First Impressions of the Chevrolet Lumina APV for 1996
A lot has been said about the Chevrolet Lumina APV for 1996. As Chevrolet’s entry in the mini passenger van market the Lumina APV (and in this case specically the LS version) has maintained a solid reputation. The 3-door Lumina APV is especially appealing to wide market segment, making it a perfect van to help Chevrolet as a brand in general.
Performance
The Lumina APV LS is equipped with a General Motors 3.4 liter six-cylinder engine that utilizes 12 valves. The Chevrolet engine is mated to a General Motors 4-speed Transaxle. This configuration has proven to be a successful design for Chevrolet.
The Lumina APV uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are drum. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The van uses coil and air springs front and rear respectively.
For the 1996 Lumina APV, the fuel delivery system is a electronic SFI, using gasoline for fuel. A fuel-injected MFI configuration. The gas tank holds 20.00 gallons.
Lumina APV LS Statistics
The dimensions of the Lumina APV LS are 73.90 inches wide by 191.50 inches long. It sits a comfortable 65.70 inches off the ground. It seats a standard seven passengers, with 3 doors. The wheelbase of 109.80 allows for limited leg room for the backseat passengers.
There is a 50,000* mile, 60* month warranty with this vehicle, including a powertrain warranty of 50,000*/36* miles/months. This is normal for this price range.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $19,890 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of an industry-average price. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 3-door Mini Passenger Van.
Fuel Efficiency
The 1996 Lumina APV gets 26 miles/gallon on the highway and only 19 in the city. This is average for a mini passenger van van.
The vehicle is available in several colors.
In Summary
There are several reasons why the Chevrolet Lumina APV LS sold well in 1996. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Chevrolet, specifically a Lumina APV.
I’m definiately wanting a flex fuel mini passenger van. Since the Lumina APV isn’t, is it a good buy?