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Yes,
after nearly two decades of production with relatively few changes, GM still makes
the Astro and Safari. Why? Well, ask any owner and they'll probably tell you that
the Astro/Safari duo are the best compromise of small van maneuverability and
big van capability on the market. Its dimensions are mid-pack in this group, but
it's the only one with sturdy body-on-frame construction and rear-wheel drive
(all-wheel-drive is optional, too). Think of it as a downsized Chevy Express [full-size]
van rather than an upsized station wagon, and you'll get the drift.
The Astro/Safari twins looking for all the world like the boxes they came in,
but enclosed within the crate-like design is a bounty of usable space, unencumbered
by such concessions to vanity as sloping rear windows or tapering bodysides. Hence,
in long-wheelbase form, these two vans boast the highest cargo capacity of any
van in this guide. To get it all moving is a somewhat noisy standard 4.3-liter
V-6 that makes 190 horsepower, which isn't a whole heckuva lot of power for such
a heavy van. But more important is that the big engine makes 250 lb-ft of torque,
which makes towing up a 5,500-pound trailer a breeze.
Also of note are
that for 2003, the brakes have been improved for better response and pedal feel.
Larger (16-inch) wheels are now standard across the board, and best of all, the
prices have been lowered by several hundred dollars from last year.
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