2008 Chevrolet Uplander
in Minivans
Based on analysis of 17 Uplander reviews and test drives.
Chevrolet Uplander - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Chevrolet Uplander ranks 8 out of 8 Minivans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Uplander, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2008 Uplander does not rank highly because reviewers are mostly lukewarm about its offerings. The interior gets the most praise because of its high-tech features and the recently improved engine is well reviewed, but the Uplander's SUV-ish appearance has reviewers divided. Ultimately, most feel that the vehicle is outclassed by its competition.
Reviewers aren't very enthusiastic about the 2008 Chevrolet Uplander, a minivan that has never risen to the quality level of its competition and that will probably be relegated to the automotive graveyard after this model year. Most reviewers fall back on praising its interior, which Chevrolet has blessed with an uncommonly large array of electronic gizmos. What most impresses reviewers is the optional PhatNoise digital media system, which New Car Test Drive calls "one of the coolest things going in minivans."
The improved V6 engine that Chevrolet added to the Uplander in the previous model year also gets good reviews and test drivers feel that it's a substantial improvement over the listless powerplant in earlier models. Reviewers are a bit perplexed, however, by Chevrolet's decision to give the Uplander an SUV-like exterior.
The Uplander comes in two trims, the base LS and the high-end LT. The latter is essentially an upgrade package that adds interior and safety features to the LS. Both are available in extended wheelbase models, though only the LS is available with the regular wheelbase.
- "Overall, the Uplander is certainly a capable driving machine, but it faces tough competition that's frankly better in the dynamics department." -- Automobile Magazine
- "It has been far surpassed in refinement and modernity by the competition, namely Toyota and Honda. Resale is near nil." -- Car and Driver
Uplander Performance - 4.2 (Mediocre)
Test drivers are pleased with the Uplander's upgraded engine, but aren't too thrilled about much else. "The handling, acceleration, and overall performance are vanlike," writes Car and Driver. "Which is to say, not much fun at all." The review continues, "It trails the competition in handling and drivetrain smoothness." The Uplander scores low in its class for its performance attributes. Continue with our full Performance Review to read what auto writers think of the Uplander's optional all-wheel drive configuration. continue
Uplander Exterior - NA
Though the Uplander's unique body style receives mixed reviews, most critics are left unimpressed. Car and Driver explains: "Although GM touts the Uplander as a crossover, any fool can see it's a minivan with a large nose grafted on." Continue with our full Exterior Review to read what other reviewers think of the Uplander's crossover design, or check out our photo gallery. continue
Uplander Interior - NA
Reviewers generally like the interior of the 2008 Chevrolet Uplander. In particular, they like the features, fit and finish, and the instrument layout, though a few find it difficult to reach the third row of seats. New Car Test Drive says that the Uplander "takes care of its passengers in a well-designed, nicely finished interior." Continue with our full Interior Review to learn about the Uplander's cutting-edge entertainment features, including an optional PhatNoise media storage system, or go to the 2008 Uplander Photo Gallery to see pictures of its cabin for yourself. continue
Uplander Safety - 8.1 (Very Good)
The Uplander performs well in government crash tests and comes equipped with plenty of active and passive safety features -- including a Driver Information Center and second-row outboard, seat-mounted, side-impact air bags. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the Uplander's other standard safety features. continue
Uplander Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Chevrolet Uplander 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). Chevrolet offers impressive warranty coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to read about Chevy's other competitive warranties. continue
