2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

A success story?from track to street

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A 180-horsepower, 3.4-liter V-6 goes into the LS coupe, driving a four-speed automatic transmission. Even in LS form, with the smaller engine, the Monte Carlo is surprisingly energetic when accelerating from a standstill. Passing and merging response also is satisfying, helped by the well-behaved automatic transmission. Most buyers don't really need the SS's extra power.

Apart from a very slight snarl when accelerating hard, the Monte Carlo is pleasantly quiet. No road sounds of consequence interfere with the experience. Riding a 110.5-inch wheelbase, the Monte Carlo is 197.9 inches long, 72.3 inches wide, and stands 55.2 inches tall. Aimed at higher performance, the SS coupe gets larger stabilizer bars and bigger tires.

In crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Monte Carlo has earned a 5-star rating for both the driver and front passenger. Antilock braking is standard on the SS (optional for LS), along with a side-impact airbag for the driver--but not the front passenger.

Seats are abundantly cushioned, yet firm?and fully calibrated instruments are easy to read while controls are logically laid out. Five passengers fit in the Monte Carlo, which has 60/40-split rear seat. Standard equipment includes a cassette player, dual-zone air conditioning, cloth upholstery, and power windows, locks and mirrors. A moonroof and a Sport Appearance package are available for both models.

Fully calibrated instruments are easy to read and controls are logically laid out, though the glovebox is small. Seats are abundantly cushioned, yet firm with bottoms that are long enough to provide good thigh support. Unlike many two-door models, the Monte Carlo has ample space in the rear seat, though passenger heads sit right below the back glass. Getting into the back isn't too difficult, either.