2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van

Having been introduced to the US market all the way back 1996, one would expect the 2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van to be a far more improved and very different vehicle to what it was those 25 years ago. However, Chevrolet hasn't even brought this urban hauler past its first-generation form as yet, with only a minor style update all the way back in 2003. Because of this, the Express Cargo Van is often overshadowed by its more modern competitors, most of which supply more car-like handling dynamics for easier maneuverability in urban settings and better fuel economy - both important in such daily errand runners. Automakers have also found ways to boost value and better utilize interior space in their newer cars. So, while the 2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van can haul and tow a fairly good amount of cargo at a time and its price looks good, other cargo vans like the Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit, and even the Mercedes-Benz Metris are superior in just about every regard.

Chevy puts the Express forward with a good selection of engines, including a dependable V6, a pragmatic turbodiesel four-pot, and 401-horsepower powerhouse V8, each empowering the Express with the performance potential it needs to be a decent ute. The Express may be all you need, but you can't ignore the fact that you can get a significant amount more by investing your money elsewhere.

There are three engine options proffered for the 2021 Express Cargo Van - the 4.3-liter 6-cylinder unit being the default option. The motor is apt for the van and produces up to 276 hp and 298 lb-ft of torque, which is modulated by an 8-speed automatic transmission and ceded through to the van's rear-wheel drivetrain. The van is easy to run enthusiastically around town thanks to the V6's low-down torque, but getting up to speed with a full payload onboard can be rather gradual. A 2.8-liter turbodiesel Duramax 4-cylinder engine is offered optionally. With 181 hp and 369 lb-ft at hand, this unit avails the Express with the line's maximum 3,960-pound payload capacity, though at the cost of towing capacity. The best performer in the line and the most powerful in every regard is the 6.6-liter V8 engine, which is rated for 401 hp and 464 lb-ft. It swaps out the 8-speed auto for a 6-speed gearbox.

Most automakers in the US have been keeping their utility vans up to date in terms of styling, construction, and mechanical capabilities. With the Chevrolet Express Cargo Van having not been redesigned or meaningfully updated since 1996, it's really fallen behind its contemporaries in a noticeable way. It just wouldn't make any sense to spend your money here when you could get something far better at the 2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van's price or less.

Yes, all three powertrains Chevy puts forward provide plenty of power and avail the van with a decent enough towing capacity, but most rivals are more interested in being able to haul large payloads and in being able to get around town quickly and with at least a sense of convenience and safety. The 2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van hasn't undergone review for an official safety rating and it comes with barely any driver assists. It has, however, maintained a fairly decent track record for reliability.

However, both the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster cargo vans offer over 100 cubic feet more cargo space than the Express does. They bear more modern designs, too, and a far better selection of standard and optional features that do a lot to improve comfort and convenience, which can really improve morale on those extra-long work days.

If you're looking for a straight-up workhorse that has no frills or distractions, the 3500 WT with its reinforced frame and extended wheelbase is the Express cargo van to go for. This variant offers 319.9 cubic feet of cargo room and can support up to 4,280 pounds of cargo. The 2500 is otherwise the van to go for if you just need a nifty everyday ute for your small business. It's also offered with some desirable options that improve its livability and safety levels. The Safety Package is certainly worth adding., but it requires the V8 engine. It adds a tilting steering wheel column, cruise control, blind-spot alert, and rear parking sensors. If you're going to be doing a lot of driving, you may want to also opt-in the Communications Package, which adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth audio streaming, and SiriusXM radio connectivity.