2016 Chevy Express Cargo Review
2016 Chevy Express Cargo Review
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Used Express Cargo for sale
Appraise This CarChevrolet Express Cargo model years
Chevrolet Express Cargo types
- Van
- Diesel
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Robust V8 engines
- hefty towing capacity.
Cons
- Less interior space than newer competitors
- no high-roof option
- low-grade cabin plastics
- poor fuel economy.
What’s new
For 2016, the Chevrolet Express Cargo van gets a few minor upgrades, including standard curtain airbags and D-ring tie-downs, and options like a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and a MyLink infotainment system with navigation.
Edmunds says
The 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo is a willing workhorse for buyers who require the functionality of a full-size van, but more modern competitors could be a better fit for your business.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 3dr Van (4.8L 8cyl 6A) 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 N/A undefined in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
Not EPA tested for Express Cargo 2500
Express Cargo 2500
vs
$314/mo
Avg. Midsize Van
Vehicle overview
The Chevrolet Express cargo van has been around for decades with relatively minimum changes and boasts a familiar set of attributes, including powerful gas and diesel V8 engines, rugged construction and heavy-duty hauling and towing capability. The past few years have seen massive changes to the commercial van segment, however, with all-new and fully modern rivals bringing some special advantages. As such, the 2016 Chevrolet Express cargo van is indeed a relic.
For example, competitors now offer high-roof body styles that facilitate easier loading and unloading, along with more overall cargo space. New aerodynamic shapes and engines also deliver superior fuel economy, which can help lower operating costs and bolster the bottom line. Plus, the introduction of several smaller cargo vans, like the Ford Transit Connect and Chevrolet's own City Express, represents another option many businesses may want to consider.
Among full-size alternatives, the 2016 Ford Transit cargo van is offered with three different gas and diesel engine choices, three different roof heights and two different wheelbases to enable buyers to select a configuration that most closely matches their intended use. The 2016 Ram ProMaster van also offers a high-roof version and two different gas and diesel engines. It's also built on a front-wheel-drive platform that exchanges cargo space and foul-weather traction. The full-size 2016 Nissan NV isn't quite as versatile and lacks a diesel engine option, but does offer a high-roof option and strong V8 power. Lastly, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter stands out for its high quality and multiple available configurations.
The 2016 Chevrolet Express could still work out if all you need is an inexpensive and familiar work van, but overall we recommend going with one of the other full-size van choices.
Performance & mpg
The 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo van is offered with a choice of two gasoline V8 engines and a diesel V8.
First up is a 4.8-liter V8 that develops 285 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. For heavier duty you can step up to a 6.0-liter gasoline V8 that produces 329 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. A compressed natural gas (CNG) version of this engine puts out 282 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both V8s send power to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
When there's serious heavy lifting to do, you can opt for the turbocharged 6.6-liter diesel V8 rated at 260 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque. It, too, is backed by the six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy estimates are not available for these heavy-duty vans, as the EPA doesn't rate vehicles with gross combined weight of more than 6,000 pounds.
When properly equipped, both the Express 2500 and Express 3500 vans have a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. Payload capacities range from almost 3,000 pounds for the 2500 version to 4,145 pounds for the standard-wheelbase 3500.
Safety
The 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo van's list of standard safety features includes antilock brakes, stability control, front side airbags and front side curtain airbags. A rearview camera and rear parking sensors are options, as is OnStar emergency communications, which includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance and stolen vehicle assistance.
Driving
On the road, the 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo handles like the big truck-based vehicle it is. If you plan on using your van for urban deliveries or other situations where room to maneuver is at a premium, we'd suggest looking to the Transit or Sprinter, both of which feel noticeably more nimble.
If it's pure brawn that's most important to you, however, there's a case to be made for the Express. Both the 6.0-liter gasoline and 6.6-liter diesel engines move the big van out smartly, though they manage to consume quite a bit of fuel in the process. From a practical perspective, either engine has the muscle to move heavy loads or tow trailers without putting up a fuss.
Interior
Anyone who's ever set foot inside an old-school cargo van like the 2016 Chevrolet Express will immediately recognize its most glaring shortcoming: the standard roof height that requires you to move around in an uncomfortable crouch. Another throwback is the engine cowling that intrudes into the driver and front passenger footwell, decreasing space and comfort.
Those issues aside, the Chevy Express Cargo's interior is very basic, with familiar gauges and controls. Expected amenities like power mirrors, keyless entry and even cruise control are extra-cost options. Even the addition of new tech features including an available 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and Chevrolet's optional MyLink infotainment system can't do much to bring the interior into the modern era.
The Express' cargo hold does offer a maximum of 239.7 cubic feet of space in standard-wheelbase models, and 284.4 cubic feet in long-wheelbase versions. By comparison, a Ford Transit ranges from 246.7 cubic feet to a whopping 487.3. The Mercedes Sprinter gets even bigger. Side door choices include a standard hinged version and an optional sliding door, both on the curb side of the vehicle. Unlike with the Transit, a driver-side cargo door is not offered.
2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo models
The 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo is a two-seat, full-size van that comes in two load ratings, the 2500 series and 3500 series. Each comes in two wheelbases: a standard wheelbase of 135 inches and an extended 155-inch wheelbase.
Standard equipment on the Express Cargo includes 16-inch steel wheels, 60/40-split swing-out right-side doors, air-conditioning, vinyl upholstery, power windows and locks, six D-ring cargo tie-downs, a 120-volt household-style power outlet, a trip computer and a simple two-speaker sound system with AM/FM radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Major options include 17-inch steel wheels, heated power mirrors, a variety of rear door and window configurations, a towing package, rear parking sensors, keyless entry, cloth upholstery, a six-way power driver seat, front passenger seat delete, a three-person rear bench seat, the Convenience package (cruise control and a tilt-only steering wheel), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote ignition, rear heating and air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, GM's OnStar emergency communications (see Safety section), a USB port added to the standard sound system, satellite radio, a rearview camera and the Chevrolet MyLink system that includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, a CD player, Bluetooth audio, smartphone Internet radio apps, voice controls and a navigation system.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo.
5 star(42%)
4 star(23%)
3 star(19%)
2 star(6%)
1 star(10%)
31 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 2016 Chevrolet Express Cargo, so we've included reviews for other years of the Express Cargo since its last redesign.
2016 Express Cargo Highlights
Van
2500
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $30,595 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 239.7 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Express Cargo include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
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