Note: This performance review was created when the 2011 Chevrolet Express was new.
Performance: | 7.2 |
Overall, the Chevrolet Express’ performance is on par with the other work vans in its class. Reviewers feel that while its V6 engine is underpowered, the remaining V8s provide enough oomph for most tasks. The auto press thinks that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a bit more maneuverable, and the Ford E-350’s towing capacity is the same as the Chevrolet Express 3500’s 10,000-pound maximum. Still, the Express is the only large van that offers all-wheel drive, so if you need a heavy-duty van to haul people or gear, reviewers say it’s a good choice. The Express 1500 models offer all-wheel drive, but it will add about $3,500 to the price tag.
The Chevrolet Express offers a choice between four gas engines and a diesel engine, so you can customize your van to emphasize fuel economy or power, depending on the body style. In general, reviewers feel that the V6 is fuel-efficient but not powerful enough to handle heavy loads, while the V8 engines are up to most tasks. The auto press especially likes the diesel, which is the same one used in the Chevrolet Silverado HD. Writers say it’s competent for almost any job.
The two-wheel drive Cargo 1500 model comes with a 4.3-liter V6 and makes 195 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine gets an EPA-rated fuel economy of 15/20 mpg city/highway, making it the most fuel-efficient choice. All other 1500 models, including all-wheel drive Passenger and Cargo trims, Upfitter models and two-wheel drive Passenger trims, come standard with a 5.3-liter V8 that puts 310 horsepower and 334 pound-feet of torque to the ground. The EPA estimates this V8 will get 13/17 mpg city/highway. This engine is also flex-fuel capable, but you’ll pay an additional price if you want to use ethanol. This engine only gets 10/13 mpg city/highway using E85 fuel.
Stepping up to any 2500 model or a Cargo 3500 model will get you a standard 4.8-liter V8 that’s rated for 10/16 mpg city/highway and makes 280 horsepower. Models like the Upfitter 2500, Passenger 3500 and Upfitter 3500 get a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 323 horsepower and gets a dismal 11/16 mpg city/highway. Finally, shoppers considering a Passenger 3500, Cargo 2500 or Cargo 3500 have the option to upgrade to a Duramax 6.6-liter V8 turbodiesel engine that puts only 260 horsepower to the ground, but makes up for its lack of acceleration with a generous 525 pound-feet of torque. The EPA estimates that models with this engine will get 10/16 mpg city/highway, making it the worst engine choice for around-town driving, but on par with the rest of the lineup on the highway.
All 1500 models come standard with a four-speed automatic transmission, while 2500 and 3500 models get a six-speed automatic.
Reviewers say that the Chevrolet Express handles reasonably well for such a large van. One writer mentions that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter may be a bit more agile, although it is significantly larger. Still, as long as shoppers don’t expect the Chevrolet Express to drive like a luxury sports car, reviewers say it works just fine.
The Chevrolet Express ties the Ford E-Series for the highest tow ratings in the class, able to pull trailers weighing up to 10,000 pounds behind Cargo 3500 models. The base Passenger 1500 vans can tow at least 6,200 pounds, which is still more than enough to tow an 18-foot boat or a loaded 6-by-12 U-Haul trailer. The Express can also haul a maximum payload of 4,187 pounds in Cargo 3500 models and a maximum of 1,722 pounds in Express Passenger 1500 models.
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