Used 2004 Chevrolet Astro
Buying Guide for the Chevrolet Astro:
The Astro is Chevrolet’s version of the GMC Safari. As one
of the longest-serving models in the mid-size van segment,
the Astro knows what it takes to remain successful. To that
end it offers exceptional cargo space, thorough safety features
and comfortable eight-person seating.
The Chevrolet Astro also doubles as a commercial vehicle,
so you know it has the bare-bones ruggedness needed to perform
long family treks. With standard antilock four-wheel disc
brakes with a highly responsive Hydroboost hydraulic assist
power brake booster and GM's Dynamic Rear Proportioning, the
Astro provides quicker, more controlled stops than most vans
on the market today.
Under the Hood
All three models—base, LS and LT—receive a 4.3-liter Vortec
V6 engine. It will deliver up to 190 horsepower at 4400 rpm
and 250 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm. To this engine is mated
a 4-speed electronic automatic transmission with overdrive.
The Astro comes with either rear-wheel drive or optional
all-wheel drive. The AWD system
operates in rear-wheel drive until it senses rear-wheel slippage,
then transfers torque to the front axle to help regain traction.
Fuel ratings for 2004 are 16/20 mpg (city/highway) for rear-wheel
drive models, 14/17 mpg (city/highway) for those with AWD.
The 2004 Astro is certainly
strong. With its trusty Vortec engine, it has a 5,400-pound
maximum trailer weight rating.
Standard Features, Options
Packages and Style
In addition to eight-person
seating capacity, the Chevrolet Astro also offers 170 cubic
feet of cargo space with the rear seats removed. The interior
is not only spacious; it is also safe. It provides energy-absorbing
foam behind trim panels, moldings, the headliner and all other
vital areas to protect occupants from potential head injuries.
In the only real change for
2004, all models get larger, standard 16-inch wheels and tires.
Base models have steel wheels, while aluminum wheels are standard
on all uplevel LS and LT models. The tires chosen to drive
the precious cargo of the Astro are P215/70R16 all-season
steel-belted radials.
In the middle of the model
pack, the Astro LS offers a nice blend of standard features
such as front and rear air conditioning, a rear heater, an
AM/FM/CD/cassette player, an overhead console, rear radio
controls, rear Dutch doors and more. If that’s not enough,
there’s always the flexible options list to consider. |
