1999 GMC Savana 3500

The Chevrolet Express (also known as the GMC Savana) is a series of full-size vans produced by General Motors since 1996. The successor to the Chevrolet G-series van, the Express is produced in passenger and cargo variants. Alongside the standard van body, the line is offered as a cutaway van chassis, which is a chassis cab variant developed for commercial-grade applications, including ambulances, buses, motorhomes, and small trucks. In production for a single generation since 1996,[1] over three million examples of the Express and the Savana have been produced.[2] One of the longest-produced designs in American automotive history, the Express/Savana are rivaled only by the Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Econoline, and Dodge Ram Van for longevity. Since 1995, General Motors has assembled the Express and Savana at its Wentzville Assembly facility (Wentzville, Missouri). Also, since 2017, GM has sourced commercial cutaway-chassis production from Navistar through its Springfield Assembly Plant (Springfield, Ohio).[3][4] Model history Pre-facelift (1996–2002) Express / Savana (1996–2002) Front (Cargo and base, sealed beam) Front (LS, composite headlamps) Side (3500 LS) Rear view, showing taillamps (1998) For the 1996 model year, Chevrolet replaced the G-series Chevrolet Van with the Chevrolet Express (retaining Chevrolet Van for cargo vans). The first all-new design for the General Motors full-size van line since 1971, the model line was offered in passenger-van and cargo-van variants (the latter initially retained the Chevrolet Van name), with GMC replacing the Vandura/Rally with the Savana.[5] Alongside the first substantial redesign of the model line in 25 years, GM predicted substantial growth in the full-size segment through the end of the 1990s.[5] In a major functional change, the front axle was moved forward 10 inches, effectively moving the front wheels out of the passenger compartment; along with improving front legroom, the design allowed a reduction in step-in height (improving access).[6] While sharing the same engine sizes as the previous model line, the size of the engine cover was reduced, further increasing front passenger space.[6] On all vehicles below 8,500 lbs GVWR (1500 and 2500 series), the Express was introduced with standard dual airbags; for 1997, dual airbags were standardized for all versions of the model line.[6][7] Cargo and base models were equipped with a single sealed beam halogen headlamp on each side. The LS trim changed this to a composite headlamp assembly.[8] For 1999, a few minor functional changes were made to the model line. In a more noticeable update, Chevrolet retired the Chevrolet Van nameplate entirely, with the cargo van renamed the Express Cargo Van.[7] Facelift (2003–present) 2006–2010 Chevrolet Express (with left-side passenger doors) 2003–2006 Chevrolet Express 3500 passenger van For 2003, the Express and Savana underwent a mid-cycle revision. Alongside substantial frame and chassis upgrades, the bodywork forward of the windshield was revised.[7] Distinguished by a higher hood line, the newer front fascia (developed as an improved crumple zone[7]) was brought closer in line with the GMT800 full-size pickup trucks introduced for 1999; the model line also introduced a degree of parts commonality between the two model lines.[7] The dashboard underwent a redesign; along with the addition of dual-stage airbags, the interior added multiplex wiring (adding increased functionality to the interior electrical system).[9][10] The Express and Savana offered with 60/40 split panel doors on the passenger-side of the vehicle; in a first (since the Corvair cargo van), an option was added for the driver-side to receive the same split panel doors; this option was limited to the standard-length body (requiring doors on both sides).[9] The option for the driver-side split 60/40 panel doors was available through the 2014 model year.[11][12] Since its 2003 model revision, the Express has seen incremental updates to the model line. The light-duty 2500 vans (below 8,500 pounds GVWR) were discontinued for 2006. For 2008, the Express passenger van received side-curtain airbags and standard stability control (introduced for 3500-series vans for 2005[13]); the steering wheel, seats, and gauge cluster were also redesigned.[14] For 2011, the dashboard received upgrades (including Bluetooth compatibility and a USB port).[15] For 2013, higher-trim passenger vans received an optional navigation system, rearview camera, and parking assist system.[16]