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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  A Sporty Comfortable Package! - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By vmz - July 5 - 10:00 am

  After driving about twenty vehicles at the GM AutoShow In-Motion, I found this car to be an exceptional value. Taking its size in consideration there are no other foriegn or domestic coupes that stack up to it. The Monte is truly American and a through back to days gone by in ways similar to the PT Cruiser. It gives you a Caddy feel with a Chevy price tag. Under normal and cruising driving conditions, the feel is smooth and solid. The interior though tastefully sparse is spacious and comfortable. If size, solid feel, distinct styling, and good value for the money is what you want, then give the Monte a test drive. I think it will win you over!

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  Quality product? - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By second monte family - June 28 - 2:03 pm

  My 2006 Monte has had nothing but problems from day one. Had to replace steering twice and then last month got a recall notice for the same. The dealer has been looking for the problem with the computer since I bought it. What is with that? I love Chevy vehicles but this one is disappointing to say the least.

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  Steering column and driver seat heater - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By CB - June 26 - 11:40 pm

  I like the body and look, everything I look for in a car. I noticed after 20 thousand miles a feeling in the steering, something to do with an addition to the steering column to comply with some sort of collapsing requirements. The mechanic was aware of the problem and replaced the worn part under warranty. Shortly there after the drivers side seat heater stopped working. I miss that option as I drive in all weather with the window open. Wont pay to have that fixed. After 30 thousand miles the feeling in the steering column has returned. Time for another diagnostic check, hope it wont cost too much. I like the car and Ill fix it for a while.

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  Ok car for the money - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Jessz71 - June 23 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the car in 1/2003 and have had it for a year. It is a decent looking car, but not that I am nearing 100,000 miles seems like everything is going at once. When you accelerate to 3500 the transmission shifts very hard when it is warm, but when it is cold smooth as a daisy. It is leaking oil from the pan and when you roll the windows up when it is cold the dont roll all the way up. The anti lock light also is on and it seems that the shocks are going. I change oil and do regualar maintenance, but i just dont understand.

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  monte carlo z34 - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By shelbyvillepd232 - June 21 - 10:00 am

  only big problem was the alternator. car handles like a mix between a sports car and a luxury car.

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  Love it! - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By larry - June 20 - 11:40 pm

  Have had NO problems with this car. Purchased it used with 11,000 miles on it. The gas mileage is fantastic! I learned a new way to drive by watching the mileage on the information center, and average 30+ per gallon. On a trip, I can get up to 40 mpg! (stay away from the ethanol, it ruins the mileage!)

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  Great Drive - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Don - June 17 - 1:53 pm

  Since I purchased my Monte Carlo, Ive had no problems with it. The gas mileage isnt bad for a V-8. The car is comfortable to drive. Very roomy for taller people. The way the back seat opens into the trunk is very useful for carrying things. With no molding on the exterior sides, I have to be careful where I park. Overall this is the first car Ive had in a long time I plan to keep beyond two years.

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  My First Monte Carlo - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Antoine Santiago - June 8 - 9:30 pm

  This is my first sports car. I have always wanted a sports car and I choose the Monte Carlo. I love the new look and its a large two door coupe, with plenty of inside room. Its also an American car and I believe in the support of American made cars. The monte carlo is a fun car and ladies love it.

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  poor quality - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Steve - June 5 - 9:56 am

  This is my 2nd car has been a nightmare since the 2nd month. (First car was an 88 chevy pick up still have it) Took delivery, about 2 months later the computer fried, fixed under warranty. I drive it like a grandma for another couple of months, then the brakes go at 9K miles. Bring it to get a punctured tire fixed, they tell me the that the rear tires are bald on the inside; this at under 20K miles. They tell me that the car must have been off alignment from the factory. When you are in a turn and hit a bump, the steering mechanism or a wheel feels like it is going to fall off. Will never buy Chevy or American EVER again. Traded the car in for a Subaru and have not looked back since.

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  Monte SS - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By NEONAL - June 2 - 1:06 am

  Have only had car six weeks but thoroughly enjoy it. Very smooth acceleration and comfortable ride! Gas mileage not great, but power is good!