2013 Chevrolet Express 1500 OVERVIEW

In 1996, Chevrolet replaced its aging Vandura cargo and passenger vans with the more modern Express. The Express 1500 is the smallest van in the lineup, and a favorite with plumbers, electricians and others who do on-site work. The 2013 Express carries over from 2012 with a few new options: a rearview camera, rear parking assistant and navigation system.

When purchased as a passenger van, the Express comes in LS or LT trim. Both feature a 5.3-liter V-8 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 334 pound-feet of torque. The LS comes with air conditioning, vinyl seating and an AM/FM stereo; the LT adds cloth seating, keyless entry and cruise control.

Buyers of Express cargo vans choose from two trim levels: Work Van and Upfitter. The former is just as basic as it sounds, with a 195-horsepower 4.3-liter V6, vinyl seats and air conditioning; the latter adds the 5.3-liter V8, power heated mirrors and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system.