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2001
GMC Savana 1500

Starts at:
$21,144
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New 2001 GMC Savana 1500
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 1500 135" WB
    Starts at
    $21,144
    15 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 1500 135" WB BASE
    Starts at
    $23,834
    14 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    8
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 1500 135" WB SLT
    Starts at
    $35,005
    13 City / 17 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500 2001 GMC Savana 1500

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Expert 2001 GMC Savana 1500 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
GMC’s full-size van sells in fewer numbers than the similar Chevrolet Express but attracts a loyal clientele. Along with its full-size rivals from Dodge and Ford, the rear-drive truck-based van has been on the market for decades.

Like Chevrolet, GMC produces both a cargo van and a passenger model, in two sizes and three capacity ratings: G1500 (half-ton), G2500 (three-quarter-ton) and G3500 (one-ton). Two regular trim levels are offered, the base SL and upscale SLE. General Motors and the Lear Corp. have been working together on a Savana SLT luxury van, which would be comparable to the new Chevrolet Express LT.

Built on an extended, 155-inch wheelbase, the 2500/3500 vans can seat 12 to 15 occupants. A new 8.1-liter 8100 V-8 engine has replaced the 7400 V-8 for 2001. Otherwise, changes are primarily technical and are said to boost engine and transmission efficiency. Savana vans also are provided to conversion companies in unfinished form.

Exterior
The regular-length Savana rides a 135-inch wheelbase and measures 218.8 inches long, and extended-length models have a 155-inch wheelbase and stretch to 238.8 inches overall. These vans are considerably taller than minivans, ranging from 79.4 to 83.9 inches above the ground. With the seats removed, cargo volume is 267.3 cubic feet in the regular-length van or 316.8 cubic feet in the full-length model.

Two swing-out passenger-side doors can be replaced by a single sliding door, if desired. At the rear, two doors open a full 180 degrees to ease loading. The new SLT luxury van gets some distinctive exterior additions, as well as a fancier interior. Locks have been improved for 200l.

Interior
Base-model SL G1500 vans have vinyl high-back front buckets and a pair of rear bench seats for eight-passenger capacity. A dozen people fit into the G2500/3500 vans, seated on twin three-passenger benches in the middle two rows and a four-passenger bench in the way back. Seating for 15 is an option for the extended-length G3500 by adding another bench seat. Cargo vans come only with the two front bucket seats, and the passenger seat can also be removed. Cloth upholstery replaces vinyl in the SLE series, which also adds such extras as a tilt steering wheel and cruise control.

A new family of radios operates with Radio Data Systems (RDS) technology, which permits the selection of stations by program type and even the possibility of traffic and weather reports.

Special features on the new SLT luxury van include two 6.8-inch flip-down video screens for family entertainment, independent audio controls in each row, Bose 12-speaker premium sound and two wireless headphones. The exterior of this upscale model gets specific body-color components.

Under the Hood
General Motors offers a selection of five engines to accommodate a variety of cargo- and passenger-hauling requirements. Choices begin with a 200-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 for the G1500 van. Depending on the model, a 220-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 or a 255-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 are the standard powerplants for G2500/3500 vans. Options for heavy-duty models include a new 340-hp, 8.1-liter Vortec 8100 V-8, replacing the 7400 engine. GMC claims that the new 8100 engine is more economical than its predecessor. A 195-hp, 6.5-liter diesel V-8 also is available.

All models have a four-speed-automatic transmission. When properly equipped, a G1500 van can tow as much as 7,300 pounds, while the G3500 diesel can pull as much as 10,000 pounds. This year’s engines have a new powertrain control module and a more efficient alternator, and automatic transmissions for heavier-duty models have received some internal enhancements.

Four-wheel antilock brakes are standard, and side-impact airbags are not available.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2001 Buying Guide

2001 GMC Savana 1500 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
GMC’s full-size van sells in fewer numbers than the similar Chevrolet Express but attracts a loyal clientele. Along with its full-size rivals from Dodge and Ford, the rear-drive truck-based van has been on the market for decades.

Like Chevrolet, GMC produces both a cargo van and a passenger model, in two sizes and three capacity ratings: G1500 (half-ton), G2500 (three-quarter-ton) and G3500 (one-ton). Two regular trim levels are offered, the base SL and upscale SLE. General Motors and the Lear Corp. have been working together on a Savana SLT luxury van, which would be comparable to the new Chevrolet Express LT.

