Chevrolet’s rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 2012 Express Cargo 3500 work van gets a bit more muscle with a 260-hp 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel V8, thus resulting in the Express Cargo 3500 Diesel. This two-passenger one-ton work truck also comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission managing an impressive 525 lb-ft of torque. Expect towing capacity in the range of 10,000 pounds, with max payload in the vicinity of 3,343 pounds. Alas, look for a paltry 10 mpg city/16 highway from this prodigious turbodiesel.
Mighty it may be, but the 2012 Express Cargo 3500 Diesel is, after all, intended as a work vehicle, therefore standard appearance, comfort and convenience features are few. Look for 16-inch steel wheels, vinyl front bucket seats, a trip computer, air conditioning, two speakers and phone pre-wiring to be the only amenities, with a rear swing-out passenger-side access door and rear swing-out doors in back, each for loading cargo.
Options, on the other hand, can make this heavy hauler a bit more comfy and companionable. There is, for instance, the Convenience Package, with power windows, door locks and mirrors, and the available Power Package, adding heat and turn-signal integration to said mirrors. Then there are such goodies as the Chrome Appearance Package, which spiffs up the exterior, and the Express Access Package, which features remote vehicle start, keyless entry and side bins boasting remote-opening doors. The Enhanced Lighting Package, meantime, sports upgraded dashboard and cabin lighting. For some added capability, this hefty hauler boasts an available 3.73 rear axle ratio, heavy-duty trailer-towing equipment and a heavy-duty rear locking differential. Finally, standalone options include cloth upholstery, cruise control, tilt-wheel steering, a driver’s side rear access door, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, Bluetooth-integrated OnStar Directions and Connections with emergency service and a single-CD player with AM/FM stereo.
Safety-wise, the 2012 Express 3500 Diesel sports standard 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, and front head airbags, with daytime running lights, dusk-sensing headlights and a vehicle antitheft system also coming standard.
