2008 Chevrolet Express

2008 Chevrolet Express
#2

in Passenger Vans

Based on analysis of 17 Express reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $27,075 - $32,219
Invoice: $24,774 - $29,481
MPG: 12 City / 16 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores
Overall:6.9
Performance:6.8
Exterior:6.7
Interior:6.9
Safety:NA
Reliability:7.0
Pros
  • Numerous configurations and engine options
  • Can seat up to 15 passengers
  • Side access doors make loading items or passenger entry easy
  • Good towing capacity
Cons
  • Stark interior features for the base trim

Chevrolet Express - What the Auto Press Says

The 2008 Chevrolet Express ranks 2 out of 3 Passenger Vans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Express, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Express' powertrain options and staggering seating capabilities are standouts among passenger vans, but it doesn't offer many standard interior features.

Long a favorite of tradesmen and shuttle services, the 2008 Chevrolet Express continues to stay true to its working van roots. Available in 1500, 2500, 3500 and 3500 EXT models, it can also be configured as a work or passenger van. And although it lacks the bells and whistles that some of its competitors have incorporated, Car and Driver notes it's still "useful for carrying lots of stuff or people." But the Express has other attributes to recommend it. It can seat up to 15 passengers, provides six different engine options and offers configurations for work or personal use.

The Express shares its platform with the GMC Savana, and comes in three model types -- the Work and Cutaway vans and the Passenger van. The Express passenger van has two trims, the base LS and the LT.

  • "Bigger than a minivan and shaped like the box the Uplander came in, the Chevrolet Express offers a robust powertrain range, unparalleled seating, and storage-unity capacity." -- Automobile Magazine
  • Following a redesign in 2003, Motor Trend editors report "most notable is its long list of surprising new features, including such industry firsts as all-wheel drive models an optional left-hand side hinged entry/load door that's sure to please even the most active family, church group, or business/fleet owner." -- Motor Trend

Express Performance - 6.8 (Mediocre)

The Chevrolet Express isn't fun or easy to maneuver, but test drivers find its driving dynamics are adequate among passenger vans. Continue with our full Performance Review to find out more about how the Express behaves on the road, or to read specifics on its towing capacity. continue

Express Exterior - 6.7 (Mediocre)

The Express' exterior won't win any beauty contests, but neither will any van from its class. But many give the van kudos for its easy access. In addition, Carsdirect.com notes, "if a box can be called aerodynamic, then the new Chevys are aerodynamic." Check out our full Exterior Review to learn about design differences between Express trims. continue

Express Interior - 6.9 (Mediocre)

With a wide variety of seating options and easy-to-use controls, the 2008 Express' functional cabin provides all that's needed for its class. Automobile Magazine writes, "Look, it's a work truck. The controls are straightforward, the materials -- hard plastics and subdued cloth, mostly -- are decent, and fit and finish are fine." Continue with our full Interior Review for information on seating configurations that range from two to 15 passengers. continue

Express Safety - NA

Although the 2008 model has not been tested, the 2007 Chevy Express did very well in government crash tests. Check out our Safety Review to learn about the Express' standard safety features. continue

Express Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2008 Chevrolet Express reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Express has a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, the same as other Chevy vehicles. Our full Express Reliability Review provides additional coverage information. continue

Review Last Updated: 5/2/08