The
2010 GMC Savana is a full-size van that is available in a plethora of configurations: 1500 Cargo Van, 1500 Passenger Van, 2500 Cargo Van, 2500 Passenger Van, 2500 Extended Cargo Van, 3500 Cargo Van, 3500 Passenger Van, 3500 Extended Cargo Van, and 3500 Extended Passenger Van. The standard engine is a 5.3-liter V-8, while a 6.0-liter V-8 engine is standard on the 3500 trims. All 1500 trims have a four-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, and while an all-wheel-drive configuration is available, the 2500 and 3500 trims offer a heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission. The maximum towing capacity on the 1500 trims is 6,300 pounds, while the 3500 trims can tow 7,600 pounds if properly equipped.
While the features of the Savana are not necessarily outstanding, it is roomy enough for 15 passengers and is often used as a shuttle van or other business transportation. Offered in cargo van, passenger, and conversion configurations, the GMC Savana is functional and safe, scoring perfect crash-test ratings. EPA-rated gas mileage is par for such a large vehicle, coming in at 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway.
New for 2010
For 2010, the GMC Savana's base 5.3-liter engine receives a slight increase in horsepower, while the 2500 and 3500 trims receive a six-speed automatic transmission and updated rear axles for added low-end torque and improved highway gas mileage. Remote vehicle start and flex-fuel E85 compatibility are also new.
Essentials
Engines: 5.3L V-8, 6.0L V-8
Transmissions: 4-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic
Body Style: Full-size van
Trims: 1500 Cargo Van, 1500 Passenger Van, 2500 Cargo Van, 2500 Passenger Van, 2500 Extended Cargo Van, 3500 Cargo Van, 3500 Passenger Van, 3500 Extended Cargo Van, 3500 Extended Passenger Van
On the Outside
A big van with a massive front bumper and lots of glass, the GMC Savana provides a choice of sliding or swing 60/40 passenger doors, while a chrome package is available.
From the Inside
While not the most exciting cabin in the world and a little Spartan, the GMC Savana's interior is cleanly designed, is easy to navigate, has plenty of room. Options include power recline cloth bucket seats.
Driving Performance
Propelled by two powerful engines, a 310 horsepower, 5.3-liter V-8 engine is standard for the 1500 trims, while a 6.0-liter V-8 engine with 323 horsepower runs the 2500 and 3500 trims. The 6.0-liter engine is coupled to GM's six-speed automatic transmission, but the 1500 trims continue to use a four-speed automatic transmission. It's not surprising the GMC Savana is somewhat bulky to drive, but the 1500 trim's power rack-and-pinion steering does help somewhat.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the GMC Savana includes four-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability control, and side curtain airbags for the first three rows of seating. The Savana received a five-star crash rating from the government in frontal crash tests.
Gas Mileage
1500: 13 city/17mpg highway
Plusses
- Strong engines
- Optional all-wheel drive
- Multiple wheelbase and passenger configurations
Minuses
- Lack of tall roof option
- Cabin plastics
- Dated platform
Rating
Full-size van for 15 passengers or lots of cargo
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