Monte Carlo SS - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By CHRIS KLEIN - June 28 - 3:03 amBefore I bought the car I was considering the Ford Mustang. I am a tall person and the Monte Carlo fit my bill better plus the front wheel drive is better than the rear wheel drive on the Mustang. So far Ive driven the car 700 miles and have been averaging 20.7 to 21 miles per gallon overall. Not bad for a v8. I also like the comfort of the leather seats with the lumbar support. If you have back problems itÂ’s great. The stereo system is excellent, also the remote start is awesome too. Overall Im very happy I bought the Monte Carlo instead.
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2000 Chevy Monte Carlo LS - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By montewithproblems - June 27 - 8:36 amI bought my Monte Carlo used with 98000 miles. Granted it wasnt new, since I have owned it I have had many problems. Heater blower motor and resistor went, ball joint, thermostat, transmission is starting to hestitate, power mirrors only work when they want to, and now the car is leaking antifreeze. I was told by my mechanic that the head gasket is going. I have only put 10000 miles on it. I would worn others to be cautious buying a used one with higher miles. The seats are uncomfortable. The car does look great though and does turn heads. Just wish it was more reliable. This is probably my last Chevy!
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Not enough credit - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Cool - June 25 - 10:00 amI love my new Monte. I dont think credit due has been given, this car is in a catagory with mercedes and bentley. Some people live on a budget.