2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo help you decide if a 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is right for you.

2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (Supercharged SS)	Engine noise

Instruments/controls	Rear-seat entry/exit

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
5	6	7	5.2

Adequate with 3.4 V6, thanks in part to responsive automatic transmission. SS is no rocket, but its larger, torquier V6 provides brisk takeoffs, ready passing power. Supercharged SS adds useful muscle, especially over 35 mph.

Fuel Economy

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
5	5	4	5.3

Test LS and SS averaged 20 mpg. Expect 17-20 with Supercharged SS. GM recommends premium-grade fuel for supercharged V6, regular for the others.

Ride Quality

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
6	6	5	6.2

LS stable in freeway cruising, comfortable overall despite float over highway dips. Firmer SS models improve composure, stay compliant enough on bumpy streets.

Steering/Handling/Braking

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
5	6	7	6.1

Steering accurate, if slightly overassisted. LS has modest cornering limits, but feels reasonably balanced, secure in turns. SS versions cope better with twisty roads, though body lean, noseplow temper aggressive driving. Braking with ABS feels strong, with good pedal response, but quick stops induce excessive nosedive.

Quietness

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
6	6	6	5.8

Engines loud, gruff in full-throttle acceleration. Some tire roar prominent on coarse surfaces.

Controls

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
6	6	6	6.4

Laudable gauge groupings and graphics. Controls fall easily to hand. Cabin finish and materials unexceptional but right for the price.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
6	6	6	6

More space than in most 2-dr cars. Adults can stretch out on comfortable bucket seats. Most rivals offer side-airbag protection for both front occupants. Thick rear roof pillars impede over-the-shoulder vision. Long doors heavy, cumbersome.

Room/Comfort (rear)

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
3	3	3	4.5

Leg room adequate for average-size adults, but head room gets tight with optional sunroof. Entry/exit is twist-and-stoop. Still, roomier than rival Toyota, Honda, and Dodge/Chrysler coupes.

Cargo Room

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
4	4	4	4.6

Wide, deep trunk with convenient bumper-height liftover.

Value within Class

LS	SS	Supercharged SS	Class Average
4	4	4	6

Monte Carlo beats Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus coupes for size and power, but trails Japanese-brand rivals in refinement, safety features, and resale value.

Total Score