2012 Chevrolet Express 1500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 is standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control on both cargo and passenger vans. Otherwise, this is a quiet carryover year with no major powertrain, styling, or structural updates.
About the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500
2nd generation (2003-2025), late-cycle year.
The Chevrolet Express 1500 is Chevrolet’s lighter-duty full-size van for either hauling people or carrying work gear. Chevrolet pitches the broader Express range as a dependable business partner, and that fits the 1500 well: it favors durability, straightforward controls, strong V8 power in passenger form, and simple service-friendly hardware over flashy design. Its standout difference versus many rivals of the time is available AWD on 1500 models, plus the choice between cargo and passenger layouts without moving to a much more expensive van.
The base cargo van is the work-focused version, with two seats, a regular-wheelbase cargo body, swing-out rear doors, and Tow/Haul mode. The eight-seat LS passenger van uses a 5.3-liter FlexFuel V8, while the LT adds rear air conditioning, a rear heater, power windows, and remote keyless entry for more passenger-friendly duty.
What changed, by category
2012 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
What changed on the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500?
Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control is the main change for 2012. The rest of the Express 1500 is largely unchanged from 2011.
Was the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 redesigned?
No. The 2012 Express 1500 is a late-cycle model from the second generation, with no major exterior, body-structure, or chassis redesign.
Does every 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 have stability control?
Yes. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on the 2012 Express 1500 base cargo van and the LS and LT passenger vans.
What is the difference between the 2012 Express 1500 LS and LT?
The LT adds passenger-comfort features over the LS, including rear air conditioning, a rear auxiliary heater, power windows, and remote keyless entry. Both are eight-seat passenger vans with a 5.3-liter FlexFuel V8 and four-speed automatic transmission.
Did the 2012 Chevrolet Express 1500 get a new engine or transmission?
No. There was no major Express 1500 powertrain change for 2012. The LS and LT passenger vans retain a 5.3-liter FlexFuel V8 and four-speed automatic transmission.