Several front-wheel-drive compact vans have hit the market in recent years, including the Ford Transit Connect and Nissan NV200. They’re developed for buyers who would appreciate the cargo space and versatility of a large, typically rear-drive commercial van, but are put off by the bulk and weight of such a vehicle. A growing number of urban dwellers and small-business owners seem to be heading in that direction nowadays, opting for the easy maneuverability of a compact. They’re also attracted by the compact van’s better gas mileage.
What's New for 2016
All-new for 2015, the City Express is unchanged for the 2016 model year. Chevrolet’s City Express is actually a near-twin of the Nissan NV200, with seating only for the driver and a single passenger.
Choosing Your Chevrolet City Express
The City Express comes in two trim levels: LS and LT. Both use a 2-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 131 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque, coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Fuel economy is estimated at 24 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway. Not many vehicles get almost the same gas mileage in both types of driving.
Payload capacity is rated at 1,500 pounds. Cargo space totals 122.7 cubic feet, measuring 82 inches between the front seats and the rear doors, and 54 inches between the side walls. The fold-down passenger seat can convert into a work table. Center console storage includes a file folder bin. Six airbags are standard.
All City Express vans have front-wheel drive. The turning circle is 36.7 feet. The two trim levels differ mainly by content levels and available options.
Because the monetary difference between the two trim levels isn’t all that great, it might be prudent to select an LT, rather than add options to the base LS model. Foremost competition for the City Express comes from the nearly-identical Nissan NV200, so it makes sense to cross-shop both models before deciding.