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2005
GMC Savana 1500

Starts at:
$22,860
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New 2005 GMC Savana 1500
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 1500 135" WB RWD
    Starts at
    $22,860
    15 City / 20 Hwy
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 1500 135" WB RWD
    Starts at
    $25,915
    15 City / 19 Hwy
    MPG
    8
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 1500 135" WB AWD
    Starts at
    $27,885
    14 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2500 135" WB RWD
    Starts at
    $28,765
    -
    MPG
    8
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 1500 135" WB AWD
    Starts at
    $30,115
    14 City / 18 Hwy
    MPG
    8
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500 2005 GMC Savana 1500

Notable features

Four available engines
Up to 15-passenger capacity
Three available duty levels
RWD or AWD
Available Cargo Van configuration

The good & the bad

The good

Interior space
V-8 performance
Towing capacity
Cargo-hauling capacity

The bad

Fuel economy
Maneuverability
Stability and handling
Noise
Resale value

Expert 2005 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 redesigned its full-size vans for the first time in seven years for the 2003 model year. The 2003 Savanas got upgraded powertrains, fresh features and an updated appearance. Three industry firsts in full-size vans were available: all-wheel drive, an optional left-side door and unique side access panels for use on commercial vans. Front-end styling was revised to give the Savana a greater family resemblance to other General Motors’ trucks.

GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability system was added to 15-passenger models in 2004. Chevrolet’s Express is closely related to the Savana and sells far better. For 2005, StabiliTrak is also standard on regular-wheelbase 12-passenger vans.

Exterior
As part of the 2003 redesign, the Savana’s front end gained a new grille, bumper, fascia, hood and fenders. Upscale reflector-type headlights were installed, and the taillamps were revamped.

Light-duty vans have rack-and-pinion steering, which promises greater agility. Front and rear suspensions are modified from those used on GM’s full-size pickup trucks. The rear suspensions use a solid axle with multileaf springs and gas shocks. All Savanas have 16-inch wheels.

Passenger vans come in regular and extended lengths. The regular-length model has a 135-inch wheelbase and measures 224.1 inches long overall, while the extended-length van rides on a 155-inch wheelbase and stretches 244.1 inches long overall. Each of these vans is 79.4 inches wide and at least 81.6 inches tall.

Regular-length passenger and Cargo Vans can be fitted with a 60/40-split left-side entry and loading door. The side access panels feature remote releases and are limited to work-oriented models. They permit easier accessibility to tools and parts from either side of the van.

Interior
Depending on the configuration, Savana passenger vans can carry eight, 12 or 15 occupants. Cargo Vans seat a maximum of two people. Both Radio Data System technology and GM’s OnStar communication system are available.

Under the Hood
The Savana can be equipped with one of four engines: a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6; a 285-hp, 4.8-liter V-8; a 295-hp, 5.3-liter V-8; or a 300-hp, 6.0-liter V-8. Each engine teams with a four-speed-automatic transmission that incorporates a tow/haul mode. Rear- and all-wheel-drive models are available.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes and daytime running lights are standard, but side-impact airbags are not available.

2005 GMC Savana 1500 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
GMC redesigned its full-size vans for the first time in seven years for the 2003 model year. The 2003 Savanas got upgraded powertrains, fresh features and an updated appearance. Three industry firsts in full-size vans were available: all-wheel drive, an optional left-side door and unique side access panels for use on commercial vans. Front-end styling was revised to give the Savana a greater family resemblance to other General Motors’ trucks.

GM’s StabiliTrak electronic stability system was added to 15-passenger models in 2004. Chevrolet’s Express is closely related to the Savana and sells far better. For 2005, StabiliTrak is also standard on regular-wheelbase 12-passenger vans.

Exterior
As part of the 2003 redesign, the Savana’s front end gained a new grille, bumper, fascia, hood and fenders. Upscale reflector-type headlights were installed, and the taillamps were revamped.

Light-duty vans have rack-and-pinion steering, which promises greater agility. Front and rear suspensions are modified from those used on GM’s full-size pickup trucks. The rear suspensions use a solid axle with multileaf springs and gas shocks. All Savanas have 16-inch wheels.

Passenger vans come in regular and extended lengths. The regular-length model has a 135-inch wheelbase and measures 224.1 inches long overall, while the extended-length van rides on a 155-inch wheelbase and stretches 244.1 inches long overall. Each of these vans is 79.4 inches wide and at least 81.6 inches tall.

Regular-length passenger and Cargo Vans can be fitted with a 60/40-split left-side entry and loading door. The side access panels feature remote releases and are limited to work-oriented models. They permit easier accessibility to tools and parts from either side of the van.

Interior
Depending on the configuration, Savana passenger vans can carry eight, 12 or 15 occupants. Cargo Vans seat a maximum of two people. Both Radio Data System technology and GM’s OnStar communication system are available.

Under the Hood
The Savana can be equipped with one of four engines: a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6; a 285-hp, 4.8-liter V-8; a 295-hp, 5.3-liter V-8; or a 300-hp, 6.0-liter V-8. Each engine teams with a four-speed-automatic transmission that incorporates a tow/haul mode. Rear- and all-wheel-drive models are available.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes and daytime running lights are standard, but side-impact airbags are not available.

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

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

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2005
    5.0
    GMC Savana 1500
    Starts at
    $22,860
    15 City / 20 Hwy
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2005
    4.1
    Chevrolet Express 1500
    Starts at
    $22,860
    16 City / 20 Hwy
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2004
    4.0
    GMC Savana 2500
    Starts at
    $23,500
    -
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2003
    4.0
    GMC Savana 1500
    Starts at
    $23,105
    15 City / 20 Hwy
    MPG
    1
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare

Consumer reviews

5.0 / 5
Based on 2 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.1
Performance 4.5
Value 4.5
Exterior 4.5
Reliability 5.0

Most recent

  • Road trip ready

    I like it. I actually had an older model and I upgraded it to have the 8 door. I only use it for family vacations. It's great for road trips. It has a smooth ride. It's very spacious and comfortable
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • VERY RELIABLE

    I drive this vehicle for work as my cargo van. I have over 100k on it and I'm not having any problems with it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

GMC dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2005 GMC Savana 1500?

The 2005 GMC Savana 1500 is available in 1 trim level:

  • (5 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2005 GMC Savana 1500?

The 2005 GMC Savana 1500 offers up to 15 MPG in city driving and 20 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 2005 GMC Savana 1500?

The 2005 GMC Savana 1500 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2005 GMC Savana 1500 reliable?

The 2005 GMC Savana 1500 has an average reliability rating of 5.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2005 GMC Savana 1500 owners.

Is the 2005 GMC Savana 1500 a good Cargo Van?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2005 GMC Savana 1500. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

5.0 / 5
Based on 2 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.1
  • Performance: 4.5
  • Value: 4.5
  • Exterior: 4.5
  • Reliability: 5.0
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