Fifteen people can fit into this extended version of Chevy's rear-wheel-drive passenger van. The 2008 Chevrolet Express LT 3500 Ext features four rows of seats riding on a 155-inch wheelbase (overall length is 244 inches). That's 20 more inches of wheelbase than the regular model offers, and it expands cargo capacity to 236 cubic feet, but reduces towing capacity to 7,400 pounds. The 2008 Express LT 3500 Ext gets its power from a 323-hp, 6.0-liter V8 and four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Fuel economy barely hits the teens. 16-inch wheels with all-season tires keep it on the road. Four-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, stability and traction control, a new tire monitor, halogen lamps, daytime running lights, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for the first three rows earn it five stars in frontal impact tests.
Keeping passengers happy are dual-zone climate control and access through a 60/40-split hinged passenger-side door. A sliding door is optional. Rear doors open barn-like to 180 degrees for easy luggage loading. The LT is the higher-end trim and features a full power setup (windows, locks, mirrors), remote entry, cruise control, tilt steering, a radio, intermittent wipers, a trip computer, compass, cloth upholstery, and a chrome grille. Cupholders are available only in the front row. 6-way power front seats are optional, along with a CD player or changer, wheel-mounted audio controls, heated mirrors with turn signals, and a temperature display. A towing harness can also be added.
