EDMUNDS.COM 2004 CHEVROLET EXPRESS
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
The Express (and its twin, the GMC Savanna) is pretty much the only game in town if you''re looking for a full-size van that doesn''t look and drive like it was designed two decades ago.
Pros
Strong powertrains, dual-passenger access doors, multiple wheelbase and passenger configurations, optional all-wheel drive.
Cons
Plasticky interior, handling still awkward despite improvements.
What''s New for 2004
Changes are minimal for 2004. An assist handle is now installed in the front passenger area. The driver-side visor will no longer include an illuminated mirror.
Overview
Introduction:
Originally introduced in 1965, Chevrolet''s full-size van has since undergone only one complete redesign. Constant improvements throughout the ''70s, ''80s and ''90s kept it somewhat up to date, but not until a full redesign in 1995 did the Express become a legitimately modern vehicle. A new exterior look, new engines, extended body styles and improved ergonomics made the previous Express hard to overlook when compared with Ford''s aging Econoline. Last year''s changes to Chevy''s full-size van didn''t constitute a complete redesign, but the Express did benefit from a wider selection of V8 engines, the first-time availability of all-wheel drive, upgraded brakes, a stronger frame and various interior improvements -- all of which went a long way toward making it safer and more capable than ever before.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The standard wheelbase (135-inch) Express comes in half-ton, three-quarter-ton and one-ton configurations, while the extended wheelbase version (155-inch) requires either three-quarter-ton or one-ton running gear. There are two trim levels: base and LS. Base models are geared toward fleet service so standard equipment is limited to air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo and a theft-deterrent system. The more livable LS models include rear-seat climate controls, power windows and door locks, cloth upholstery, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, keyless entry and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Optional equipment includes power driver and front passenger seats, the OnStar communications system and an upgraded audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer.
Powertrains and Performance:
Express vans offer a choice of four power plants and all-wheel drive. The standard engine on two-wheel-drive half-ton models is a 4.3-liter V6 rated at 200 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. A 5.3-liter V8 with 285 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque is standard on all-wheel-drive half-tons and optional on two-wheel-drive versions. Three-quarter-ton models come standard with a 4.8-liter V8 rated at 270 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque. A 6.0-liter V8 rated at 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque is standard on all one-ton Express vans and optional on three-quarter models. All half-ton models use a four-speed automatic transmission, while three-quarter-ton and one-ton models get a heavy-duty version. The maximum trailer towing capacity on half-ton models is 6,400 pounds. Standard wheelbase three-quarter-ton models can tow up to 9,900 pounds while extended wheelbase versions are limited to 7,300 pounds. Standard wheelbase one-ton vans can tow up to 9,800 pounds, and extended-wheelbase one-ton vans max out at 9,400 pounds.
Safety:
All Express vans now have four-wheel antilock disc brakes. Light-duty models (GVW less than 8,600 pounds) feature a front-passenger sensing system that will deactivate the front airbag if it senses a small child sitting up front. Heavy-duty models use a manual airbag deactivation switch for the front passenger.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The interior is built for pure functionality, and while it may not be pretty, it sure gets the job done. All controls are simple to use and well within reach of the driver, but the footwells remain as cramped as ever. Buyers can opt for 60/40-split driver-side doors for easier passenger access to the rear seats. The standard configuration seats 12, with 8- or 15-passenger arrangements also available, depending on which model you choose.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
A reinforced frame, larger sway bars, rack-and-pinion steering (half-ton models only) and standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes give the Express a leg up on the competition when it comes to ride and handling. Although Chevy''s van is still far from nimble, it''s a better choice for day-to-day driving than Ford''s aged Econoline. And with three strong V8 engines to choose from, merging and passing maneuvers come easily, even when you''re hauling a heavy load.
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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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