About the Chevrolet VentureIn the beginning of its eight-year run, the Chevrolet Venture proved to be a very popular minivan. The vehicle, which could seat seven or eight passengers depending on the configuration of its rear seats, had a mid-range price that appealed to drivers with families. The 3.4-liter V6 engine gave the vehicle power to spare, allowing it to transport a full load of passengers with ease. The Chevy Venture was available with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive options and boasted a cargo capacity of 140.7 cubic feet with the seats up, giving it plenty of versatility.As a Chevrolet vehicle, the Venture was designed by Detroit-based General Motors and manufactured in Doraville, Georgia. The only available transmission for the Chevy Venture was a four-speed automatic. When properly equipped, the minivan had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds thanks to the 3.4-liter V6 engine's output of 185 horsepower. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Venture was hardly a standout. Front-wheel drive versions got 17 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg... View more combined. The first Chevrolet Ventures rolled onto dealer lots in 1997. At the time, the demand for minivans was still quite high. Originally, the vehicle was available with three or four doors; the driver's side sliding door was a popular option. In 2003, Chevy did away with the three-door configuration altogether. In 2005, it also discontinued the standard wheelbase, making the extended one the only available option. A Warner Brothers special edition, which was produced from 2000 to 2003, was exceptionally popular. Despite the Venture's eight-year run, only a single generation was produced. One of the most unique – and polarizing – features of the Chevrolet Venture was its modular seating. The seven-passenger configuration allowed each seat to be removed, as needed. Unfortunately, the seats weren't known for being especially comfortable. An eight-passenger configuration, with middle row captain's seats, was often selected by drivers. During its later years, the Venture featured popular options, such as OnStar, leather seating and satellite radio. While it was never known for its exceptional luxury or top-of-the-line craftsmanship, the Venture was considered to be a solid choice for busy families. The awards that the Chevy Venture accumulated through the years are quite telling, primarily revolved around value. Since it could accommodate up to eight passengers and plenty of cargo, the minivan was a definite deal. It was listed as a Consumer Guide Recommended Buy in 2002 and 2003. In 2001, it was featured as a Consumer Guide Best Buy. The AAA Auto Guide also listed the Venture as a Maximum Value Minivan for Minimal Bucks in 2003. It was discontinued in 2005 and succeeded by the Chevrolet Uplander View less | |||
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