Used Chevrolet Astro

Launched in 1985, the Astro was Chevrolet’s attempt in giving competitors a run for their money in the rear-wheel drive minivan market segment. These competitors included the Dodge Caravan, the Plymouth Voyager Twins, and the Toyota Van. Interestingly, the Astro’s sibling, the Safari from GMC, also shared the truck-based platform of the Astro. The Chevrolet Astro model name was actually used previously for its Chevrolet Astro 1 Concept car, which was not related to the Astro itself. This concept car was first displayed at the 1967 New York Autoshow. Although the Astro was mostly referred to as a minivan, its size was actually a cross between the Chevrolet Venture/Lumina and the Chevy Van/Express. The Venture/Lumina was an APV minivan while the Van/Express had a full body all on its own. And just like the Ford Aerostar, the Astro had the traditional truck frame for its basis. Because of its platform, the Astro could easily deal with 5,500 lbs of weight, with the help of proper equipment, of course. The AWD models, on the other hand, could tow just 5,000 lbs. Still, this is a lot of weight to be towing around, and this is something that the Astro can do with finesse even. Car based minivans that are equipped with front wheel drive capabilities, on the other hand, can tow just 3,500 lbs of weight, so you can surely see for yourself what an advantage the Astro holds over other models. As for its engine options, you have a wide range of engines types to choose from, which include the 145 hp, V6 engine all the way up to the 190 hp V6 engine. Your options would depend on the model year of the Astro you are interested in. Starting out as a rear-wheel drive vehicle, it was in 1990 when a new all-wheel drive was designed and produced by FFD or FF Developments. These were offered as options, which later proved to be the preferred ones because they brought about lower fuel economy, with just 17 miles per gallon compared to the 20 to 21 gallons that the rear drive vans can hold. However, it had problems with its front suspension concerning premature idler arm wear. Upgraded designs were then developed and introduced to deal with the problem aptly. Sadly, 2005 saw the end of production for the used Chevrolet Astro, with the Chevrolet Uplander as its replacement. With roughly 20 years of production, 3.7 million units were produced in just the Baltimore plant alone.