by Day Dreamer
2013
2013 Chevrolet Astro Review
The new 2013 Chevrolet Astro models come with an innovative redesigned powerful Vortec 4300 V6 SFI engine, 250 hp at 4400 rpm and 270 lb.-ft. of torque at 2800 rpm. The new Astro can tow with power making even passing an ease with an attached trailer. All of the unique 2013 Chevrolet Astro models feature an electronically controlled 4L90E 4-speed auto transmission. The optional 325 hp 350ci V8 stainless steel dual exhaust is available for $509.00 more. The hp has been down rated and is believed to be closer to 375 hp.
If you opt for the Astro rear wheel drive passenger van with a Vortec 4300 and automatic transmission you will get an estimated MPG of 21 in the city and 28 on the highway. The all wheel drive passenger van with a Vortec 4300 and auto transmission is 19 city and 23 highway. All of this on 16" wheels with four vented disk brakes.
Astro is equipped with a large capacity fuel tank which will hold approximately 30 gallons, allowing for fewer fill ups on long trips or many short trips. For crash protection the Chevrolet Astro offers front and rear crumple zones designed to deform in a controlled manner to help absorb energy during a crash. Front and rear structures will crumple in a controlled manner and absorb energy during an impact.
On all of the 2013 Chevrolet Astro Vans, All-Wheel-Drive is an option. If you opt for this option expect excellent road-gripping traction and added driver control. This new system automatically transfers power away from a slipping wheel to the wheel with the most traction. This is an improved LSD that functions on all wheels.
If you plan on towing a trailer look into the Trailering Special Equipment Package which includes weight-distributing hitch platform and 8 lead wiring harness. Conversion to 4x4 off road vehicle is another option with on the fly air bag lifted suspension.
The Chevrolet Astro Base model comes standard with leather seating for eight, driver and passenger front and side air bags. ABS Front and rear crush zones and reinforced side door beams are also standard for added safety. Battery rundown protection and tilt wheel steering column, power door locks, windows and mirrors all standard. AC and DVD players for rear seat passengers is also standard. A 12 speaker Bose Ultra sound system and GPS navigation and on board computer with cell phone are installed in the real wood dash in a very good looking package. Don't forget the free On Star in the rear view mirror.
The 2013 and 2014 Chevy Astro LT model comes with standard comfort and convenience features in abundance.
2013 Overall Buy
Versatile and reliable, the new 2013 Chevrolet Astro van offers a lot of van at a reasonable price.
Most Requested Chevrolet Astro Vans MSRP
Astro LS Astro LT Astro Cargo
RWD $25,590 RWD $29,491 RWD $22,495
AWD $27,590 AWD $31,491 AWD $24,895
Add $509 for the V8 Astro SS models
Additional Standard LT Features
intermittent wipers
privacy glass
swing out opening rear quarter windows
electric sliding side door
seat and mirror memory switch for 3 (sets positions for each driver)
rear door child safety locks child seat anchors
rear center lap belt
2 first and second row head rests with DVD screens
2 third row head rests
engine immobilizer
adjustable lumbar support driver and passenger seats
cruise control
speed-proportional power steering
tilt-adjustable steering wheel
towing package with Aux cooler
front, rear and 3rd row cup holders
front and rear floor mats
2013 Safari
The major appearance difference between the Astro and the new Safari beside emblems will be that the Safari has a high top roof. Expect about a 1 to 2 MPG less due to the additional weigh and wind resistance of the Safari.
The Safari will include all of the LT features but will have a V8 and AWD standard. An item delete to RWD is also available. Real wood appointments are placed throughout.
Expect to pay between $5,500.00 to $6,000.00 more for the Safari's additional features like a third row electric fold down bed, second row seat to table and swivel front row seats. A microwave and refrigerator is also included. The high top windows give plenty of light to the interior as well as the special side windows.
Night time privacy is provide by "electric window blinds" when switched on makes the windows from the outside into mirrors through a special film imbedded between the glass layers.
There is an outside plug receptacle for overnight power hook up.
The only option is the small semi private head behind the bed.
