2006 Chevrolet Express: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A new diesel engine option marks 2006 for Chevrolet's cargo vans. Express and the GMC Savana share the same basic design and come in passenger and cargo models. Half-ton Express 1500s come only in regular length. Three-quarter-ton 2500s and one-ton 3500s come in regular or extended length. All versions have rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on 1500s. All models have two swing-open rear cargo doors and, on the passenger side, either 60/40 hinged doors or a sliding door. Optional on all models are the 60/40 doors on the driver side. Regular-length passenger vans seat up to 12, extendeds up to 15. Front seats are buckets; others are benches, which can be removed. Cargo models have front buckets along with metal side and rear panels in place of windows.

A 195-hp V6 engine is standard. Three gasoline V8s of 285, 295, and 345 hp are offered. Newly optional on 2500 and 3500 cargo models is a 250 hp turbodiesel V8. All Express vans have a 4-speed automatic transmission. ABS is standard. GM's Stabilitrak traction/antiskid control is standard on passenger models, unavailable on cargo versions. No side airbags are offered.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Full-size vans are holdovers from a long-gone era. They are truck-based boxes on wheels that can carry up to 15 passengers or loads of cargo. Though they aren't very fuel efficient, they offer vast cargo holds and are often the choice for contractors and airport shuttle services.

Our Best Buys are the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana. Our Recommended pick is the Ford Econoline.