2011 Chevrolet Express 1500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 is standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control on every cargo and passenger van. Otherwise, this is a light update rather than a redesign.
About the 2011 Chevrolet Express 1500
2nd generation (2003-2014), late-cycle update year.
The Express 1500 is Chevrolet’s old-school full-size van for buyers who need space, durability, and straightforward mechanicals more than modern styling. In passenger form it is built to move people with flexible seating and big side/rear openings; in cargo form it is built to move tools and equipment in a simple two-seat layout. Available AWD on 1500 models also gave it a practical edge for buyers working in bad weather.
The 2011 Express 1500 remains a straightforward full-size van offered for work or passenger duty. The cargo model has a two-seat layout and wide-opening side and rear doors, while the eight-passenger LS adds a 5.3-liter FlexFuel V8 and head-curtain airbags for the first three rows. The LT builds on the passenger van with rear climate controls, cruise control, power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry.
What changed, by category
2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Flex Fuel, 5.3 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 5.3 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.3 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Flexible Fuel | Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 13 mpg | 13–15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 310 hp | 195–310 hp |
| Torque | 334 lb-ft | 334 lb-ft | 260–334 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6200 lb | 6000 lb | 6700 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 216.2 cu-ft | 216.2 cu-ft | 270.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Rear Air Conditioning | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 redesigned?
No. The 2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 is a light-update model that keeps the same body and basic powertrain layout as the 2010 van.
What is the main safety change on the 2011 Chevrolet Express 1500?
Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control is the main safety change for 2011. It applies to both cargo and passenger versions of the Express 1500.
Did the 2011 Chevrolet Express 1500 get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2011 update does not bring a lineup-wide engine or transmission change; the 1500-series powertrain layout carries over.
What changed on the 2011 Express 1500 LS and LT passenger vans?
The 2011 LS and LT gain standard StabiliTrak stability control and standard OnStar with an initial six-month Directions & Connections service plan. Their basic roles remain the same: LS is the simpler eight-passenger model, while LT adds everyday comfort and convenience equipment.