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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IF ONLY - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Richard in OK - March 22 - 10:00 amI bought my Z34 cheaply,and got a 2yr. warranty with it.Lets face it,its a sport coupe, not a luxury sedan. The ride is stiff, which you are reminded of at every bump .The seats are uncomfortable and its hard to get in and out of the back seat.Performance is very good once you get the car moving and it finds the rpm that it likes. I never worry about passing cars as the power is always there. Fuel economy on the highway with air on is about 28 mpg.Little things could have made this car great. One thing,those Z34s that run well,seem to run well. Be thankful,if you have one, but be aware of the problems.Call me crazy, but I still have to like this car.
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evaluation - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By booth - March 22 - 10:00 amsince I owned my first Impala S.S. Ive always wanted another one. Its great to have an American car that drives as good as it looks. great car
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Mighty Monte Carlo - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By jwymannascar - March 22 - 10:00 amBought new 2003 Monte LS after putting 200,000 miles on 1998 Grand Prix. Overall the Monte drives like the GP but has more room and comfort. The 3400 is almost as fast as the 3800 in the GP but gets better mileage. Like the split seats in the Monte opposed to the armrest access in the GP.
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Disappointed Monte Carlo owner - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Russell Roebuck - March 16 - 12:40 pmI have never spent so much money on repairs in my life! First intake manifold, then Ttransmission problems, next catlaytic converter, next BCM, next thermostat which cost $290 plus tax also oil change every 3000 miles. Radiator and cooling system flushed, Driver side power window unit needs replaced. Seat belt doesnt retract on drivers side. Only a little over 80,000 miles and mostly highway driving. What a lemon piece of junk car and Ill never buy another one. I hate to say but Ive owned Nissans for about 20 years before this car and never had any repair bills.
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Best Monte Carlo in Years - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Dave - March 15 - 7:13 amI bought my 2001 MC SS used w/ a little over 60k miles on it. The only disappointments I have found would be the absence of the V8 and manual shifter. Car styling is excellent, much better than the mid-90s models. This car has impressive pwr coming from the V6 when needed. Steering is a bit stiff in tight corners, but really drives great at speeds exceeding 80mph. The only thing that I have noticed that is out of sort is a slight popping coming from the front wheels when pulling off of an incline. I have had this checked out and it seems to be just a qwirk with the traction control feature. Nothing worth breaking a sweat over.
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Lady Chevy Lover - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Chevy Lady - March 13 - 10:00 amEven though I havent had my Berry Monte very long, I am loving it. It is very roomy and comfortable and handles very well. I drive an hour to and from work and it is a very smooth and comfortable ride.
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Love my SS - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By ziggy - March 10 - 2:00 amI hadnt seen many on the road before I got my SS until a buddy of mine drove up in one. I fell in love instantly. I still get looks today. Very distinctive styling makes it unlike anything on the road. The hints of older Monte styling are perfect. Interior is very comfortable for every day driving as well as long trips. Controls are nicely placed and very functional, especially the steering wheel mounted stereo and cruise controls. Had good pick up and a very tight suspension for those fast turns. Do wish a V8, manual transmission would be offered with rear wheel drive. Overall, a well built coupe thats very fun to drive.
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Love my SS - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Ziggy - March 10 - 2:00 amI hadnt seen many on the road before I got my SS until a buddy of mine drove up in one. I fell in love instantly. I still get looks today. Very distinctive styling makes it unlike anything on the road. The hints of older Monte styling are perfect. Interior is very comfortable for every day driving as well as long trips. Controls are nicely placed and very functional, especially the steering wheel mounted stereo and cruise controls. Had good pick up and a very tight suspension for those fast turns. Do wish a V8, manual transmission would be offered with rear wheel drive. Overall, a well built coupe thats very fun to drive.
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My SuperSport - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By SummerSS - March 4 - 10:00 amThe Monte Carlo is a good deal for the money. I like the spacious interior. I am going to college next year and the large amount of space is a big plus! I own a SS with the high sport appearance package and it is wonderful! Not only does it look great, but it drives great too! My only problem has been the motor in my passenger side window going out.
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I love this car! - 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By 1 HOT MONTE CARLO SS - March 3 - 7:50 pmI got an 01 Monte Carlo and have the best time driving it! Love the room and power. Much has improved since the 90s that I had. I would keep buying this car as long as it keeps on giving me good service. And for those other guys who say that their Monte Carlo is junk then they must be doing something wrong! Because funny thing i have naver had any trouble with my cars like that.
