Stretch the standard-size 2011 Chevrolet Express LS 3500 out and beget the LS 3500 Ext. This lengthy full-size van can accommodate up to 15 passengers or 237.3 cubic feet of cargo inside its 20-plus feet of overall length (with a 155-inch wheelbase), though cabin amenities are a tad scarce. Outside this huge hauler features standard 16-inch steel wheels, rear privacy glass, and opening rear quarter windows. Inside, look for standard vinyl upholstery, front bucket seats, air conditioning, OnStar Directions and Connections, and an AM/FM radio with two speakers. The LS 3500 Ext. can be optioned up to include heavy-duty towing equipment, a heavy-duty rear locking differential, remote engine start, sliding side cargo doors, rear driver’s-side passenger door, power accessories, heated outside mirrors, power-adjustable front seats, and Bluetooth wireless communications.
Standard safety features for this super-size van include, besides its sheer bulk, four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, and four-row head curtain airbags. Further standard safety equipment includes daytime running lights, OnStar collision and airbag deployment alerts, and dusk-sensing headlights. Safety options include turn-signal-integrated mirrors.
Powering the 2011 Express LS 3500 Ext. is a standard 6.0-liter Flex Fuel V8 engine with variable valve timing. With the standard six-speed automatic transmission, this potent V8 bangs out 323 hp and 334 lb-ft of torque to the tune of 11/16 mpg on regular unleaded gas and 8/12 with E85 ethanol-based fuel. Towing, meanwhile, is maxed out at 9,700 pounds.
