Traditional value - 2004 Chevrolet Venture minivan
Versatility, safety devices, convenience and new fun-to-use features make the 2004 Chevrolet Venture the "do more" minivan. The folks at Chevrolet turned up the heat in the minivan wars with the addition of a third row stowable seat, Versatrak all-wheel drive system, DVD player, optional dual power sliding doors, available XM Satellite Radio and OnStar Communications system -- just the thing for busy, modern families.
Built exclusively at General Motors' Doraville, Ga., manufacturing complex, the Chevrolet Venture shares its underpinnings with the Oldsmobile Silhouette and Pontiac Montana minivans. Available in regular or extended wheelbase body styles, the Venture minivan is offered in Plus trim for the regular wheelbase model. Long wheelbase model choices include Plus, LS and LT while the all-wheel drive model is offered only in LT trim.
All Ventures are powered by a 3400 Series V-6 engine mated a four-speed automatic transmission. For the person looking for a minivan that accelerates and handles like a sports sedan, this Chevrolet fits the ticket. On the road, this powertrain is very responsive with handling and control characteristics that make the demands of daily commuting a breeze.
The Venture minivan employs independent MacPherson struts in front with a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is semi-independent, with a twist axle, coil springs and integrated stabilizer bar. P215/70R15 General XP 2000 GT tires work with the suspension hardware to maintain balance and control. All-wheel drive models employ the same front suspension hardware, but use a fully independent, double wishbone rear suspension, stabilizer bar and monotube air leveling shock absorbers with P225/60R16 tires.
The optional Versatrak all-wheel drive system is designed to help the driver make use of the traction available by not only transferring torque from front to rear, but also from side to side between the rear wheels. This all-wheel drive system has the ability to transfer torque directly even when slight front-wheel slippage occurs. It directs as much as 44 percent of the engine's power to each rear wheel either individually or simultaneously as needed.
Inside the cabin, displays and controls are excellent. A low step in height makes this minivan easily accessible. A good view of the road greets the driver as well as a very comfortable driver's seat.
Dual manual sliding side doors are standard. A power passenger-side sliding side door is standard on LT. Dual power sliding side doors are optional for LS and LT.
Chevrolet went to great lengths to make the seating configuration very versatile for hauling most any combination of people and/or cargo. There are up to 200 different seating configurations when the Venture is equipped with the available modular bucket seats.
Depending on the seating package, the Chevrolet offers up to 17 cup holders. A convenience center behind the third row features three compartments for easy organizing. The middle compartment has a sealed bottom and sides for wet bathing suits, muddy boots or even garden plants.
Quick vehicle stats
Regular wheelbase: 112.0; overall length: 186.9; width: 72.0; height: 67.4 -- measurements in inches
Extended wheelbase: 120.0; overall length: 200.9; width: 72.0; height: 68.1 -- measurements in inches
Engine: 3400 3.4L V-6 -- 185 hp at 5,200 rpm and 210 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm
Transmission: Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed electronic automatic with overdrive
EPA fuel economy: 19 city/26 highway (front drive); 18 city/24 highway (all-wheel drive) using regular unleaded gasoline
Cargo capacity: 126.6 cu. ft., (regular wheelbase); 140.7 cu. ft., (extended wheelbase)
Maximum payload: 1612 lbs., (regular wheelbase); 1457 lbs., (extended wheelbase)
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.
Safety features
Dual front airbags, programmable power door locks, daytime running lights, battery rundown protection and high strength steel side-guard door beams. LS adds four-wheel anti lock brakes, driver and front passenger side-impact airbags and remote keyless entry. LT adds four-wheel disc brakes (AWD) and traction control. Optional safety equipment includes rear parking assist and theft-deterrent security alarm system.
Warranty
Basic: 3 year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper
Corrosion: 6 year/100,000 mile
Roadside assistance: 3 year/36,000 mile, 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the 2004 Chevrolet Venture minivan starts from $21,315 for the regular wheelbase model to $33,290 for the extended wheelbase LT AWD. Destination charge adds $680.
As tested
2004 Chevrolet Venture LT extended wheelbase minivan
Exterior color: Blue Granite
Interior Color: Medium Gray
Tires: General XP 2000 GT P215/70R15
Base price $30,240
Destination charge $ 680
Leather trim $ 820
Six-disc in-dash CD player $ 395
Trailering package $ 165
Total as tested $32,300
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