2013 Chevy Express 3500 LS

Rear park assist, a backup camera, and navigation radio (the backup camera displays on the nav screen in vehicles so equipped, not in the rearview mirror) have been added to the options list for 2013.

Although the Express can be converted into an extralarge family hauler, the truth is that full-size vans have for some time been relegated to a life of labor. This is no bad thing, though, because the Express is an indispensable workhorse that can be configured to suit almost any need. There are five engine choices, three trims, two lengths, rear- or four-wheel drive, and light-duty (1500) and heavy-duty (2500, 3500) models. Although light-duty models have to make do with an archaic four-speed transmission, HD models get a fairly modern six-speed automatic, helping fuel economy slightly. The Express’s fully boxed frame means that it’s a superior towing vehicle—even light-duty models are capable of towing 6200 pounds. Interior accommodations are spartan at best, and driving dynamics are what you’d expect from a van that is meant primarily for carrying stuff rather than people. This may come as a shock, but the full-size-van segment grew last year with the introduction of Nissan’s NV. It’s more refined, comes with a wider selection of options, and is now available as a passenger van, so it competes even more directly with the offerings from GM and Ford. We hope Chevy takes a good look at the NV and decides to improve the Express’s creature comforts and driving dynamics.