1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan Review

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Editors' Rating

Not Yet Rated | Read the Model Review

Fuel Economy

19 mpg

The Edmunds.com review of the 1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan is unavailable at this time.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

Durable Van

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 8 Fun-to-Drive: 7 Build Quality: 8
Comfort: 8 Interior Design: 7 Reliability: 9
Fuel Economy: 7 Exterior Design: 4

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

I purchased this van in 2001 with only 50000 km on it. I have put another 160000 on it since then. We have used it as a daily commuter, vacationing vehicle and transport vehicle to help friends and family move. It has seen its share of use and abuse. I have been diligent with regular maintenance, and for the first 207000 km I have had no problems with the motor or transmission. Just recently at 208000 km the intake manifold gasket has started to leak. Over the years I have replaced the water pump, fuel pump, wiper motor, interior fan motor, and driver's seat cushion/chasis. Breaks and tires are the only other things that I have had to dump money into, but hey, nothing lasts forever!

Favorite Features

Power train durability! AC still blowing cold at 210000 km. I'll drive this van into the ground. Wouldn't be surprised if it lasts 300000 km! Way to go Chevy!

Suggested Improvements

There were no head rests on the middle and back row seats. The dustbuster body style wasn't a great choice. I'm sure my kids will be pushing me to sell it once they get their learners license!

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Best car I ever owned

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

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

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

I have owned this mini van since it was new. I am currently considering a new vehicle. I am researching the same car. This car has done everything I have asked of it and then some. It is an extremely versitile vehicle, from hauling 7 people to piles of lumber with seats removed. This car has never left me stranded and the only reason I am considering a new one is mileage.

Favorite Features

Reliability, Handling. Versatility. Fuel Economy.

Suggested Improvements

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Very glad I bought my Lumina 5 years ago

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 9 Fun-to-Drive: 7 Build Quality: 10
Comfort: 7 Interior Design: 8 Reliability: 10
Fuel Economy: 8 Exterior Design: 8

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

5 years ago I saw a 96 Lumina Mini- van.Dark red with the ground effects package. Checked it out and test drove it. I was amazed at the power it had.I think the v6 is 190 hp or so,and it only weighs 3300lbs. It only gets 17mpg around town but I get 25mpg on the highway,with a best of 27.I have driven to Colorado a number of times,with trips to Las Vegas,Phoenix and even a 24 hour drive to Miami and 24 hours back. I drove Phoenix to Albequerque on 1 tank of gas and made it home on 1.That was 1000 miles with one stop! Never had any mech. problems or breakdowns.

Favorite Features

The removable seats and flexible config.With seats out,there is plenty of room to roll out a sleeping bag for camping.And I love the sporty ground effects and solid burgandy paint.Roof rack is handy. I have cartopped a 10ft john boat and trailored a 14ft sailboat at the same time.

Suggested Improvements

I can't suggest any improvements,since chev. went to the venture mini-van in 97. I only wish it cornered as well as it does everything else. But of course it is a mini-van!!!

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short-lived engine

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 8 Fun-to-Drive: 10 Build Quality: 3
Comfort: 8 Interior Design: 7 Reliability: 1
Fuel Economy: 8 Exterior Design: 8

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

I loved this van, but the temperature gauge started going up, so I brought it to a reputable garage, and they told me there were metal filings and antifreeze in the oil and that it needed a new engine. It only had 117,000 miles on it. Because of the design, which makes access to the engine very difficult, it would cost $3000 to repair.

Favorite Features

Drives like a car, Quiet

Suggested Improvements

Build your engines to last!

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Excellent Van

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 9 Fun-to-Drive: 7 Build Quality: 8
Comfort: 8 Interior Design: 7 Reliability: 9
Fuel Economy: 9 Exterior Design: 8

Vehicle

1996 Chevrolet Lumina Minivan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

This van is an all around great family van!

Favorite Features

Great gas milage!

Suggested Improvements

none

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