2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo: Road Test
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2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo ▼
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- MSRP: $21,160 -$23,560
- Invoice: $19,361 -$21,557
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Our road test for the 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo help you decide if a 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.2 |
Adequate with base V6, thanks in part to responsive automatic transmission. SS is no rocket, but its larger, torquier V6 provides brisk takeoffs, ready passing power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Both models log low 20-mpg averages in our tests. GM recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
LS is stable in freeway cruising and comfortable overall, though it floats some on highway dips. SS has firmer damping, but is compliant enough on bumpy city streets.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6.1 |
LS has modest limits, but feels reasonably balanced and secure in corners. SS copes better with twisty roads, showing good grip and only moderate body lean. Both have accurate, if slightly overassisted steering. Braking with ABS feels strong, with good pedal response, but quick stops induce excessive nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Engines are loud and gruff in full-throttle acceleration. Tire roar prominent on coarse surfaces.
CONTROLS
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
Gauge groupings and graphics are excellent; controls fall easily to hand. Cabin finish and materials are pretty mundane, though. And most rivals offer side-airbag protection for both front occupants.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Midsize-car size means more space than in most "sports coupes." Adults can stretch out on comfortable bucket seats. Thick rear roof pillars impede over-the-shoulder vision. Long doors heavy, cumbersome.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.4 |
Leg room adequate for average-size adults, but head room gets tight with optional sunroof and entry/exit is twist-and-stoop. Still, roomier than rival Toyota, Honda, and Dodge/Chrysler coupes.
CARGO ROOM
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
Trunk is tall, wide, and deep with convenient bumper-height liftover.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6.2 |
Chevy denies Monte Carlo several key pieces of previously standard equipment for '03, but doesn't compensate with meaningful reductions in the car's base price. So Monte Carlo loses much of its edge over the majority of like-priced coupes in terms of features-per-dollar. And while it's not as polished as Japanese-brand rivals and won't hold its value as well, it still has its own American-car character.
Total Score
| LS | SS | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 52 | 56.1 |
Total Score: 51
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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