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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  Last of the Big Two-Doors - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Wheelz51 - June 23 - 10:00 am

  Have had this car since Aug 01 & love it. It has 145,000 miles & seems to be running strong. Have replaced the alternator twice as well as the fuel pump. Havent had the gasket prob (yet) as others have described. I love the split bench seat and column shift & wish GM would bring that back. I use a wheelchair & the 2-door makes it much easier to load my ride. Curious as to why the 98 gets 30 mpg & 99 drops to 20! Well keep this car til it dies, hope to get another 100K. Because of needing a large 2-door, my next ride will probably be the Toyota Solara.

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  Better than Expected - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By BMan - June 17 - 2:00 am

  I am quite surprised, for the amount I spent (~$24,000, includes 2002 cash back, fees, taxes, & tags) for my Black SS with every option except the High Sport Appearance Pkg. Car handles better, rides better, performs better than I hoped for, except for the gas mileage. I had the widows tinted to cut down on the interior heat after "she" has sat in the sun. The ABS works so well I am often worried about the vehicle behind me stopping in time! If you want a two-door coupe, you really need to consider this vehicle. I expect this car to go the distance (10+ years) with minimal problems, and No I Do Not work for Chevrolet or their affiliates/dealers/allies!!!!

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  nasty - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By c mundie - June 17 - 2:00 am

  nothing but problems

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  Ehhhh - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By 20yearoldcollegeboy - June 13 - 7:20 am

  Since owning this car I have had very mixed feelings on it. Bought when I was 16. It gets me around. A great car if you have the money to fix problems which there are a lot! And each problem cost a small fortune to fix. The car handles well, has a nice ride, people always think its newer than it is (body just started showing small rust in two spots),body holds up well (hit three deer at once, insurance fixed, MPG are decent if you baby the throttle (28 hwy)but can dip as low as 14 in city. Engine seems to be stronger at some times than others, can be fast and very stable, quiet at 75-80 hwy. One cupholder for 5 seats? 1-2 downshift is slow! Occassional trouble starting. Its a 12 yr old car

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  1996 Monte Carlo - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Bamoeller - May 30 - 2:00 am

  Its comfort is good and extras are excellent. The adjustable leather seat conforms nice. and i have had no complaints from passengers (front or rear) The radio is fun to play with especially on the steering wheel. It overall has a sporty look and is fun to cruise the streets in.

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  New 2006 Monte Carlo - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Janice - May 28 - 8:20 pm

  This is my third Monte Carlo, the last being a 2003 SS but I did not want a V- 8 nor rear wheel drive as I like the front wheel. New front end looks very sleek. Personally I find the new bucket seats to be a bit too hard and the interior seems more narrow than the 2000 and 2003 Montes I owned. Only have a couple of hundred miles on this one but if the car holds up like the last two Ill be pleased. Low the traction control! Had that on the 2003 SS.

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  Unhappy with Cheverolet company - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Billie Jo Shifflett - May 27 - 3:40 am

  I purchased this car new. The first week of ownership I received a recall notice for the intake bolts due to them running hot. At 23000 miles I started having brake and rotor problems. Noticed a noise and took to the dealer and was told the steering shaft needed replacing. This seems to be a problem with these cars according to consumer reports magazine. Also with the brakes, rotors, and calipers. At 27000 miles I had all the rotors replaced. GM did nothing to help me with the latest problem of the steering shaft due to the car being out of warranty and being a 2002. I reminded them that this car has only 28000 miles on it and they need to correct their faulty parts by having a recall.

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  Ford Cant Beat it - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By KEN JOCHUM - May 21 - 11:36 pm

  I would love to have one with a V8 but at age 63 a V6 goes fast enough. The gas mileage is great. I average 27.2mpg a tank driving at 60-73mph with some city driving included. It has remarkable correction on the road. This car will not go on the block for sale anytime soon.

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  Great Daily Driver - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By GsMonteCarlo1 - May 13 - 12:50 am

  I had a 1995 Monte Carlo prior to this 2002. Chevy improved the Monte Carlo greatly from 95 model to the 2000+ models. There is more room, better stereo, and bigger trunk. The styling is a lot better as well. The only thing that Chevy messed up was the integrated computer system into the radio. This creates problem with aftermarket stereos and remote starters.

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  monte lover - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By magg144 - May 7 - 2:00 am

  this is my 3rd monte, i traded in a 99 with no problems and the 02 has been trouble free also! fun to drive and sporty, i love these cars!