2003 Chevrolet Venture: Road Test
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2003 Chevrolet Venture ▼
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- MSRP: $21,365 -$33,790
- Invoice: $19,763 -$30,580
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Our road test for the 2003 Chevrolet Venture includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chevrolet Venture from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chevrolet Venture, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chevrolet Venture help you decide if a 2003 Chevrolet Venture is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Front-drive models feel lively enough on takeoff and have satisfactory passing and merging power. AWD adds about 200 lb that saps off-the-line snap but doesn't affect acceleration much otherwise. The AWD is a boon in slippery conditions, especially with a load that transfers weight and thus traction off the front tires. Traction control is a worthwhile option on front-drive models.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Good for the class. Front-drive models averaged around 17 mpg in our tests, though one Montana returned just 15.7 in mostly city driving. Test AWDs averaged 16.3 mpg in a city/highway mix.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Most bumps easily absorbed in town; highway ride is comfortable and stable. AWD makes little difference either way. Available load-leveling suspension is a useful feature.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.3 |
A bit sportier than the minivan norm despite rather vague steering feel and fairly marked body lean by passenger-car standards. Braking controlled and progressive with ABS, but we deplore that GM makes it an option on some models simply to reduce sticker prices.
QUIETNESS
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
Wind noise prominent around mirrors at highway speed. Engine well-muffled. Coarse pavement generates prominent road noise around side-door area.
CONTROLS
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Gauges unobstructed. Audio controls large and nearby, but low-set climate controls demand stretching. Overburdened turn-signal stalk also handles wipers and cruise control. Rear-seat entertainment system has bright, ceiling-mounted screen and cordless headphones, but DVD unit sits low in the dashboard and is hard to load or operate while driving, though it can be adjusted via remote control. Drab interior materials reflect cost-conscious vehicle pricing; lightweight plastic dashboard trays and drawers tend to squeak and rattle.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Low step-in makes climbing aboard a simple matter, and head and leg room are generous. Driver has fine outward visibility, helped by large mirrors.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Good 2nd- and 3rd-row head room. But seats don't feel as substantial as those of rivals and are too close to floor for best adult comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9.3 |
Available 2nd-row buckets are light enough for easy rearranging and removal. Optional stowable 3rd-row seat doesn't disappear like Honda Odyssey's, but folds level with convenience tray, standing about 4 inches high.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 5.9 |
Venture and its siblings merit strong consideration. The Chevys are the best values, but all these GM models have reasonable base prices that include a fine array of features. And only Dodge, Chrysler, and Toyota offer AWD among direct competitors. Note, however, that the phaseout of Oldsmobile has damaged Silhoutte's near-term resale value and lease residual value.
Total Score
| LS reg. length | LT ext. length | LT ext. length AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 62 | 62 | 57.1 |
Total Score: 61
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