Used 2011 Chevrolet Express Van Review & Ratings

For nearly forty years, the Chevrolet Express Van has offered large families and small businesses an affordable option for an abundance of passenger seating or plenty of cargo room, without the expense of a big SUV or small bus. It has found its place in the market, and has outlasted competing Dodge and Ford offerings. When only two passengers are riding, there is an amazing 270.4 cubic feet of cargo space. If you have many passengers to transport, up to eight will fit comfortably in the basic model while more can be accommodated in the larger versions. Commonly used for deliveries and mobile workshops (think carpenters and contractors), this van dresses up or dresses down for a variety of purposes.

With both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options available, you can select your van based on the terrain you expect to cover, as well as your climate. The LS 1500 is powered by a 5.3-liter V-8 engine that provides 310 horsepower and 334 pound-feet of torque. This trim offers the best gas mileage, which is certainly not great, returning 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. The LS 2500 model is equipped with a 4.8-liter V-8 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. If you have a serious load to tow and plenty of cargo or passengers to run, you will want to explore the LS 3500 option. This 6.6-liter turbo diesel V-8 engine boats 260 horsepower and a whopping 525 pound-feet of torque. It is capable of towing up to 9,900 pounds, when properly equipped.

Standard safety features on every Chevrolet Express Van include StabiliTrack, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, front and side curtain airbags, child seat anchors, rear door safety locks, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer, electronic brakeforce distribution, post collision safety system, dusk sensing headlamps and tire pressure monitoring. In addition to the standard features, you can add Bluetooth wireless, which is compatible with most phones, offering the added security of hands free cell use while driving. The 2012 Chevrolet Express Van has only been scored on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rollover crash tests at this time, receiving a total of three stars (1 = lowest, 5 = highest).

The ride is about what you would expect from a work van. It is comfortable for what it is, but don't expect to be protected from bumps and potholes, because you will likely feel them. The Chevrolet Express Van only has independent suspension in the front, rather than the front and rear like most Chevy vehicles, so the ride definitely suffers there. Then again, you are likely using this for work, so most expect a bumpy ride along the way!