EDMUNDS.COM 2004 CHEVROLET ASTRO CARGO
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
If you need a small utility van that''s tough enough to handle day after day on the job site, the Astro is about the only game in town.
Pros
Big-van capacity, small-van package; available all-wheel drive; high-towing ability.
Cons
Engineered in the early ''80s, iffy crash test scores, cramped front footwells.
What''s New for 2004
There are no significant changes for 2004.
Overview
Introduction:
The Astro has enjoyed a continuous run since its introduction in 1985. With its truck-based body-on-frame construction, the Astro has earned a reputation as an extremely tough and capable minivan that has made it the choice of utility fleets across the country. Available with a gutsy 4.3-liter V6 engine since 1986, the Astro boasts a higher tow rating than most minivans. It was also one of the first minivans to offer all-wheel drive when that feature debuted in 1990. Although bigger than most other minivans, the Astro''s older design results in an interior that feels less spacious than it really is. Couple that with only minor design revisions in its 17-year lifespan and it''s easy to see how it got left behind by more modern competition. The fact remains, however, that if you''re looking for a minivan that can do double duty as a tow vehicle or work truck, the Astro is just about the only game in town.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
As one of the preferred choices of utility companies nationwide, Astro cargo vans are no-frills strippers ready to accept whatever tools and equipment you need on the job. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, a cloth headliner, multiple cupholders, full interior lighting, two power outlets and an AM/FM stereo. The options list includes features like power windows and door locks, cruise control, a rear auxiliary heater, keyless entry and an upgraded audio system with four speakers and a CD player.
Powertrains and Performance:
A 190-horsepower, 4.3-liter V6 is the only engine available, sending power through a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Standard rear-wheel drive allows the Astro to boast a maximum towing capacity of 5,700 pounds. A full-time all-wheel-drive system is optional, but it drops the maximum towing capacity to 5,500 pounds. This system transfers power to the front wheels when it detects rear-wheel slippage for maximum traction in adverse weather situations.
Safety:
All Astro vans now come standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Astro three out of five stars for protection of the driver in a frontal crash and four stars for the front passenger. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Astro "Poor," the lowest of four rankings, after administering its frontal offset crash test.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
With only minor changes since its debut in 1985, the Astro interior is dated-looking to say the least. Overall interior room is generous, with 170 cubic feet of total cargo space, but small front footwells make the driver and front passenger feel more cramped than in most minivans and full-size vans.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Taller than many of its rivals, the Astro van is admittedly more trucklike in temperament, but delivers a pleasant highway ride with competent handling. The 4.3-liter V6 engine provides plenty of thrust down low, but it runs out of breath quickly.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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