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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Nice car! - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By nissianjeff - March 3 - 3:10 pmLooks good, inside and out. Love the light Gold color! Stereo sounds great! Comfy ride, in town or on Freeway. I did however have an issue with the headlights not working at night, while the day running lights DID still work. It needed a new multi function switch. Rather pricy part! The read tail light lens are getting full of hair line cracks in em too. That dont look to good, will have to replce soon I recon? Good milage! Friends all like it too. Good cold duel control AC, nice! Power everything! The fuel gage now is acting a lil squirlly. Dont always read right. Im being told it may need a whole new instrument cluster. Also told, thats NOT cheap either! All in all though, love this car!
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NASCAR Inspired Monte - 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Roland - February 28 - 6:33 pmThis is a fun car to drive with great power for a 4.9l. The body and fuel economy is outstanding for a 3400 pound car. Show me a car with that weight getting that kind of fuel economy with the price under 24k considering all the other models in its class. I will say I have the upgraded stereo and it stinks bad! Sound like the stereo is out of phase. Other than that I think it is a great car well worth a serious look at.
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Best Monte Carlo In Town - 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By PamCam - February 22 - 10:00 amThis car is very comfortable to drive. I can set the seat for me to use and adjust when needed. All the radio controlls are right at the seering wheel so as I dont have to reach to change the channel.I have OnStar, which makes the convienence of a hands free cell phone. Just push a button just above your head and start talking, you tell it what to do, can even check your E-mails.This car has a very sleek look and the exterior gives it a sporty look. Handling is perfect for anyone. Just a great car.
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My Baby - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Barnzy - January 28 - 6:36 amLeased my LT (3.8) new in Feb 05 and bought it when the lease expired. I now have 41K on the odometer and the car looks, and drives every bit as good as it did when I first got it. A smooth, quite ride; and exceptional acceleration and steering response. Fuel consumption was disappointing at first, but improved considerably after about 20K. I now average 24 mpg in town, and 30 on the highway. I consider this exceptional for a 3.8 engine and a car this size. This style Monte Carlo is sure to become a classic, and I hope to keep mine for many years to come.
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Love My Monte - 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Rosie - January 28 - 4:36 amI love my new Monte, fun to drive, fast, smooth and comfortable. I owned a 1984 Monte Carlo and love it. This one I will definitely keep.
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POS - 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By hi there - January 26 - 2:00 amNothing but problems...spark plug wires, vaccuum hose, alternator...the list goes on. DO NOT BUY ONE OF THESE!
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Never again, General Motors! - 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Charlie - January 24 - 4:56 pmI was excited when I bought this car after enduring a major life event that was health related. I had always had General Motors vehicles my entire life, both my parents worked for GM in Rochester, NY. The car had just under 95K miles when I purchased it. My first impression was the car having lots of pep and quite economical for being a good sized car. In the time I owned it (2 years), I have replaced all 4 rotors and brakes, the exhaust system (I replaced that with single exhaust, replacing the faux-duals would have costed a small fortune) and the rear parking brake linkage, which came apart. The 4 way flasher button on the dashboard broke and came apart. The high-beam switch doesnt click and keep them on high properly and periodically the dash will reset itself (as if starting the engine) in the middle of driving. The right front wheel sensor acts up when conditions are wet, which automatically disables the traction control. Topping it off, a week ago, I was returning home from running errands. I was exiting the expressway when I felt and heard a nasty vibration as I was coming to a stop. The cars transmission (4T65E) went, right then and there, at 108K miles. The car will now only move in reverse. Quite ironic, because I took a major step backward when I purchased this car. Too bad I didnt have a crystal ball. Its time to cut my losses. This coming week, I will be stepping into a Honda Civic. I cant wait! My Dad might spin in his grave, but GM cars have taken a major step back (or SIX) in quality over these last years. I dont plan on ever buying another one, Im done.
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Good every day car - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By Intech - January 21 - 10:00 amIve owned my monte carlo for 2.5 years and have really enjoyed it. Great ride, large trunk to carry all the tools and equipment for my computer business. Front rotors have been turned twice but havent held up very well. Slight pulsing at higher speeds. Overall, good comfortable car with very little maintenance.
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Not Bad - 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By BigDub - January 21 - 2:00 amI purchased this vehicle in January of 2001 with 45,000 miles on it. I drove that car any and everywhere and never put it in the shop. I took very good care of the vehicle as far a oil changes and tires. When I purchased the car I bought an extended warranty and warranty ran out so I traded the car in October of 2002. At the time of the trade the car had 76,000 miles on it. I never had a problem
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future classic - 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
By b-rett - January 16 - 10:00 ambest car for money. runs and handles great.
