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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  yellow is HOT - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By lettuce47 - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Was the first yellow Monte in Pa. Love the car and the performance off the line for a V-6. Sleek body design, and the gas mileage is outstanding. Have 22k on Monte now, with absolutely no problems. Love this car...

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  Nice - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Adan - February 16 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a 98 monte carlo..its real nice

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  Very good car (for older driver) :) - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By KS~Driver - February 16 - 10:00 am

  I decided to buy my Monte after totalling a Cavalier and deciding bigger WAS better. It has been very reliable! Its only been in the shop every 3,000 miles for its oil change. The only complaint is that it looks like a "old peoples" car and not very attractive for a teenager, like me, to drive.

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  it is actually a fun and SAFE car - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By schatzie - February 16 - 10:00 am

  I drove my Monte for about 1 1/2 years before getting into an accident this week. I loved my car, the handling, the acceleration, the quick response, the awesome sound system. But what has really sold me was its performance in my auto accident. The crumple zones are a feature I can personally appreciate, since the car was totalled, and I walked away with only a couple of little bruises. Not only is this car fun, but it is safe!! This car and the Good Lord above saved my life. I am sold on this car and I am now shopping for my next Monte Carlo -- I am convinced!

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  Best Ive owned - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Donna King - February 13 - 8:16 am

  We go to the mountains and the winding roads are something else. I have to say my car takes curves awesome. It has to be the best thing Ive driven that hugs the curves so well, and the braking system is awesome too

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  Paint - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Ed Marcado - February 11 - 3:33 am

  The only thing that I have had a problem with, (which chevy is taking care of) is that the paint on the hood has chiped very easy. The 2nd week of ownership I took it on an 3000 mile drive and the car was so smooth and the gas mielage was unbelievable. I say 9.8 out of 10.

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  I LOVE this car!!!! - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Cathy - February 5 - 9:10 pm

  I recently bought a 2006 Monte Carlo SS and couldnt be happier. This car is fun to drive. Its a BEAST really!! I was worried about gas, seeing its a v8, but those worries went away. I drive mostly highway, and its excellent on gas. I love how this car looks, inside and out. My old car was a 02 Grand Prix GT (2 door) and this car is very similar, except with a lot more power. Chevy did a great job with the 06-07 models, and I couldnt be happier!! =]

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  monte carlo,ss-dream machine! - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By nascar granny - January 24 - 10:00 am

  i am a 56 year old grandmother, and have been in a lot of vehicles through my life time, i chose a beautiful red monte carlo,ss- for its sporty looks on the outside, and inside i have the look and feel of luxury with the leather interior,plenty of room for for all my grandchildren,and the dependability to get us to all the nascar events of the year! p.s.-- i am waiting for my next monte carlo, earnhart jr. signature series, please let me know when this car will be available. nascar granny

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  still styling and smiling - 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By stillrollin - January 9 - 7:36 pm

  I have a Dale Earnhardt edition and have been pleased. 95k miles and still goin. other than routine maint.and cat.converter.Recently had to change the t-stat,but after 94k, no problem. Havent changed brakes or even wiper blades, dont know whats up with that, crazy. Peppy and still stops on a dime. I really dont drive aggressively. But nice to know I could when I need to. My girl loves the seat warmer. When shes washed and polished,well its Black!More than I expected.

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  Fast and Fun Car - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Joe03 - January 5 - 2:00 am

  I have the Dale Earnhardt edition monte carlo and I am very pleased with it. The car is extrememly fast and very fun to drive. I recommend this car to anyone who wants to have fun.