What’s New?
The Express full-size van enters 2007 with a base engine power increase; the 295-hp Vortec 5300 5.3-liter V-8 engine is now standard on 1500 Passenger Van models, having replaced the base V-6 offered in 2006. This engine is also available in an environmentally friendly FlexFuel E85 version, capable of running on ethanol fuel or a mix of ethanol and gasoline. Also, the 2500 (3/4-ton) Passenger Van has been discontinued.

Overview
Chevrolet has offered a full-size van for more than 40 years, filling a consumer niche that demands the ultimate in passenger and cargo volume. Although often used in commercial applications, Express vans are also popular among those desiring conversion-van configurations.

The 2007 Express is available in Passenger Van, Conversion Van, Work Van, and Cutaway Van (commercial only) models, in both regular (135-inch) and extended (155-inch) wheelbase lengths. Passenger Vans come in two series: light-duty (half-ton) 1500 or heavy-duty (1-ton) 3500, while Work Vans add a (3/4-ton) 2500 series to the lineup. Conversion Vans are available in only 1500 and 2500 models. All models offer all-wheel drive as an option to the standard rear-wheel-drive system. Passenger models offer 8-, 12-, and 15-passenger seating configurations and come in two trim levels: LS and LT. LS models are popular for fleet service so standard equipment is pretty basic: intermittent wipers, air-conditioning, an AM/FM stereo, and a theft-deterrent system. LT models are more family oriented and include rear air conditioning and heating, cloth upholstery, power windows and door locks, cruise control, and a tilt steering wheel. Customers desiring more features can opt for alloy wheels, power front seats, and an upgraded audio system with an in-dash, 6-disc CD changer.

In addition to the new 5.3-liter engine, Chevrolet offers an optional 6.0-liter Vortec 6000 that delivers 300 hp and 360 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines come with a 4-speed automatic transmission equipped with Tow/Haul, a feature that reduces the frequency of transmission shifts when pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load. Work Vans also offer a diesel engine option.

The Competition
The Chevrolet Express competes in the Large Van segment, which consists of four models. Buyers in this segment look for comfort, performance, and quality, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Avoider Study^SM and the Escaped Shopper Study.^SM

The top sellers in the segment during calendar year 2006, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,SM were the Ford E-Series (180,457 units sold), Chevrolet Express (123,195), and GMC Savana (29,973). The Chevrolet Express’ 123,195 sales in 2006 represent a decrease of 3.4 percent compared to the previous year. Other models offered in the Large Van segment include the Dodge Sprinter.