2016 Chevrolet Express 2500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2016 Chevrolet Express 2500 is a new six-airbag setup across both cargo and passenger vans. This is a light safety and equipment update rather than a redesign or major mechanical overhaul.
About the 2016 Chevrolet Express 2500
Long-running second-generation Express/Savana platform, in late-cycle form for 2016 (generation dating to the 2003 major update).
Chevrolet positions the Express 2500 as an old-school, heavy-duty full-size van built around durability, towing strength, and straightforward fleet use. Its appeal is simple: a body-on-frame layout, strong engine choices, a diesel option in cargo form, cargo and passenger configurations, and familiar controls that are easy for businesses and shuttle operators to live with. Compared with newer rivals, the Express trades interior modernity for proven hardware, simple serviceability, and strong hauling capability.
The 2016 Express 2500 remains a straightforward full-size work van offered in cargo and 12-passenger forms. Cargo versions include regular- and extended-length bodies, while diesel models pair a 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 with a heavy-duty six-speed automatic. The passenger LT adds cloth seats, carpeting, rear climate control, and chrome exterior trim over the more basic LS.
What changed, by category
2016 Chevrolet Express 2500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.6L | V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 4.8 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.6L |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd HD w/OD | Auto, 6-Spd HD w/OD | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Diesel | Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Diesel |
| MPG City | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | ||
| MPG Highway | 16–17 mpg | 16–17 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | ||
| Horsepower | 282–360 hp | 282–360 hp | 282–360 hp | 260 hp | 282–360 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 295–380 lb-ft | 295–380 lb-ft | 295–380 lb-ft | 525 lb-ft | 295–380 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 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Chevrolet Express 2500?
The biggest change is a standard six-airbag setup across the 2016 Express 2500 lineup. Both cargo and passenger vans gained side-impact and side-curtain airbag coverage.
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Express 2500 a redesign?
No, the 2016 Chevrolet Express 2500 is not a redesign. It carries over the long-running body and basic mechanical layout with targeted safety, cargo, and technology updates.
What changed on the 2016 Express 2500 cargo van?
The 2016 Express 2500 cargo van gained six standard airbags and six standard floor-mounted D-ring tie-downs. Its equipment list also added newer in-dash navigation and rear-camera-mirror hardware.
What technology changed on the 2016 Express 2500 passenger van?
The 2016 LS and LT passenger vans made Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, a touchscreen, and USB ports standard. Rear-camera-mirror hardware also joined the equipment list.
Is the 2016 Express 2500 meaningfully different from the 2015 model?
Yes, but the differences are modest rather than transformative. The 2016 model adds six standard airbags across the lineup, standard cargo tie-downs on work vans, and upgraded technology equipment.