Forget the typical soccer-mom ride. The 2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo van is a full-size, 2-passenger workhorse featuring a passenger-side access door and rear swing-open cargo door—perfect for the equipment, not so much for the team. Spartan yet accommodating, this big Chevy van boasts 270 cubic feet of payload room, along with standard 17-inch steel wheels, vinyl upholstery, a trip computer and air conditioning. Phone pre-wiring and two speakers, meantime, are the sole standard concessions to entertainment and communications whims.
Options, on the other hand, can make the 2012 Express 1500 Cargo van, if not palatial, at least more in keeping with expected creature comforts for the average driver. The Express Access Package features remote-opening bins for side compartments, remote engine start and remote keyless entry, while the Enhanced Lighting Package adds extra dashboard and cabin lights. The Chrome Appearance Package, meantime, lathers the exterior in chrome, while the Convenience Package throws power windows and door locks into the mix and, combined with the Power Packages, adds to that heated power-adjustable, turn-signal-integrated outside mirrors. Standalone options include a 3.73 rear axle ratio, heavy-duty trailer towing equipment, a locking rear differential, cloth seats, cruise control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, tilt-wheel steering, a single-CD player with AM/FM stereo, Bluetooth-interfaced OnStar Directions and Connections with emergency services and a rear driver’s-side swing-out access door.
Powering the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 2012 Express Cargo 1500 is a 195-hp 4.3-liter V6 engine. Combined with the standard 4-speed automatic transmission, this entry-level van puts out 260 lb-ft of torque, gets an estimated 15 mpg city/20 highway and can tow up to 6,700 pounds when properly equipped.
Look for 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS) in the 2012 Express 1500 Cargo, as well as traction and stability control and front head airbags. Daytime running lights, dusk-sensing headlights and a vehicle antitheft system round out the standard safety features aboard this sizable work van.
9 GOOD DEALS
are available with average savings of $3,181 below market price
