2011 Chevrolet Express in Joliet, IL - $15,929

Engineered to work hard, the full-frame G-Series Chevrolet Express van is designed to carry impressive quantities of cargo. Available in two different wheelbases and G1500 (half-ton), G2500 (three-quarter ton) or G3500 (one-ton) models, the Express is the last word in the light-duty transport. For 2013, Express adds the following optional equipment to its impressive roster: rear vision camera, ultrasonic rear park assist, and navigation radio.

Likewise, the Express Cargo Van boasts an extensive roster of power choices for almost every situation. Engine choices include: 4.3L V6 (LU3), 4.8L V8 (L20), 5.3L V8 (LMF), 6.0L V8 (L96) and the 6.6L Duramax V8 turbo-diesel (LGH). The LGH diesel is B20 biodiesel capable. To meet more stringent emissions requirements, the LGH Duramax was designed with a robust EGR cooling system, along with revised turbocharger tuning that helps enhance EGR performance. It also has a large-capacity selective catalytic reduction system. In fact, the engine features the latest in emission control technology, making it the cleanest Duramax engine ever produced.

Torque for the engines is delivered to the pavement through the Hydro-Matic 4L60 four-speed automatic or the robust Hydra-Matic 6L90 heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is an available option.

On the road, the truck is very easy to maneuver, even in tight spots. The stout, full-frame underpinnings permit the application of tried and true suspension hardware -- independent short/long arm (SLA) with coil springs and a 30-mm stabilizer bar in the front; two-stage, semi-elliptic multi-leaf springs and semi floating axle in the rear.

Inside, the Express features modern instrumentation which includes a Driver Information Center that provides drivers with a wealth of information, including instructions to replace the fuel filter, clean the exhaust filter and service the air conditioning system; warnings that the transmission is hot, traction control is disengaged, the fuel level is low and a vehicle theft has been attempted; reminders that a turn signal has been left on, the gas cap has not been properly tightened and that the vehicle's top speed is limited.

Access in and out of the Express is easy. A wide, low step-in is built into all door openings. Double doors open wide at the right side and rear to facilitate loading of both passengers and cargo.

Also, an industry-first 60/40-split optional left-hand side-hinged door provides the segment's most flexible loading capability. It offers complete driver's side access to the cargo area, making loading and unloading cargo easy.

Dimensions & specifications

Regular wheelbase

Wheelbase: 135.0; overall length: 224.0; width: 79.2; height: 83.7 (81.5) G2500/3500

Extended wheelbase

Wheelbase: 155.0; overall length: 244.0; width: 79.2; height: 82.8

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 4.3L V6 – 195 hp at 4,600 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm; 4.8L V8 – 280 hp at 5,200 rpm and 295 lbs-ft of torque at 4,600 rpm; 5.3L V8 - 310 hp at 5,200 rpm and 334 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm; 6.0L V8 - 324 hp at 4,600 rpm and 373 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; 6.6L V8 turbo-diesel – 260 hp at 3,100 rpm and 525 lbs-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed automatic; six-speed automatic

Cargo capacity: regular wheelbase: 239.7 cu. ft; extended wheelbase: 284.4 cu. ft.

Payload capacity: 4,187 lbs.

Towing capacity: 10,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability control, battery run-down protection, daytime running lights, side-impact door beams, full-size spare tire, tire pressure monitoring system and PASS-Key III theft deterrent system.

Optional safety features include: Bluetooth hands-free phone system, OnStar communications system, dual side-curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, heavy-duty locking rear differential, rear vision camera, ultrasonic rear park assist, and navigation radio.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2013 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van starts from $25,750 for the G1500 upto $43,405 for the G3500 extended diesel model. Destination charges add $995.