Built on an extended, 155-inch wheelbase, the 2500/3500 vans can seat 12 to 15 occupants. A new 8.1-liter 8100 V-8 engine has replaced the 7400 V-8 for 2001. Otherwise, changes are primarily technical and are said to boost engine and transmission efficiency. Savana vans also are provided to conversion companies in unfinished form.

Exterior
The regular-length Savana rides a 135-inch wheelbase and measures 218.8 inches long, and extended-length models have a 155-inch wheelbase and stretch to 238.8 inches overall. These vans are considerably taller than minivans, ranging from 79.4 to 83.9 inches above the ground. With the seats removed, cargo volume is 267.3 cubic feet in the regular-length van or 316.8 cubic feet in the full-length model.

Two swing-out passenger-side doors can be replaced by a single sliding door, if desired. At the rear, two doors open a full 180 degrees to ease loading. The new SLT luxury van gets some distinctive exterior additions, as well as a fancier interior. Locks have been improved for 200l.

Interior
Base-model SL G1500 vans have vinyl high-back front buckets and a pair of rear bench seats for eight-passenger capacity. A dozen people fit into the G2500/3500 vans, seated on twin three-passenger benches in the middle two rows and a four-passenger bench in the way back. Seating for 15 is an option for the extended-length G3500 by adding another bench seat. Cargo vans come only with the two front bucket seats, and the passenger seat can also be removed. Cloth upholstery replaces vinyl in the SLE series, which also adds such extras as a tilt steering wheel and cruise control.

A new family of radios operates with Radio Data Systems (RDS) technology, which permits the selection of stations by program type and even the possibility of traffic and weather reports.

Special features on the new SLT luxury van include two 6.8-inch flip-down video screens for family entertainment, independent audio controls in each row, Bose 12-speaker premium sound and two wireless headphones. The exterior of this upscale model gets specific body-color components.

Under the Hood
General Motors offers a selection of five engines to accommodate a variety of cargo- and passenger-hauling requirements. Choices begin with a 200-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 for the G1500 van. Depending on the model, a 220-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 or a 255-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 are the standard powerplants for G2500/3500 vans. Options for heavy-duty models include a new 340-hp, 8.1-liter Vortec 8100 V-8, replacing the 7400 engine. GMC claims that the new 8100 engine is more economical than its predecessor. A 195-hp, 6.5-liter diesel V-8 also is available.

All models have a four-speed-automatic transmission. When properly equipped, a G1500 van can tow as much as 7,300 pounds, while the G3500 diesel can pull as much as 10,000 pounds. This year’s engines have a new powertrain control module and a more efficient alternator, and automatic transmissions for heavier-duty models have received some internal enhancements.

Four-wheel antilock brakes are standard, and side-impact airbags are not available.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2001 Buying Guide

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.0 / 5
Based on 1 review
Write a review
Comfort 5.0
Interior 4.0
Performance 4.0
Value 5.0
Exterior 4.0
Reliability 4.0
  • Best value for the money!

    We love our SLT; we have 4 teenagers, all are approaching 6 feet tall. The rare SLT model has the second and third row seats moved further back than the regular passenger van that allows them to really stretch out. We have had our 2001 SLT for 6 years, traveled across the country, coast to coast, pulling a 25 foot travel trailer several times. It has been very reliable, good in the snow (with snow tires) and very comfortable over the 70k miles we have driven it. It does not have the highest quality fit and finish, it doesn't get the best gas mileage (15-19 mpg), however it is simple, reliable, roomy and comfortable.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2001 GMC Savana 1500?

The 2001 GMC Savana 1500 is available in 3 trim levels:

  • (1 style)
  • Base (1 style)
  • SLT (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2001 GMC Savana 1500?

The 2001 GMC Savana 1500 offers up to 15 MPG in city driving and 18 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2001 GMC Savana 1500?

The 2001 GMC Savana 1500 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2001 GMC Savana 1500 reliable?

The 2001 GMC Savana 1500 has an average reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2001 GMC Savana 1500 owners.

Is the 2001 GMC Savana 1500 a good Cargo Van?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2001 GMC Savana 1500. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.0 / 5
Based on 1 reviews
  • Comfort: 5.0
  • Interior: 4.0
  • Performance: 4.0
  • Value: 5.0
  • Exterior: 4.0
  • Reliability: 4.0
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