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:

• 

  Great Car - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Jeff - May 31 - 4:43 pm

  This is the 2nd current generation Monte Carlo Ive had. So far this car is great, plenty of comfort features, more than enough power and acceleration, great handling.

• 

  The Full Monte - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Willinator - May 30 - 8:06 am

  The last car I owned was a 1972 Olds Cutlass, which I sold in 1986. Since then, I have owned and driven new Ford and Chevy 1/2 ton trucks. Accordingly, I was not sure how I would like driving a car again. I traded a 2002 Ford Supercrew in on a 2004 Dale Earnardt signature Monte Carlo SS Supercharged Intimidator. WOW! I absolutely love this car. The ride and comfort are fantastic. The handling is superb and the acceleration exhilarating. My only gripe is the 125 mph speed governor. (nice to have found a well paved, straight road out in the desert to find this out)

• 

  Fun to Drive - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Dennis M - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Great looks good ride nice get up and go. Crank up the 200amps enjoy the ride.

• 

  hindsight is 20/20 - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By chicagoan - May 6 - 10:00 am

  What a mistake buying this car was. Complete trans failure at 24k miles. Required a complete trans rebuild. Also had to have the entire steering column and both wheel hub assemblies replaced, drivers side window motor replaced twice as well. The airbag trim on the drivers seat does not fit and so badly that you can put four adult fingers between the trim and the leather. Even new, this car feels like it has 100,000 miles on it. It is big and safe but its also noisy, sluggish and every piece of plastic rattles. GM is five years behind in engineering and design. Look elsewhere folks, donÂ’t repeat my mistake.

• 

  Excellent Vehicle... - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Chris Barter - May 4 - 10:00 am

  The Z34 has the larger of the two engines....which has had a number of problems. My Monte LS has the 3.1L and has never been in the shop and should last well beyond 150,000 miles. The 3.4L is another story. If your considering a GM product, word to the wise, make sure it has the 3.1L in it.

• 

  Better than Most - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Saigashooter - April 28 - 4:06 am

  A nice car for a single person, or to just have fun in from time to time. The 3.8 NA V6 is easy on gas but still has some giddy up, though a stock 4.3 or larger V6 would be nice. The car is large though it doesnt handle like a boat. Transmission is a weak point if you have a bad habit of laying rubber at intersections, though it is mostly due to a poorly built throttle position sensor, which causes whining between 2k and 3K rpm The car certainly looks different than any domestic or import sedan or coupe, and people will comment on it. The interior is nice, though some owners report gaps between the glovebox and dash. The rubber treatment on the interior needs to go, as it wears easily.

• 

  nothin but trouble - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ashamed - April 27 - 2:00 am

  first set of wires went at about 30k, replaced under warrenty. second set at about 80k. Alternator died at 84,000 miles, water pump and thermostat replaced at 105,000. after tranny went at 110,000 miles I figured I just about rebuild the darn thing and should get a few years of trouble free use, WRONG. Im on my third thermostat, set of wires, battery, water pump, tires, and the head gasket is shot. Ill never buy another chevy!!

• 

  2007 Monte Carlo SS 5.3 Liter - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By Rexter - April 1 - 11:16 pm

  I have owned three of these Monte Carlos; A 2000 V-6, a 2003 V-6, and now the 5.3L V-8. The V-8 is an interstate cruiser with its long wheel base, drivers seat with lumbar adjustments, power and handling - a real joy on a long trip. The mileage running in 4 cylinder mode is impressive. In teh flat lands of Florida on cruise control i achieved 31 mpg!! Pretty amazing out of a 300+ HP V-8. I have added a performance chip from Jet and a K&N cold air intake. I have not had it dyno tested since those mods, but with hightest gas, the results are noticeable - guess 15 to 20 HP. This machine fits my bill and I am very happy with it. I have not seen another like it in Red Jewel paint and bra

• 

  Great - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By ASR - March 30 - 2:00 am

  I bought htis for my first car this is a great car its reliable and gets great gas milage its also good for people w/ long legs

• 

  SS Supersport - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
  By SS 2004 - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Excellent vehicle. Highly recommended.