2008 Chevrolet Express LS 1500

Seating eight in three rows, the 2008 Chevrolet Express LS 1500 is the half-ton base trim for this rear-wheel-drive utility passenger van. A 5.3-liter, 301-hp V8 rates 325 ft-lbs of torque and is matched to a four-speed automatic with overdrive. It can be configured as a flex-fuel vehicle as well. A 6.0-liter, 323-hp V8 is optional. The 2008 Express LS 1500 rates five stars in frontal impact tests, thanks to dual front-side and side curtain airbags for all three rows and a revised passenger airbag for 2008. Newly standard stability control, four-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control, daytime running lights, and a new tire monitor are also standard. The van rides on 16-inch wheels with all-season tires.

Used mainly as a shuttle van, the 2008 Express LS 1500 can tow up to 6,300 pounds with the optional tow/haul package and gets about 12/16 mpg. It holds 204 cubic feet of storage without the rear seats. Rear barn doors open 180 degrees, and the passenger-side hinged door splits open 60/40. A sliding door is optional. Standard features include air conditioning, a radio, power steering, intermittent wipers, and a tachometer. There are cupholders and power outlets in the front row only. There are lots of options for the 2008 Express LS 1500, including rear air conditioning; a CD player or 6-CD changer; power locks, windows, and mirrors; remote entry; heated mirrors with turn signals; cruise control; power front seats; leather trim for the steering wheel; and cloth seats to replace the standard vinyl ones.