Boasting 244 inches of overall length and a 155-inch wheelbase, not to mention a potent turbodiesel V8 engine, the 2012 Chevrolet Express Cargo 2500 Ext. Diesel takes toting power and utility to a whole new level. This 2-passenger full-size work van also sports rear barn-door-style cargo access and a passenger-side swing-out access door. It also sports 319.9 cubic feet of cargo area behind the front seats, as well as 16-inch steel wheels, vinyl front bucket seats, a trip computer and air conditioning. Finally, standard phone pre-wiring and a pair of speakers (with no standard audio system) are the main items that sum up much of the rest of the basic delivered equipment.
Options, however, are there for the taking. For 2012, this big workhorse can be equipped with the Express Access Package, with remotely accessible rear side bins, remote engine start and keyless entry, while the Enhanced Lighting Package adds upgraded interior lighting. An available Convenience Package supplies Chevy’s work van with power windows, door locks and outside mirrors, while the accompanying Power Package can include heated and/or turn-signal-integrated mirrors. Additionally, the Chrome Appearance Package loads this hauler’s exterior with, of course, a bunch of chrome accents. Standalone options, meantime, include a heavy-duty rear axle ratio, locking rear differential, heavy-duty trailer-towing equipment and a driver’s side rear access door. Further options include cloth upholstery, tilt-wheel steering, cruise control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth-integrated OnStar Directions and Connections with Emergency Services and a single-CD player with AM/FM stereo.
A standard 260-hp 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 powers the rear-wheel-drive-only (RWD) 2012 Express Cargo 2500 Ext. Diesel, while the standard 6-speed automatic transmission allows a whopping 525 lb-ft of trailer-towing torque. Look for 10,000 pounds of towing capacity, along with 10 mpg city/16 highway for estimated gas mileage.
The standard safety equipment in this oversize workaholic includes 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front head airbags, daytime running lights, dusk-sensing headlights and a vehicle antitheft system.
