Overview
The Chevrolet Express Van has been a proven passenger hauler ever since its debut nearly forty years ago. However, the complete redesign in 1996 spruced up the van with new body styling that featured high-mounted taillights, new power plants and an updated cabin with improved ergonomics. This distinctive vehicle comes outfitted with features to compete with its Ford and Dodge counterparts.
The 2011 Express Passenger Van has a roomy cabin that can seat up to 15 passengers. It is equipped with a remote vehicle start, E85 capability and variable valve timing on 4.8L, 5.3L and 6.0L engines. E85 comprises 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, reduces greenhouse gas and smog-forming emissions, is domestically produced and helps reduce dependence on petroleum. The 2500 and 3500 now models receive Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission and revised rear axles, delivering improved low-rpm torque, highway fuel economy, drivability and auto grade braking. The Express Passenger Van comes in 1500, 2500, and 3500 versions, in LS and LT trims.
Power and performance
The Express Passenger Van offers a powerful choice of engines that ranges from the fuel-sipping Vortec 4.3L V6 engine with an EPA estimated 20 MPG highway(gas) to an extensive lineup of available Vortec V8 powerplants and to the available Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 - the most powerful diesel in its class. A Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 - the most powerful diesel in its class, powers the Express 3500 Passenger Van while a Vortec 4.8L E85 FlexFuel V8 engine now standard on 2500 and 3500 models. The available Vortec 5.3L V8 and Vortec 6.0L V8 engines are both E85 FlexFuel-capable.
Body and styling
The exterior of the Express Passenger Van is built for superior strength and ruggedness. The LS comes equipped with all basic features as well as air-conditioning and a stereo as the key standard features. The LT comes with rear A/C, full power accessories, cruise control, and plusher seats. Available in 8, 12, and 15 passenger seating configurations, the Express Passenger Van offers room for a large family, small choir, or even an entire basketball team. This full-size van has advanced features such as a Driver Information Center (DIC), which helps keep the driver up to date on various functions including fuel range, average speed, oil life, engine hours, tire pressure and more.
Safety Features
The Express Passenger Van comes with comprehensive safety and security features to protect passengers before, during and after a collision. All Passenger Vans are equipped with head curtain-side air bags to provide a higher level of protection in the event of a side impact or a vehicle rollover. The Chevy Express Passenger Van breaks new ground in the segment by offering head-curtain side-impact air bags as a standard feature. Shoulder belts for center seats, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, and StabiliTrak are also standard. Enhanced Technology Glass (ETG) is standard on 2500 and 3500 Express Passenger Van models.
*Based on 2011 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008 .Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
