12 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but for buyers of the 2017 Chevrolet Express 3500 2WD Passenger with the 6.0L V8, it’s simply what it costs to operate. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for leisurely Sunday drives; it’s a workhorse designed to haul people and their gear, frequently at or near its maximum payload. Think airport shuttles, church groups, and large families who frequently tackle long road trips with luggage and equipment in tow. Fuel economy is a concern, certainly, but it’s a secondary consideration behind sheer carrying capacity and durability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Chevrolet Express 3500 at 11 MPG in the city and 16 MPG on the highway. Those figures reflect what actually happens when moving a heavy, boxy vehicle through stop-and-go traffic and keeping a steady speed on the open road. The 6.0L V8, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, provides plenty of power for merging and climbing hills, but that power comes at a price. The highway number is respectable enough for long hauls, especially when factoring in a full load, but the city MPG highlights the compromise required when operating such a large vehicle in urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Chevrolet Express 3500 will be around $3,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices from the time of testing. This number is a significant expense for businesses or families on a tight budget. Fleet managers and private owners alike must factor this considerable cost into their operational planning along with maintenance, insurance, and other recurring expenses. Seeing the EXPRESS MPG across all years reveals how little this number has changed over time, despite improvements in automotive technology.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, load weight, terrain, and maintenance. A driver who frequently accelerates aggressively or consistently carries heavy loads will likely see lower MPG figures than the EPA estimates. Conversely, a driver who practices conservative driving techniques and keeps the vehicle properly maintained may be able to achieve slightly better fuel economy, particularly on the highway. Remember that while highway MPG is probably achievable, most drivers will see worse performance in city driving than the EPA suggests.

How it compares

The Ford Transit 350, another popular full-size passenger van, equipped with its 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine, achieves slightly better fuel economy, with EPA ratings around 15 MPG combined. However, the Transit’s configuration and interior dimensions may not suit every buyer’s needs, and some prefer the tried-and-true simplicity of the Chevrolet’s V8 powertrain. Similarly, the Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger van, with its 5.6L V8, offers comparable fuel economy to the Express 3500, but faces its own set of compromises in terms of ride quality and cargo space. The choice, as always, comes down to balancing fuel efficiency with the specific demands of the job and the driver’s preferences. You can see all Chevrolet fuel economy data for any current or previous model year on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling time. The 6.0L V8 consumes a significant amount of fuel when idling, so avoid letting the engine run unnecessarily, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Turning off the engine at long stops can save a surprising amount of fuel over time, particularly in urban environments.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, which can improve fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. A simple tire pressure gauge is an inexpensive tool that can pay for itself in fuel savings.

Practice smooth acceleration and braking. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these driving habits waste fuel. Instead, accelerate gently and brake smoothly to maintain momentum and minimize fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and ease off the accelerator when approaching stops to maximize efficiency.

Keep the vehicle properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, can help ensure that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine operates at its peak performance, which translates to better fuel economy. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is essential for best performance.

Consider reducing load weight. While the Express 3500 is designed to carry heavy loads, reducing unnecessary weight can improve fuel economy. Remove any extra gear or equipment that is not needed for the trip, and avoid carrying unnecessary items in the cargo area. Every pound saved translates to less gas consumed.