Introduction
For over three decades, buyers adapted the Chevrolet G-Series chassis for a variety of uses: ambulances, small RVs, box trucks, passenger vans and cargo vans. In 1996, Chevy replaced the aging do-it-all van with the more modern Express -- although it was new, it looked like a restyled G-Series van.
The big boy of the Express lineup – the 3500 model – is relatively unchanged for 2013, having only a few extra optional features: a rearview camera, rear parking assist and navigation.
With a focus on versatility, the Express 3500 can be configured as a passenger van or cargo van, and in two wheelbases: 135 inches and 155 inches. The passenger van comes standard with seating for 12 people; buyers can opt for eight- or 15-passenger seating. The cargo van maximizes utility with two seats up front and a large cargo area in the rear.
The Express 3500 features a standard 4.8-liter V8 that cranks out 280 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. If that’s not enough for you, Chevrolet also offers a 6-liter V8 with 324 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque available, as well as a biodiesel-ready 6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel engine with 260 horsepower and a tow-happy 525 pound-feet of torque.
That these vans are built to haul some serious cargo is made evident by the Express 3500’s max GVWR of 9,900 pounds; maximum conventional towing rating of 10,000 pounds; and 4,394-pound maximum payload rating.
The big van is not without its flaws, however. As customers who need family haulers have turned away from full-size vans, General Motors has whittled the 3500 lineup to a few no-frills trim levels. Sure, you can still get plenty of amenities, but they're now expensive options, rather than part of value-oriented trim level packages.
Which Style To Buy?
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 Work Van
The base Work Van is only available only as a cargo van. Features include a 4.8-liter V8 producing 280 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque; a six-speed automatic transmission; black bumpers with a step pad; daytime running lights; light-tinted glass; a black grille and side-view mirrors; 16-inch steel wheels; air conditioning; two front speakers and the provision required to install your own radio; dual-dome lighting setup; a pair of auxiliary 12-volt power outlets; and vinyl seating.
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 Diesel
The Express 3500 Diesel features a 6.6-liter V8 turbo-diesel unit that produces 260 horsepower and 525 pound-feet of torque. It shares a standard equipment list with the Work Van.
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 LS
The 2013 Express 3500 LS is the base version of the 12-passenger model. Standard features include: a 4.8-liter V8; a six-speed automatic transmission; a black bumper with a rubber step; a black grille and side-view mirrors; 16-inch steel wheels; air conditioning; an AM/FM audio system with two speakers; vinyl flooring and seats; OnStar with six months of free service; a PASS-Key III theft-deterrent system; and a pair of 12-volt auxiliary power outlets.
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 2LS
Building on the LS, an Express 3500 2LS adds: a 6.6-liter V8 diesel engine that produces 260 horsepower and 525 pound-feet of torque.
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 LT
The LT adapts the LS with comfort features that make it better suited for families: chrome bumpers, hubcaps and front grille; dual-composite headlights; remote keyless entry; rear heating and air conditioning; power windows and door locks; cloth seating; color-coded carpeting; a digital compass; and auxiliary lighting.
2013 Chevrolet Express 3500 2LT
The 2LT adds a 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 to the LT, along with dual batteries and a 3.54-to-1 axle ratio.
Best Alternatives
2013 Ford E-350 Super Duty
10,000-pound max towing, more base features and stouter looking, but slightly more money
2013 Nissan NV Cargo NV3500 HD
Super-powerful base V8, standard cloth seats and nice base features, but looks very odd
2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Mercedes-Benz quality and similar max payload, but less towing capacity and massive price tag
2013 GMC Savana 3500
Mechanically identical to the Express, but slightly more expensive and tougher to find GMC dealers