2009 Chevrolet Express 3500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for 2009 is the addition of six named cargo and passenger configurations to the lineup. Otherwise, the Chevrolet Express 3500 is essentially a carryover, with no redesign or broad mechanical, styling, safety, or technology update.
About the 2009 Chevrolet Express 3500
2nd generation (2003-2025), seventh model year after the 2003 redesign and one year after the 2008 passenger-van safety/interior update.
The Express 3500 is Chevrolet’s heavy-duty full-size van for buyers who need simple, proven hardware more than modern styling. In cargo form it is a work van built for tools, shelves, upfits, towing, and payload. In passenger form it is a people mover for shuttle duty, churches, schools, hotels, and large families. Its core appeal is straightforward: strong V8 power, rear-wheel-drive durability, multiple body lengths, and a boxy layout that prioritizes usable space.
The 2009 Express 3500 ranges from two-seat heavy-duty cargo vans to passenger vans with seating for 12 or 15 people. LS passenger models focus on basic fleet duty, while LT models add cloth seats, rear climate controls, power accessories, cruise control, and keyless entry. Extended versions use a longer 155-inch wheelbase for greater cargo room or 15-passenger seating.
What changed, by category
2009 Chevrolet Express 3500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter / V8, 6.6L Turbo Dsl | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter / V8, 6.6L Turbo Dsl | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 6.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Diesel | Gas | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 250–319 hp | 319 hp | 319 hp | 250–319 hp | 319 hp | 319 hp |
| Torque | 294–460 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 294–460 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 10000 lb | 7600 lb | 7600 lb | 10000 lb | 7300 lb | 7300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 267.3 cu-ft | 217.3 cu-ft | 217.3 cu-ft | 316.8 cu-ft | 252.6 cu-ft | 252.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | ||
| Seats | 2 | 12 | 12 | 2 | 15 | 15 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Stability Control | ||||||
| Traction Control | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| AM/FM Radio | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Power Locks | ||||||
| Power Windows | ||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Chevrolet Express 3500 redesigned?
No. The 2009 Express 3500 remained part of the generation introduced for 2003, with no major body, chassis, suspension, or exterior redesign.
Which Chevrolet Express 3500 configurations were added for 2009?
Six named configurations joined for 2009: Base and Extended cargo vans, along with LS, LS Extended, LT, and LT Extended passenger vans.
Did the 2009 Chevrolet Express 3500 get a new standard engine?
No. Chevrolet made no standard powertrain change for 2009. The LS and LT passenger vans retained a 6.0-liter V8 and four-speed automatic transmission.
Did passenger-van safety equipment change for 2009?
No. The 2009 passenger vans carried over their stability control and side-curtain airbags for the first three seating rows from the previous year.
Is the 2009 Express 3500 a major upgrade over the 2008 model?
No. The 2009 model is not a major upgrade over the 2008 Express 3500. Its main difference is the addition of six named lineup configurations rather than a broad change to its engines, body, safety equipment, or cabin technology.