2009 Chevy Express Cargo Review
2009 Chevy Express Cargo Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Robust engines, dual passenger access doors, multiple wheelbase and passenger configurations, available all-wheel drive.
Cons
- Cheesy cabin plastics, less interior space than in Dodge's van, no tall-roof option.
What’s new
The 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo receives no significant changes other than an available "fast idle" option for the 6.0-liter V8, which supposedly facilitates the use of accessories while the vehicle is idling.
Edmunds says
As a traditional American full-size work van, the 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo will be a trusty sidekick for working people across the country.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo 1500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$254/mo for Express Cargo 1500
Express Cargo 1500
vs
$314/mo
Avg. Midsize Van
Vehicle overview
In full-size-van years, 13 is on the young side. That's how long it's been since the Chevrolet Express Cargo last received a full redesign, which makes it considerably younger than the hoary Ford E-Series. As such, we're not going to give Chevy a hard time for letting its full-sizer stand pat for this model year. The 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo does just about everything a big work van should do, lacking only the Dodge Sprinter's tall-roof option and superior fuel economy.
There have been numerous updates over the course of this Chevy's life cycle. Notably, '03 saw the arrival of a wider array of V8 engines, available all-wheel drive, upgraded brakes, a stronger frame and various interior improvements. Though the interior materials and switchgear are still nothing to write home about, they did receive some refinements last year. Short of a complete overhaul, the 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo is about as good as the General's full-size van is going to get.
With up to 237.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity -- nearly 100 more than in the typical minivan -- beasts of burden like the Express Cargo are ideal for those who want to ferry around large amounts of stuff without going all out and buying an 18-wheeler. As such, the Express is a logical choice for businesspeople with heavy-duty hauling needs. Bear in mind that the more modern Dodge Sprinter is a superior vehicle in most regards, thanks to its taller roof, better road manners and superior fuel efficiency. It's more expensive, though, so if you don't want to break the bank, the Express Cargo is fully up to the task.
Performance & mpg
The light-duty Chevrolet Express 1500 cargo van comes with a 4.3-liter V6 that produces 195 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Standard on all-wheel-drive 1500s and optional on rear-wheel-drive models is a 5.3-liter V8 that makes 301 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Heavy-duty 2500 models are powered by a 4.8-liter V8 that makes 279 hp (258 in models with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds) and 294 lb-ft of torque. Standard on the 3500 and optional on the 2500 is a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 323 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. Available on both heavy-duty models is a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that produces 250 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. All Express vans come with a four-speed automatic transmission. Trailer towing capacities range from 6,100 to a stout 10,000 pounds, depending on the model and configuration.
Safety
All models have antilock disc brakes as standard equipment. In frontal-impact crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Chevy Express scored a perfect five stars for driver and front passenger protection.
Driving
A robust frame, rack-and-pinion steering (half-ton models only) and standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes give the 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo respectable ride and handling characteristics. With a pair of strong V8 engines to choose from, merging and passing maneuvers are easily accomplished, even when you're hauling a heavy load. As full-size vans go, the Express is pleasant to pilot -- just don't expect it to match the European-style driving dynamics of the Sprinter.
Interior
The Chevy's interior is built for functionality, not fashion. All controls are simple to use and well within reach of the driver, but they're far from stylish. The front footwells remain as cramped as ever. Unlike the Sprinter, the Express Cargo lacks a tall-roof option allows a normal-size person to walk upright in the cargo area. Express Cargo buyers can opt for 60/40-split driver-side doors or a sliding passenger-side door for easy access to the rear compartment. Standard-length vans have a maximum cargo capacity of 204 cubic feet, while extended-length vans check in with a voluminous 237 cubic feet of space.
2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo models
The 2009 Chevy Express Cargo is a full-size van intended primarily for commercial use. The standard wheelbase (135-inch) Express comes in half-ton (1500), 3/4-ton (2500) and 1-ton (3500) configurations, while the extended-wheelbase version (155-inch) is available on the 2500 and 3500 series vans only. Standard equipment on the Express Cargo includes air-conditioning, two seats, a theft-deterrent system and not much else. Among the options are swing-out passenger-side access doors (versus the standard sliding door), a passenger-side sliding door, a rear air-conditioner and heater, power windows and locks, cloth upholstery, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, keyless entry and a CD stereo. The Express can also be outfitted for job-specific cargo configurations.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo.
5 star(56%)
4 star(23%)
3 star(12%)
2 star(6%)
1 star(3%)
34 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.5 out of 5 stars
WOW
wow 360K, 12/17/2009
2005 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 Rwd 3dr Ext Van (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
All I can say is 360K with no troubles. Engine/ trans /brakes/ electrical all exceptionally reliable. I am religious about maintenance and clean fluids which I believe has paid off. Drives great and very comfortable with seat mounted arm rests and cruise. I would consider no other after the service this vehicle has given me. This vehicle is a 2500, 4.8, 480el, semi floating 8 bolt … axle, extended wheel base. It is worked everyday hauling hardwood flooring.
4.25 out of 5 stars
A good van.
Happy Owner, 12/29/2008
2005 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 Rwd 3dr Van (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
For a van it handled well and was very comfortable to drive. Overall excellent reliability. A few glitches in the side door hinges and with a couple of the interior lights. Fuel economy varied dramatically by driving habits. Ranged from 12 to 22 mpg city to highway. Drivetrain reliability was excellent, with minimal expenses for maintenance or repairs in about 50K miles.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Express Van Workhorses
Joe Flash, 02/03/2009
2005 Chevrolet Express Cargo 3500 Rwd 3dr Ext Van (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
I own two express vans that is use for my business, A 99, (170k miles) and 2005, (143k miles) 3500 ext vans. I have owned Ford vans prior to the Chevys. Ford makes a good van but my Express vans have more headroom, (no need for a sprinter van) and are more comfortable and durable. I load a lot of weight on my vans and they handle it without a problem. I think they are quality built. I … have not had any problems with minor things breaking. But, then again, I do not abuse my vehicles. I work them hard, but I also maintain them. I would just like to say that I am very satisfied with my Chevy Express vans.
4 out of 5 stars
Just What I Needed
jbarradale, 12/29/2012
2008 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 3dr Van (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
I finally found a great deal on a cargo van. I was looking to get back into construction, but needed something for tools and equipment. I have been driving it only for a short while, but it even handles well in the snow. I like the space it provides. I have ordered a set of shelves to put into the back.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Chevrolet Express Cargo, so we've included reviews for other years of the Express Cargo since its last redesign.
2009 Express Cargo Highlights
1500
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $24,365 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $254/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 225.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Express Cargo include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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