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:
Showing 561 through 570 of 751.00-
My second Monte Carlo - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By eddiep - August 17 - 3:53 amMy first Monte Carlo was a 1977, now my 05. Both designs I like, and I like the CD player over the 8-track! Also I like the front wheel drive, better traction than back in 77.
-
My Monte Carlo - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By nana of 3 - August 12 - 2:00 amI always loved the new Monte Carlo since they came out and was determined to have one so I got one
-
Love it except... - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Joan - August 5 - 10:00 amMy car is wonderful, but... it has this nasty problem of quitting sometimes. No one can figure it out. Have changed a lot of parts, no help. HELP!!!
-
Love it except... - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By joan - August 5 - 10:00 amMy car is wonderful, but... it has this nasty problem of quitting sometimes. No one can figure it out. Have changed a lot of parts, no help. HELP!!!
-
Monte Carlo 2004 - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Kristina - August 2 - 3:50 amThis car is great and very reliable. Im a single mom though of 4 children. I really need to get a larger car. However I love my Monte Carlo! This car is very comfortable even with my children in the car. 4 doors would be nice though.
-
Love the car but too many problems - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By dalesrfan - July 29 - 11:33 pmI love my monte ss however there has been a lot of problems with wiring flickering lights, paint issues after only having the car for 3 years the paint was bubbling and now just peeling off. Gm told me they would do nothing, also catalytic converter problems and most recent oil pan completely rotted out.
-
A to B has never had so many compliments - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By MR B - July 28 - 6:20 amThis is my 2nd Monte Carlo. The 1st was a 2000 SS & I was planning on keeping it much longer but was offered a great deal on the 2004 Dale Ernhart Jr. model. I am a paraplegic & getting my wheelchair in & out is a must in any car. In the past, the car that fit best was usually a plain 2 door. Since Ive had these last 2 cars Ive had well over 100 compliments on them. Thats felt real nice, along with the performance and reliability Id have to say they have been my best cars in 32 years of driving.
-
MONTE CARLO SS COUPE - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By pprocess1 - July 12 - 10:00 amThis has been the BEST Car I have owned yet! EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT...PERIOD!!
-
The New Monte Carlo - 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By TallPaul - July 8 - 2:30 pmPlenty of head and leg room even for 6 4" people. Comfortable interior. Handles well in snowy conditions. Great gas mileage. Smooth responsive excelleration. Handles good for a larger car. Fantastic retail price. Good standard options. A sports car for a tall man.
-
Fun To Drive - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Supercharged - July 6 - 2:00 amI wanted a car that would be fun to drive and different from the crowd. The MC has plenty of power, a smooth ride and a hot look. Love it!
