Chevrolet’s carryover entry in the full-size passenger van segment, the Express is available in ten trims with one of three engines, in either rear- or all-wheel drive. Half-ton 1500 versions come in the standard 135-inch wheelbase, while three-quarter and full ton 2500 and 3500 versions are available with the extended 155-inch wheelbase and can carry up to fifteen people, as opposed to a twelve-passenger capacity for the standard.

RWD 1500s are powered by a 264-hp, 3.6-liter V6, while AWD versions get a 301-hp, 5.3-liter V8. The 2500 and 3500s additionally have the option of a 6.0-liter, 319-hp V8, with all engines excepting the V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The V6 instead gets a six-speed automatic and is rated at 16/24 mpg. The 5.3-liter is E85 friendly and has an EPA mpg rating of 13/16. No estimates have yet been released for the 6.0-liter engine. Additionally, the 1500 is available in AWD configuration, which doesn’t negatively affect mpg ratings.

With a 31-gallon fuel tank, the Express can go almost 550 miles between stops, perfect for the long haul. Dual rear swinging cargo doors and the choice of either sliding or 60/40 doors on the passenger side make for easy entry and exit, and regular wheelbase trims have the option of additional 60/40 doors on the driver’s side as well. Rear bench seats can be removed for customization.

All Express trims come with antilock brakes and antiskid, and dual front and side curtain airbags. NHTSA ratings have not yet been released for 2009, but as this is a carryover year, 2008’s ratings of five stars excepting rollover, with three stars, can be applied.

A wealth of optional equipment is available to customize the passenger van to your needs, including air-conditioning, remote release access panels to replace side windows, a CD player, powered and heated mirrors with embedded turn signals, LSD, a fuel-operated auxiliary heater, and a heavy-duty alternator.