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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Awesome car - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By james - June 30 - 9:06 amI purchased this Monte Carlo because I wanted a sporty 2 door. Very satisfied with the car and the power, features, and mileage. Couldnt ask for a better car for the money.
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2004 MONTI - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By john c.4643 - June 30 - 2:00 amThe best car I ever owned in 45 years of driving.
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fun and safe - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By chris kuellenberg - June 24 - 10:00 amI had purchased my monte carlo ss about 3 months ago. I am a car salesman and know everything about the vehicle, so i knew it was a great car, but i got hit by a truck on the drivers side door last week and i am really sore but really impressed by the car. i was hit at 50mph and have no injuries other then soreness. I will buy another one i love that car.
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Good value - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By beegee - June 17 - 2:00 amGood american built car. Great freeway driver. 200 HP engine - more than enough to get through most daily traffic situations. I like that it does not look like most other cars.
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My 4th Monte, the best yet. - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Phil24 - May 16 - 2:00 amThis is my 4th Monte Carlo in a row, and its been the most fun to drive out of them. The supercharger gives a lot of added excitement and preformance that my 2001 SS lacked. Speaking of preformance, the car handles great in all types of adverse weather, no tendency to spin in the snow or hydroplane in the rain at all. Im a large person (66 and 300 pounds) and this car is extreamly comfortable for me to drive, both short trips and extended drives over 4 hours.
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I Love This Car - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Krysta - May 10 - 8:56 pmI love my car. It is the 1st car I have purchased, and I could not have asked for more. It is fun and sporty, but still roomy and spacious on the inside. Its pretty fast for a car its size, and the body shap is inique. It has great curves, and there is not a car on the road that looks anything like it. The car drives like a dream, and in my opinion it handles really well. I love the color on my car, the color is called Berry Red Metalic, and I have not seen one in my area with the same color.
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Smooth ride - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Stick Morgan - May 7 - 4:16 amWanted to get back into a two door coupe and I am very happy with my decision to lease the SS. I think this car is sharp looking. My SS has is black with a neutral interior. I love the tan seats against the black exterior. Also has the optional silver moldings, which add a nice touch.
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Love It - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Studmuffin - April 30 - 2:00 amGreat car with no problems
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Durable - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By sbbarnes - April 19 - 3:56 pmI purchased my Monte Carlo from my uncle who bought it new. It had a few minor oil leaks and some transmission leaks. It was easily fixed and now it currently has over 225,000 miles. Not one spot of rust, though some stone pecks. The doors havent dropped at all. It is just as quiet as ever. This one has the 3100 engine. No problems yet. Though the gas mileage isnt as good. I average 24-27 mostly highway.
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Julias Monte Carlo - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By lngjulia - April 11 - 2:00 amLove this car. It is fun. With a lot of get up and go. Also gets lots of compliments
