2008 GMC Savana 3500

Vehicle Overview
For 2008, a tire pressure monitoring system is standard on GMC’s full-size van, and passenger van models get standard side curtain airbags. Driver controls have been redesigned, too: new equipment includes the steering wheel, gauges, ventilation system controls, stereo and cloth seats. Competitors include the Dodge Sprinter and Ford E-Series.

Exterior
The Savana’s front end has a trapezoidal grille with a large GMC badge and upscale reflector headlights.

Light-duty vans have rack-and-pinion steering, which promises greater agility. 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. Available 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.

Under the Hood
The Savana can be equipped with one of five engines: a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6; a 279-hp (maximum), 4.8-liter V-8; a 301-hp, 5.3-liter V-8; a 323-hp, 6.0-liter V-8; or a 250-hp, 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V-8 that generates 460 pounds-feet of torque. 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 an electronic stability system are standard. For 2008, passenger van models get standard side curtain airbags.