2023 GMC Savana

Overview

Some things exist for certain reasons, clinging to a defining quality over time. That’s the GMC Savana’s story: it’s long been regarded as a tool—both a thing used by craftsmen to support their trade and a simple, cost-efficient way to move people. It’s lived in this space for over a decade, solidifying its existence as a frugal workhorse. Its mechanicals are evidence of its purpose: it’s offered only as a 2500 or 3500 heavy-duty model. A simple rear-wheel drive layout is the only drivetrain configuration, and the Savana is as sparse on the inside as it is on the outside. A standard V-6 engine doles out adequate power and torque to get most jobs done, and a stout 6.6-liter V-8 is available for tasks that require more grunt. Its optional trailering package enables a maximum towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. A basic passenger model can seat up to 15. When it comes to work tools, simple is good. The ancient Savana remains a vehicle worth considering for those in the market for a cargo, tradesman, or passenger van that’s more affordable than the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Ram ProMaster.

What’s New for 2023?

For the 2023 model year, the 2.8-liter Duramax in-line four-cylinder engine is no longer available. Also dropped is the radio provisions feature, which included hardware for radio installation in vans that had been built without a factory GM radio. The Savana otherwise remains the same but for its eye-opening price increase, which ranges between $5,200 and $5,600 depending upon model.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

If you’re looking for an extra-large full-size cargo van with big power, the cargo model in the 2500 extended-wheelbase configuration represents the best value. Standard equipment for the Savana Cargo 2500 includes a rearview camera, hill-start assist, and electronic stability control. When it comes to propulsion, the engine you choose depends upon the job your Savana will be doing. Most tasks can be accomplished with the base 4.3-liter V-6, which develops 276 horsepower and 298 pond-feet of twist. But for towing large loads there’s no question the V-8, with its 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, is the better choice. Other available equipment includes a chrome grille as well as chrome front and rear bumpers, cruise control, forward collision alert, a locking rear differential, though adding such features detracts from the Savana’s value proposition.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

GMC offers Savana passenger and cargo vans with a standard 276-hp 4.3-liter V-6, and an optional 401-hp 6.6-liter V-8. The V-6 engine gets paired with a more modern eight-speed automatic transmission while the V-8s are still paired with an antiquated yet durable six-speed automatic. The 2500 or 3500 version of the Savana passenger van with the standard-length wheelbase offers the highest tow rating–10,000 pounds–when equipped with the 6.6-liter V-8 and the optional trailering equipment package.

GMC

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Because of the GMC Savana’s classification, it doesn’t receive fuel-economy rating from the EPA. This is also the case with GMC’s heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Savana is all about function. Its interior offers large, comfortable seats and a basic dashboard design with durable black plastics and ergonomic control placement. The passenger van comes standard with seating for 12 but extended-wheelbase models can transport 15. The base LS trim level gets front and rear air conditioning, power windows, power locks, an AM/FM audio system with MP3, cruise control, and a tilt steering wheel. The upper LT trim adds a few luxuries such as keyless entry. Cargo versions of the Savana offer as much as 287 cubic feet of cargo space; however, unlike high-roof versions of some competitors, tall users cannot stand up inside the Savana comfortably. Cargo vans come raw, with bare cargo areas for easy customization to fit your needs. GMC does offer some shelving and other storage solutions, as well as a sliding side door or two doors that swing out. Unlike modern minivans, all Savanas only have a cargo or loading door on the passenger side.

The Car and Driver Difference

Infotainment and Connectivity

If you’re expecting the same level of infotainment technology and connectivity as GMC offers in its pickups, you’re going to be disappointed. The standard Savana doesn’t even have a touchscreen in its dashboard, but a touchscreen with navigation is offered for the passenger van. A Wi-Fi hotspot and Bluetooth are offered on both models, as is the myGMC mobile app, which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from your smart phone. The app also allows you to schedule and manage dealer maintenance visits.

How to Buy and Maintain a Car

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

GMC offers a basic list of driver-assistance technology on the 2022 model; however, two of them are included only in the more expensive LT trim level: forward-collision alert and lane-departure warning. Side blind-spot monitoring is also available, while a backup camera is standard. For more information about the Savana’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

Available forward-collision warning Available side blind-spot alert Available rear parking assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

GMC includes a basic warranty package on the Savana, and it’s similar to the warranties offered on the ProMaster and Sprinter. GMC also includes the cost of one dealer visit for scheduled maintenance during the first year, and the duration of the Savana’s powertrain warranty can be extended to five years or 100,000 miles for qualified fleet purchases.

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Complimentary maintenance is covered for the first visit

More Features and Specs