Chevrolet Express Cargo

The 2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo is a proven utility vehicle that holds its own when it comes to competitive pricing and strong tow ratings. There's something to be said about a tried-and-true model. But there's no getting around the fact that this van is old.

To its credit, Chevrolet has been making constant tweaks. Most notable for the 2021 Express Cargo models is the new 6.6-liter V8 engine. It makes a stout 401 horsepower and replaces the previous 341-hp V8. Whether you've got a heavy payload in back or you're pulling a big trailer, the Express will likely be up to the task.

Unfortunately, the Express lacks the more nimble maneuvering, improved fuel efficiency, and smarter use of interior space of today's crop of modern vans such as the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster. Nor does it offer a high-roof option or available all-wheel drive, so it's hard to consider the Express as anything but a decent choice for a no-frills commercial vehicle.

Which Express Cargo does MatoCar recommend?

Choosing the right Express Cargo van will depend entirely on your needs. If you need to carry a heavy payload, opt for the 3500 model. We recommend the V8 engine if you will be towing often. If fuel economy is a priority, consider the four-cylinder diesel. Finally, if maximizing cargo space is required, then opt for the long wheelbase.

The 2021 Chevrolet Express Cargo is a work vehicle designed to meet the needs of contractors, plumbers, electricians and other workers who need to haul bulky or heavy cargo and tow heavy loads. A single trim is offered in one- to five-passenger seating configurations, leaving the rest of the van body available for cargo. If transporting people is a priority, consider the Express Passenger van, which can seat up to 15. It is reviewed separately on MatoCar.

The Express Cargo has two payload configurations (2500 and 3500) that determine how much weight you can carry and two wheelbases that enable the Express Cargo to accommodate a variety of needs.

The Express' engine lineup includes three offerings:

A standard 4.3-liter V6 (276 horsepower, 298 lb-ft) paired to an eight-speed automatic
An available 6.6-liter V8 (401 hp, 464 lb-ft) matched to a six-speed automatic
An available turbocharged 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder engine (181 hp, 369 lb-ft) with an eight-speed automatic

As a spartan work vehicle, the Express Cargo comes with only the most basic features. Highlights include:

Air conditioning
Onboard Wi-Fi hotspot (via GM's OnStar communication service)
Power windows and locks
Vinyl upholstery
Two-speaker audio system with an auxiliary jack
Rearview camera

Available options include:

Bluetooth
Keyless entry and remote start
Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Forward collision warning (alerts you of a possible collision with the car in front)
Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)

Other option packages allow owners to customize the Express Cargo to suit their business needs.