2007 Chevrolet Uplander Cargo Van Review discusses a promising vehicle from GM.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

2007 Chevrolet Uplander Cargo Van Review

The Uplander is a minivan, or rather, a "crossover sport van" that debuted in 2005. It replaced the Astro and the Venture. It's based on the same platform as the Saturn Relay and the Buick Terraza.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Uplander Cargo Van delivers a minivan that doesn't totally look like a minivan at a decent price. However in terms of safety, space, and features, it's far behind the leading competition. While it's cheaper than most of its competitors, you may be better off spending the extra money to get a bit more out of your van.

What's New For 2007:

This year, all-wheel drive has been dropped. The 3.5-L V6 has been replaced by a flex-fuel 3.9-L V6. The engine is E-85 compatible meaning owners can use regular unleaded gas or an 85% ethanol blend for fuel. Stability control is now standard on most models.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems include failing EGR valves, failing OnStar units, defective chips, engine misfires and noise, inaccurate fuel gauges, and stiff horns. It's been recalled four times so far for weak seat latches, stuck emergency brakes, and misprinted or missing labels. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Uplander earned 5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4.5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Good" for frontal impacts, "Acceptable" in side impacts, and "Poor" for rear impacts. Anti-lock brakes come standard. Stability control comes standard on all but the base LS. Side airbags are standard on the LT, but optional on the LS. The 2LT and 3LT have second-row side airbag protection. However, the third row is not covered.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Sleek design
+ Good price
+ E85 compatible engine

Cons
- Poor reliability
- Limited interior space
- AWD no longer available

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Dodge Caravan Cargo Van costs nearly $700 less, but lacks traction control and has 60 less hp. The Ford E-Series Van E-150 has a larger V8 engine and 800 more feet of cargo room, however it costs nearly $1,500 more and lacks a CD player and traction control. The GMC Savana Cargo Van offers over 1,000 more feet of cargo space, but lacks a CD player, traction control, and has 45 less hp.

What Others Are Saying:

"In terms of design, refinement and packaging, competitive minivans (yes, minivans) from Honda, Toyota and Chrysler are literally decades ahead of the Uplander. And proud of it." - The Truth About Cars

"General Motors appears to be shaking itself awake from its decade-and-a-half long slumber and starting to come out with the kind of automobiles those of us who don't earn our living in the oil patch or on a cattle ranch might consider buying." - About.com

"With the driver's seat comfortably set for my 6' 1" frame, my oldest teenage daughter was unable to sit behind me, forcing us to re-arrange her seating position to the middle seat behind my wife. In my opinion, this is a significant oversight on the part of Chevrolet and one I hope they fix when the next new design arrives later in the decade." - Road and Travel

Read more about the 2007 Chevrolet Uplander Cargo Van at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, October 10, 2007 - Email to a friend

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