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- Highs Loads of cargo space, diesel engine option, excellent hauling and towing capacity.
- Lows Truck-like ride, bare-bones interior, outdated infotainment system.
- Verdict The Express offers power, versatility, and plenty of cargo room, but it's outclassed by more up-to-date rivals.
Overview
The Express is in the 15th year of its third generation, tracing its roots to the 1971 Chevy van. While competitors from Ford and Ram have replaced their American-style boxes with more modern European designs, the Chevy Express soldiers on virtually unchanged. Chevrolet has made some updates since the current generation’s 2003 premier, mostly by dropping old engines for more efficient powertrains. The Chevy Express is available in short- (135.2-inches) and long-wheelbase (155.1 inches) versions, with overall lengths of 224.3 or 243.6 inches, respectively. The panel variant is primarily used as a commercial delivery vehicle, while the passenger van with side windows is suitable for big families or shuttle use. Either is available with sliding or hinged rear side-doors. The Express also is available in chassis form for custom cargo “cubes” behind the cab.
What's New for 2018?
GM’s new EcoTech 4.3-liter V-6 engine is the Express's new standard powerplant, replacing the 4.8-liter V-8 in the model's lineup. Also for 2018, GM’s OnStar and rearview camera are now standard across the lineup, and blind-spot monitoring is a new option.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Base: $32,490
- LS: $34,710
- LT: $36,535
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In addition to the new, base 4.3-liter 276-hp gas V-6, the Express is available with a 181-hp 2.8-liter turbodiesel inline four, which out-punches larger powertrains with its 369 pound-feet of torque. The top engine is an available gasoline 6.0-liter V-8 rated at 329 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque. The Express comes only with rear-wheel-drive. Transmissions are six- and eight-speed automatics. Being a large, maxi-van designed to move a lot of cargo or a lot of people, there is not much to be said about this Chevy’s handling or performance. It will launch adequately into heavy highway traffic no matter the engine choice, and its ride is acceptable, though still truck-like, especially if you’re a passenger sitting near the rear axle.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
There are just two single vinyl-covered seats up front in cargo versions of the Chevrolet Express, with flat cushions to make it easy for delivery drivers to get in and out dozens of times per workday. The base model is quite basic, with vinyl floor covering, but does include such features as air conditioning, power windows and door locks, and a rear-vision camera. Higher trims and option packages bring along items like cloth seats, carpeting, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, remote start, and power seats. Passenger van Express models may be configured for up to 15 passengers, with options that include plush leather upholstery, a leather-covered steering wheel, and rear air conditioning.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Light on technology, the base Express comes with a two-speaker stereo, an auxiliary input, and GM's OnStar telematics system with emergency alert. Optional features include a 6.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a USB port, a CD player, and satellite radio. Compared to rivals, even the optional infotainment system in the Express looks and feels outdated.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Chevrolet Express’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
