Driving Impressions

On the road, the Chevy Astro CS was satisfying. Simply put, it performed and drove the way it looked - like a traditional, rear-wheel drive, high-center-of-gravity van. The Astro's performance was adequate during acceleration from standing starts and highway-passing trials. However, the standard 4.3-liter, fuel-injected V6 produced some noise and seemed to limit out at higher speeds. For more muscle, we would recommend the optional central-port fuel injected version of this engine. Parking and steering maneuvers were nearly effortless, thanks to one of the quietest and smoothest power-steering systems we've tested. We were equally impressed with the sureness of the Astro's standard four-wheel, anti-lock brakes, even in near-panic stops. True, there was a little lean in cornering, and a trace of rock and roll when negotiating bumpy roads. But, overall, this roomy vehicle treated us to a soft, comfortable and quiet ride around town and on the highway.

Final Word

Although Chevy isn't going to set many styling or performance benchmarks with the '94 Astro CS, it's still a hard-working, high-riding and reasonably priced alternative to some of the more contemporary minivans. The Extended-Body Astro CS is bigger and roomier than several of its competitors. With its rear-wheel drive and 5,500-pound towing capacity, it's also a good choice for boaters and campers. While we gave it only average marks for fit and workmanship, the Astro CS had major pluses: It delivered a quiet, stable ride and performed consistent on the road.