2003 Chevrolet Express Cargo Review and Specs

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

With the addition of new engines and features, the Express (and its twin, the GMC Savanna) is pretty much the only game in town if you're looking for a full-size van that doesn't look and drive like it was designed two decades ago.

Pros

Strong powertrains, unique access doors, multiple configurations, optional all-wheel drive.

Cons

Plasticky interior, handling still awkward despite improvements.

What's New for 2003

The Express Cargo van gains numerous improvements for the '03 model year. Under the hood, the Express now features GM's lineup of powerful Vortec engines, from the base 200-horsepower V6 all the way up to the hard-charging 300-hp 6.0-liter V8. All-wheel-drive models are also available for the first time, and all Express vans get four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. Driver-side 60/40 access doors and swing-up access panels have also been added as an option along with revised front-end styling, larger stabilizer bars and a stronger frame. Inside, the Express gets redesigned seats, improved lighting and ventilation systems and dual-stage airbags on all light-duty versions.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

Haul Away!

Written by: Matt on 02/22/2008

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating


Performance:	7	Fun-to-Drive:	9	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	7	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	6	Exterior Design:	9

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 Rwd 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)

Review

Bought van used in 06 w/ very low mileage. Ample space and hauling capacity. Great, modern look for a work van. 4.8 V8 is reliable as they come, but underpowered for a van this size, especially if you carry a massive amount of equipment as I do. Then again, these vans are made for hauling, not speed. I will buy another Express in the future, but instead go w/ the larger 6.0L engine.

Favorite Features

Seats are surprisingly comfortable, but you'll still bounce around w/ out a full load. Still a truck.

Suggested Improvements

Larger V8 should be standard, especially for the 2500 and above.

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Chevy Express Van

Written by: Tim Haigler on 09/19/2007


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	6	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	8	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	9	Exterior Design:	9

2003 Chevrolet Express Cargo 1500 Rwd 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)

Our company operates a fleet of delivery vans in 1/2 to 1 ton ratings. Our oldest (2003) Chevy 1500 van now has over 260000 miles in which time we have replaced the water pump, and alternator, and a pinion seal. That's it. No brake pads / rotors or any other part other than oil, filters, and tires. These new (2003-2005) vans have performed far better than the Fords and older GM vans in terms of reliability, gas mileage, and tire mileage. The handling and brake performance is a tremendous improvment over the other vehicles in our fleet. We often operate high mileage vans but none have been as trouble free and the new GM vehicles. They are all have the 5.3 engines and 3.73 gears. Good Job.

Engine power, brakes, handling, reliability, and very low maintence. No oil use, no fluid leaks and reasonable fuel mileage. No excuses.

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

Work Horse

Written by: Dave` on 03/16/2004


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	6	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	9	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	5	Exterior Design:	10

2003 Chevrolet Express Cargo 3500 Rwd 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 4A)

Awesome power, good handling, interior cargo space is the largest I've seen. I'm a general contractor and after install shelving units and cabinets from American Van then loading app. 1800 pounds of tools I saw no difference in performance. A great van for the service industry.

Cab storage space from the console to the large door pockets. And the automatic disconnect when you leave the dome light or headlights on, no more trying to get a jump start at the end of the day.

Stronger detents in the rear doors, A gust of wind and "Watch Out" I've had these doors come around and nail other vehicles and myself on numerous occasions. Side cargo doors do not stay in the full open postion, they swing back close about 10 degrees.

Chevy Express Cargo Van

Written by: polecat on 11/03/2003


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	7	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	10	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	6	Exterior Design:	10

2003 Chevrolet Express Cargo 3500 Rwd 3dr Ext Van (6.0L 8cyl 4A)

Initial problem with power steering. At 60000 miles brake cylinder leak. Terrible alignment problems with heavy loads

easy access to cargo area

make tilt and cruise standard.

WOW...NICE ROAD MACHINE

Written by: craftsman on 07/08/2003


Performance:	9	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	9	Exterior Design:	10

What a DREAM to drive!..Quiet, Roomy, and really smoothe handling on just about any type of road surface. I got the base model and really don't miss all the bells and whistles I had on my old Jeep Grand Cher LTD. Had it 3 months now w/3000k miles and am completely satisfied with it. Great for my construction work (handling equipment and building materials.) 6 cyl gets good mileage at 20 mpg on the interstate. Solid and well-built! Still getting use to backing up in it though...

roominess for cargo and occupants, swing around rear doors, style(interior and exterior) very comfortable seats.

More interior room needed for driver's LEFT foot. Need to increase driver and passenger door travel when fully opened.

2003 Chevrolet Express Cargo Consumer Ratings & Reviews