Used 2019 Chevrolet Express 2500 Cargo

The common work van has seen many changes of late, most noticeably to larger, more efficient European platforms. But not the 2019 Chevrolet Express van. Nope, this big workhorse remains unapologetically American in both design and application. In sharp contrast to vans like the Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster and Nissan NV, the Express doesn’t offer an extended-roof option, nor does it offer the option of all-wheel drive like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. What the Express does offer is a long history of service and reliability, a 15-passenger-seating option and the ability to tow up to 10,000 pounds. It also offers more powertrain options than most competitors, including a V6, V8, CNG (compressed natural gas) V8 and a 4-cylinder turbodiesel.

Spending time behind the wheel of a 2019 Chevrolet Express conjures up a nostalgic feeling reminiscent of driving an older pickup truck. The ride can be bouncy at times, although it settles down when the road does the same. The Express’ turning radius isn’t as tight as rival vans from Ford and Ram, and its cornering abilities are far from confidence-inspiring. Those who drive a van for a living won’t find any of these conclusions eye-opening. What matters most is the Express’ strong V8 and diesel-engine options, easily configurable cargo bay and standard-height roof that takes the worry out of accessing areas with low clearance. The Express Passenger van can hold up to 15 people, but its seats lack the safety-oriented head restraints and armrests commonly found on its newer, European-inspired rivals.

Basically a box on wheels, the 2019 Chevrolet Express is designed for one thing: hauling stuff. Whether that stuff is people, cargo or some combination of both, the Express can handle it. Seating configurations range from two to 15 persons with a rear-air-conditioning unit to keep everyone comfortable. One oversight on Chevy’s part is only providing head-curtain airbag protection for the first three rows. For those hauling inanimate objects, the Express can be upfitted to suit just about any occupation, be it built-in tool boxes or unique shelving for a catering service.

Chevy’s Express, in either Cargo or Passenger versions, has been around for years and its shape is a familiar one. It’s a box with rounded corners and is not unattractive; in fact, it looks about as good as might be reasonably expected. Even though the vast majority of Expresses on the road are white, it is actually available in several colors. Exterior differentiations are few, but include sliding or split swing-out side doors and rear doors with or without windows. Obviously, Passenger models have windows along both sides, and a passenger-side sliding door is available on both versions of the van.

6.0-LITER V8
It’s nice to see big V8 power in a van like the Express. While the standard V6 does a pretty good job with medium-hauling duties, when you have 15 people aboard or a cargo bay full of equipment or boxes, the horsepower and torque offered up by the 6.0-liter V8 is a must-have.

DRIVER-ASSIST FEATURES
Driving a van, especially one without windows, always presents challenges. Thankfully, the 2019 Express offers such necessary driver assists as blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning and forward-collision alert.

The 2019 Chevy Express puts function far above frills, but at its most basic does include power windows and door locks and air conditioning. Workmen can finally enjoy some tunes thanks to a standard AM/FM stereo with auxiliary input. Like other GM vehicles, OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity are fitted standard, a boon for operators who need mobile Internet connectivity. Base Express Passenger models include seating for 12 (15 in extended length). All models have stability control, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and dual front airbags. Passenger vans feature side-curtain airbags covering the first three rows.

If you want anything beyond the 4-wheeled transportation-and-cargo module that is the basic 2019 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van, you’ll have to hit the option list. Luckily, it’s pretty long. You can get navigation, Bluetooth, and backup sensors, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning and blind-zone alert, plus the most recent version of OnStar Commercial Link. There are also choices of a larger gasoline V8 or 4-cylinder turbodiesel, standard- or extended-body lengths, and various option packages. Passenger versions start with a higher equipment level than Cargo models, but otherwise the option packages are largely the same.

Standard on the 2019 Express is a 4.3-liter V6 good for 276 horsepower. One step up is the mighty 6.0-liter V8 touting 341 ponies and an impressive 373 lb-ft of torque. There’s also a CNG version of the V8. Finally, there is the optional 4-cylinder turbodiesel that produces a very impressive 369 lb-ft of torque, but only 181 horsepower. Still, as most vans are moving heavy loads at low to moderate speeds, this engine might just be the perfect balance between capability and good fuel economy. All Express vans are powered by their rear wheels and have an automatic transmission, a tested 6-speed unit for the V8 and a newer 8-speed for the V6 and diesel engine. While the gas engines are not as efficient as some rivals, good luck trying to tow 10,000 pounds with anything but an Express.

2.8-liter turbocharged diesel inline-4
181 horsepower @ 3,400 rpm
369 lb-ft of torque @2,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

4.3-liter V6
276 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm
298 lb-ft of torque @ 3,900 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

6.0-liter V8
341 horsepower @ 5,400 rpm
373 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/16 mpg