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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*Stunnin* - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By joby - October 12 - 2:30 pmThis is a great driving car. It has a smooth ride without the noise of the road. It has plenty of room both in the front and the back, not to mention the trunk is huge. Most of my friends are rather big and non of them have trouble fitting. I get an average of 18.5 mpg (city/highway) with a K&N air intake but I dont drive much on the highway. I ran a 14.3 @ 100.7 mph at the track when it was stock which was better then my friends stock mustang gt. I have picked it up to 140 after getting tuned and the bigger breaks helped slow this big car down. It dynoed at 287 whp with 264 pounds of torque. I am really impressed with this car and Im sure anyone else who owns one would agree.
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Moved up from LS to SS - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By J&J - October 12 - 10:00 amWe had the 2000 LS and when it was time to trade in the car (we lease) we decided to jump to the SS just to see if the power was as they claim. It is! We have upgrades of the stero system, love the on the steering wheel controls, side air bag, anit-lock brakes, the traction control was fantastic in our mountain winter condtions - want that again! Have the milage, temperature, etc. readings on this one, fun but not needed. We plan on getting another SS in 2006.
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2003 Monte Carlo - Love it - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By landerson - October 12 - 10:00 amI DRIVE my Monte Carlo. I love my Monte Carlo. I commute daily and I drive in a city during the day. The car rides great, looks awesome. It is sporty but also is like a full size car in comfort. I purchased an LS but plan to trade up to an SS in about a year! Great buy
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Fun to drive, fun to own - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By bb - October 11 - 10:16 pmI usually drive a 93 T-bird to work, but after a while a cant wait to get the Monte out. Very good in all aspects of performance and very nice styling. It turns heads. I havent liked a vehicle I owned this much since my 88 T-bird. This LTZ is fun to drive and a pleasure to own. It seems like a lot of car for the money.
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One Sick Ride! - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Max - October 1 - 12:23 amI bought my SS Supercharged Monte Carlo in March of 2008 as a traveling vehicle. Im in the US Navy and commute once a month at least 500 miles (8hour) drive to and from the desert. And the Monte Carlo is sick! It handles with care and is definitley reliable. Mine has taken me everywhere, literally! The only problem I have had with it is the sensors with the fuel system my gas guage went out on me and stays on full at all times. But its not a big deal really I just keep track of my mileage as I drive cross country! Other than that I love my new whip and plan on keeping it at least 20 years, or until I buy my BMW one day. I strongly recommend this vehicle!
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MONEY WELL SPENT! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By MR.G - September 30 - 2:00 amI NEEDED A THIRD CAR,AS A SPARE AND HELP LOWER FUEL COST FOR IN CITY DRIVING,THAT WAS EASY TO PARK.I DID RESEARCH AND STARTED LOOKING FOR THIS CAR.PAID $13500.WITH 34000 MILES.3.99% INTEREST RATE.IF YOU HAVE THE TIME YOU CAN SAVE THOUSANDS.BUT YOU HAVE TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK.
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no more g.m for me! - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By nomoregm - September 17 - 10:00 ami only have had this pice of cr~p 5 weeks. first -jerky trans [computer problem]. second- trunk wont close. third-just quit running at 40 m.p.h. forth- all kinds of interior rattels.this car is built very cheap and flimzy. sound system stinks.i,m going back to ford fit and finish way above g.m with better quality materials ouality is job 1.
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Great Car - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By lovemymonte - September 17 - 10:00 amI owned a 2000 Mercury Cougar and Ford took it back under the Minnesota Lemon Law. After that whole experince, I wanted to purchase something that would be reliable. My mom has a Monte Carlo and she loves the car, never any problems. I love my car. The white really looks sharp with the black moldings and the red SS detailing. I recommend this car to anyone looking for a great car with performance, great looks and a great reliability record. If you are thinking about purchasing this car, go to JD powers website and compare other vehicles. Thats what made me make my decision. Dont count this vehicle out until you have researched and TEST DRIVE.
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Frayed Wires - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By graciebh - September 7 - 6:52 amWith the exception of this, I did love my Monte Carlo. Wires frayed and broke at 32,000 miles on the shifter causing the shifter to stick in park. Also caused my battery to die. Dealer and complaint to Chevy was answered with average wear and tear, out of warranty. Sorry 32,000 miles going from park, drive and reverse caused wear and tear on wires that are hidden under the console?
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Put to the test Monte - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Kylene King - September 2 - 3:53 amThe 1999 Monte Carlo Z34 was my very first car, and Ive had it for over 3 years. Naturally, as a teenager, Ive put it through a lot. The leather option is nice, but is somewhat "cheap" feeling, not at all like the leather found on newer models. Gas mileage I would have to say is "average." As a high-end V6, it definitely has power. Handling is good, steering seems good to me. The AC and heat is "average."
