New Vehicle Review

By: Kristi Bannen

I referred to this car, the 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS Coupe, as the "silver bullet". Not just for its Galaxy Silver Metallic color, but more appropriately for its power when accelerating. A 3.4-liter, V6 engine is standard on the Monte Carlo LS generating 180 horsepower.

Chevrolet brands this car as one made for the racetrack, especially since it’s tied so heavily into motorsports and NASCAR racing. It was quite obvious to me this car performed quickly and with some definite "oomph" which I loved. J It’s no wonder various police departments are also driving Monte Carlos.

Besides the smooth pick-up, it was very comfortable to drive and with hardly any road noise. The Monte Carlo LS Coupe we test drove had many standard, and useful, features. Some included: four-wheel anti-lock braking system, dual power mirrors, air conditioning, electronic rear window defogger, and power windows with driver express down. Electronic traction control is now also standard on all Monte Carlo models.

The base price of our test car was $19,570 and was upgraded with about $3,500 options. The options included: an electric sunroof; six-way power driver seat; driver info center with an alarm, trip computer, outside temperature and compass; and a Sport Appearance Package that came with aluminum wheels and a pace car replica rear spoiler. Plus, a Preferred Equipment Package that included cruise control; cargo net; the OnStar communications system; remote keyless with illuminated entry; dual zone climate control; and illuminated visors. The AM/FM stereo system with CD and cassette player had six speakers and was equipped with the auto tone control and speed compensated volume - I think that’s a nice extra to have.

I liked the sporty design of the Monte Carlo LS Coupe including the rear spoiler, sunroof, headlamps and taillights. From the exterior, the trunk looks very large and it does have plenty of room on the inside as well. The trunk also opens into the rear seat area with the 60/40 split folding rear seat and has the cargo net for securing items.

As for the interior, I would have preferred leather seats to make the car more refined looking. I think the black leather interior with black exterior is very sharp. The windows, mirrors, and locks were all power operated. And the instrument panel was wide and easy to view and use. Cruise and radio controls were built right in to the steering wheel.

The Monte Carlos LS Coupe was comfortable enough for 5 people and I felt secure driving it. It had dual front impact air bags; a trunk release handle; auto daytime running lamps; child seat tether anchors; rearview mirror with map lights; and a theft deterrent system.

Overall, out of a four-tire rating, with four being the very best, I give the 2001 Monte Carlo LS Coupe a 3 tires plus a spare for an above average rating. I enjoyed how the car handled, how comfortable it was, and how quick it was to accelerate and react.

According to Chevrolet, no model has won more NASCAR races than Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo racecars were responsible for 276 victories over the last 27 years (through the 1999 season). To name only a few Monte Carlo race car drivers, they’ve included: Jeff Gordon, the late Dale Earnhardt Sr., Dale Earnhardt Jr., Terry Labonte, and Michael Waltrip.