2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 Diesel Trim Overview

Stick a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 engine in the 2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 and behold the Express Cargo 2500 Diesel. This full-size, three-quarter-ton, 2-passenger work van sports, in addition to the big diesel, 270.4 cubic feet of cargo area, standard 16-inch steel wheels, vinyl front bucket seats, rear swing-out cargo doors and a passenger-side access door. Then there are the basics such as air conditioning, a trip computer, two speakers (but no standard audio system) and phone pre-wiring.

Though the Express Cargo lineup is strictly business, a plethora of available features can turn this plain van into a tolerably comfortable and sharp-looking ride, not to mention a formidable hauling machine. For 2012, the Express Cargo 2500 Diesel can be equipped with the Express Access Package, boasting side bins with remote-opening doors, remote engine start and keyless entry. The Enhanced Lighting Package adds upgraded dashboard and cabin lighting, with the Chrome Appearance Package sporting a wealth of exterior chrome accents. The Convenience Package, meanwhile, puts power-adjustable outside mirrors, power windows and door locks in the cabin, with the Power Package(s) adding heated, turn-signal-integrated mirrors. Standalone options include a heavy-duty locking rear differential, beefed-up rear axle ratios and a heavy-duty trailer hitch with wiring, as well as cruise control, cloth upholstery, power-adjustable driver’s seat, tilt-wheel steering, a driver’s-side rear access door, Bluetooth-integrated OnStar Directions and Connections that also features emergency services and, finally, a single-CD player with AM/FM stereo.

Its 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 powerplant endows the rear-wheel-drive-only (RWD) 2012 Express Cargo 2500 Diesel with 260 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque via a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. Expect a maximum of 10,000 pounds of towing capacity, with mileage estimated at 10 mpg city/16 highway.

Safety-wise, the 2012 Express Cargo 2500 Diesel boasts standard 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, and front head airbags, all complemented by daytime running lights, dusk-sensing headlights and a vehicle antitheft system.