Was there an AWD version of this van made? If so, when was the earliest model? If so, what kind of highway mileage did it get? I am looking at AWD Astros but would prefer something larger, and in a 3/4 or 1 ton version.

 

Unsure when they began AWD production but I am fairly certain AWD was only offered in 1/2 tons (1500).
There are very reputable companies such as Quigley who convert full size vans to true 4WD you could have a 3/4 or 1 ton. It seems the factory AWD is not intended for serious off road use but I could be mistaken.

 

Thanks! I am looking for something to give me better traction with "on-road" difficulties, i.e. snow, rain, a little bit of mud, etc. I have seen the name "Quigley" on vans and you may as well add $15K to the price tag - of a used van!

 

Yes Quigley produces quality conversions, aka not cheap.

 

Yes GM did offer AWD 1500 vans. 2003 was the first year. From what I was told they do very well in the snow. The 1500 was discontinued this year and the awd model went with it.

 

I have a 2004 AWD which I love. I have a back yard with a creek which is always a bit soggy and my two previous vans would get stuck there and I had to have a friend pull me out more than once.
I found out about the AWD Express and had a hard time finding a used one in the south (live in Atlanta). I ended up finding several on Craigslist across the north and ended up flying to NYC to buy one.
I love it...never an issue on the road in our occasional snow disasters and have pulled my trailer out of the back yard when loaded with 2 tons of debris.

 

I wish I bought an AWD, especially one with a left hand door. 2014 was the last year and they only came in the 1500 series.