Used 2019 GMC Savana

Every year we watch as Ford, Ram, Nissan and Mercedes-Benz change the concept of the modern-day work van. The lone holdout, it seems, is GM as witnessed by the durable yet aging 2019 GMC Savana van. While great for 1970s van lovers looking to re-create their youthful glory days, the Savana’s design just isn’t up to snuff. There’s no high-roof option or all-wheel drive, although it can tow up to 10,000 pounds, carry up to 15 people and even offers the option of a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder diesel engine. Still, for those needing the convenience of a rolling workshop, the latest in passenger safety and comfort or the most up-to-date upfitting options, a Ford Transit, Nissan NV or Ram ProMaster is a better fit.

Fans of 1970s’ vans will appreciate that the 2019 Savana’s overall shape and utility largely resemble the groovy vans of that era. Of course, the Savana has more modern features such as available blind-zone alert and a rearview camera, but little else has changed. The design has both advantages and drawbacks, the positives being the Savana’s powerful engine lineup, 12- or 15-passenger capability and 10,000-pound tow rating. However, unlike the Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster, the Savana doesn’t offer the extended-roof height that permits someone to work in the cargo bay without having to stoop over. The passenger model lacks the modern seating setup of its rivals, omitting both head restraints and center armrests, and when driving in snow or ice, the Savana’s rear-drive layout isn’t as capable as a front-drive van. On the road, the Savana’s high seating and ample glass make maneuverability quite easy, although a rather large turning radius somewhat hampers it in tight confines. The 2.8-liter turbodiesel offers good power and fuel economy, while the 6.0-liter V8 is the most powerful engine you can get in a work van.

The Savana’s interior is utilitarian, but highly functional. In cargo-van form, the driver and front-seat passenger enjoy high-backed bucket seats, a wide dash and ample open space for boxes or rack and shelf systems. The Crew Cargo version offers seating for five, and on extended-wheelbase models, plenty of room for cargo. Passenger vans get rows of bench seating accommodating up to 15 persons; however, those benches don’t incorporate the large head restraints found on more modern passenger vans. Driver assists now include available lane-departure warning, forward-collision alert and rear park assist.

While the Savana doesn’t offer a high-roof option, the upside is it won’t be limited by low-clearance entryways or standard garages. The traditional box shape of the cargo area hasn’t changed much in 30 years, although the Savana’s exterior sheetmetal has been updated enough to still be attractive, especially for those looking for a platform for RV conversion. Available door configurations include sliding or split swing-out passenger-side doors and numerous add-ons like the swing-out ladder rack. The van can also be customized to accommodate wheelchairs and assist with entry, and buyers can even receive financial reimbursement through the GM Mobility Program.

EASY ACCESS
Flexibility in van access is key to the Savana’s success in the workplace. Be it the traditional sliding side door or optional hinged split doors available on both the side and rear of the van, getting in and out of the Savana is never a problem.

CAPABILITY
From its 284-cubic-foot cargo bay to its 10,000-pound tow rating, when it comes to ability the 2019 GMC Savana is no slouch. Passenger models can seat up to 15 persons.

It’s not surprising that a work van like the base Savana cargo has the barest essentials. There is a standard 4.3-liter V6, plus air conditioning, power windows and door locks, manual exterior mirrors, rearview camera, vinyl seats and an AM/FM radio with auxiliary input. It is also equipped with GM’s subscription-based OnStar 4G LTE connectivity service. Passenger-van models feature cloth seat fabric and 12- or 15-passenger seating. Safety features include 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, StabiliTrak electronic stability control and dual front airbags (plus head/side-curtain airbags for the first three rows in the Passenger Van).

The Savana’s noteworthy extras include a 6.0-liter V8 or 2.8-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine, a towing package, locking rear differential, cruise control, upgraded audio systems, blind-spot monitor, forward-collision alert and lane-departure warning. Also available is an integrated 6.5-inch touch-screen navigation system with traffic information. Passenger models can get rear air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and other comfort/convenience amenities, while cargo vans offer a spray-in floor liner. On the more industrial side, there’s an enormous upfitter market for tool racks, work benches, special-needs mobility provisions and whatever else you can imagine. GM actively cooperates with these manufacturers.

The 2019 Savana full-size van offers a choice of three engines. Standard is a new 4.3-liter V6 that puts out 276 horsepower and 298 lb-ft of torque. This engine is teamed with an 8-speed automatic for improved fuel economy. Optional is a 2.8-liter inline-4 turbodiesel also teamed with the 8-speed transmission. Lastly, there’s the workhorse 6.0-liter V8 good for 342 horsepower and mated to a 6-speed automatic. All Savana vans are powered by their rear wheels, so if you require an all-wheel-drive commercial van, you’ll need to look to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

2.8-liter turbocharged diesel inline-4
181 horsepower @ 3,400 rpm
369 lb-ft of torque @2,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

4.3-liter V6
276 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm
298 lb-ft of torque @ 3,900 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

6.0-liter V8
342 horsepower @ 5,400 rpm
373 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/16 mpg