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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  My first new car - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Linda - November 14 - 8:16 pm

  This is my first new car purchased solely by myself. I got what I wanted a new Monte Carlo. I fell in love with the style. As a fairly new NASCAR fan I just had to have this car. It looks like no other car out there in a world of cars that all look pretty much the same. My passengers have told me the ride is very smooth and I agree. All the new technology is a bit overwelming and takes alot of learning. I think I will enjoy this car and always learning more about it.

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  Best Car I have Ever Owned - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By LOVE MY MONTE - November 13 - 6:20 am

  I purchased this vechile in Oct 05 and I am loving it. It was a one owner vehicle and had 150,000 miles on it. It has 165,000 now and looks and runs like new. No rattles, doesnt burn any oil, drives like a new one. I would recomend this car to anyone. I contacted the original owner and he said he had no problems in the time he owned it other than a traction control malfunction that was fixed by the dealership under waranty. I drive it everyday and would reccomend this car to everyone.

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  Awesome car!! - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By R&KS - November 12 - 2:00 am

  This is our 3rd Monte carlo. The first was an 86 LS, the second was a 2002 LS. We got addicted and just bought the 2004 SS, loaded. This is a fun car to drive. The SS package is just the best. It handles well in all weather and hugs corners better than any car we have driven.

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  A great car at a great price. - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By BigCL - November 10 - 9:50 am

  Ive had my 2005 Monte Carlo for about 9 months now. So far its been a great car. There arent too many coupes that seat a person over 6ft very well. The Monte Carlo has plenty of headroom and leg room and. Power from the 3.4L is decent. Capable of passing on the highway without a struggle. The interior is quiet, with very little engine noise(in fact sometimes its hard to tell weather or not the car started when you turn the ignition), and I have yet to hear any wind noise even at highway speed. I would reccomend this vechilce to anyone looking for a 2dr coupe at an affordable price.

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  Comfortable, fuel efficient and luxury - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By clsharky - October 30 - 6:12 pm

  Probably one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. I bought this car with 154k kms 6 years ago and it currently has 326k kms with no engine issues at all. Aside from regular maintenance, the most expensive repair was the fuel pump replacement @ $600. However, installing it was a snap thanks to the access panel above the pump in the trunk. This car works excellent and has loads of power. The fuel economy is exceptional, thanks to its high aerodynamic rating. It barely revs above 2000 RPM at 110km/h hwy speeds, netting 36-37 MPG consistently. The styling is also very nice, and I am constantly getting positive remarks on its looks. The interior is also roomy and comfortable.

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  Great Coupe! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Dr. Rudy Turnbough - October 26 - 1:03 am

  This is my third Monte Carlo, and I find it better than the first two! The car is fun to drive and handles great on the snowy roads we get up north. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone that appreciates a great American personal coupe, and yes I would buy another one.

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  Exception to The Rule? - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Monte Carlo Z-34 - October 23 - 1:10 am

  Overall a good purchase but expensive to maintain. Comfortable driver compartment but tight for rear passengers. A joy to drive and, contrary to others experience, Ive enjoyed good fuel economy, e.g., 28 mph highway and 21 in city. Black exterior/interior and styling (with rear spoiler)is catching and appealing. Just turned 336,000 miles - yes, thats over a third of a million. Have, other than continuous service, replaced the timing belt at 300,000 miles and transmission at 320,000. Have serviced car at dealership over 50 times in the 8 yrs of ownership. Expect to sell for $3,000 in spring of 2006.

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  2003 Monte Carlo - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By DawnA - October 22 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven Pontiacs for the past 7 years and was planning to purchase another one until I test drove a 2003 Monte Carlo. I loved the get up and go it had and just had to buy it. The sleak body and style blew me away. I am also impressed that it gets just as good gas mileage as the pontiac did.

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  Great all around car - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By nutsovernascar - October 18 - 10:26 am

  I leased this car almost 2 1/2 years ago and I am sorry the lease is almost up.The car runs and handles great.The fuel milage is incredible(30 highway and 24 local driving).That is at regular driving conditions not babying the car.I am very upset that Chevy will not be producing the Monte Carlo in 2008.

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  Nightmare on wheels - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By burkholz71 - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my vehicle out of need in 2000. Great deal for a car with 52000 miles, since then 3 alternators (600$) at dealership. oxygen senceors (650$), anti-lock brake light comes on when its wet outside giving false reading to alternator, dealership cant seem to locate problem? Paint is Dk green flaking around doors. Also experiencing problems with windows not wanting to roll up all the way. It always seems to amaze me that even the trained monkeys at the dealerships cant seem to find out what the problem is, but are sure they fixed it ......