2013 Chevrolet Express 2500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 is the addition of a natural-gas powertrain to the extended cargo van. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with no redesign or broad equipment overhaul.
About the 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500
1st generation Express/Savana platform, late-cycle year (1996-present architecture; 2013 is a mature pre-refresh year).
For 2013, Chevrolet positioned the Express as a dependable work and transport van first, not a style-led family van. The cargo model’s message centered on being a business partner with a wide range of engines and upfit-friendly space, while the passenger model emphasized moving large groups with simple, durable hardware and core safety features. Its main strengths were heavy-duty capability, proven V8 powertrains, straightforward serviceability and the choice between cargo hauling and multi-row passenger duty.
The 2013 Express 2500 remains a work-focused van sold in cargo and 12-passenger forms. Cargo models range from a basic V8 work van to an extended model with 284.4 cubic feet of space, while the heavy-hauling version uses a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8. Passenger models include the straightforward LS and the more comfortable LT, which adds rear air conditioning, power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry.
What changed, by category
2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, CNG, 6.0 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0 Liter | V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Flexible Fuel | Flexible Fuel | Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Diesel | Flexible Fuel / Natural Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | 10 mpg | 10 mpg | ||
| MPG Highway | 16–17 mpg | 16–17 mpg | 15 mpg | 15 mpg | ||
| Horsepower | 280–324 hp | 280–324 hp | 280–324 hp | 260 hp | 280–324 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 295–373 lb-ft | 295–373 lb-ft | 295–373 lb-ft | 525 lb-ft | 295–373 lb-ft | 525 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 9800 lb | 9800 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 216.2 cu-ft | 216.2 cu-ft | 270.4 cu-ft | 270.4 cu-ft | 313.9 cu-ft | 313.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | ||||
| Seats | 12 | 12 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Side Steps | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| 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 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 compared with the 2012 model?
The 2013 Express 2500 added a natural-gas powertrain to the extended cargo van, and touch-screen navigation joined the options list. The body, chassis, styling, gas V8s, and diesel offering otherwise remained largely unchanged.
Was the 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 redesigned?
No, the 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 was not redesigned. It retained its established body, chassis, and work-focused layout, making this a light-update year rather than a new generation.
Which 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 got the natural-gas powertrain?
The extended-wheelbase 2013 Express 2500 cargo van gained the natural-gas powertrain. It joined the existing gas-engine and diesel cargo-van choices.
Did the 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 passenger van receive major changes?
No, the 2013 Express 2500 passenger van did not receive a major overhaul. The LS remained the work-first 12-passenger model, while the LT kept comfort features such as rear air conditioning, power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry.
Is the 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 much different from the 2012 model?
No, the 2013 Express 2500 is largely similar to the 2012 model. The meaningful differences are the extended cargo van’s natural-gas powertrain and the addition of optional touch-screen navigation.