2011 GMC Savana 3500

The Savana is available in quarter-ton, half-ton and one-ton weight classes, in regular- and long-wheelbase form with five engine choices. These variations come in four different van models: cargo, 15-seat passenger, conversion and cutaway. Competitors include the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford E-Series.

New for 2011
There is a new 3500 passenger van with a Duramax turbo-diesel engine, and GM's electronic stability system, StabiliTrak, is now standard on all cargo and passenger vans. A dealer-installed Wi-Fi internet option is available.

Exterior
The Savana's front end has a trapezoidal grille with a large GMC badge and upscale reflector headlights. Passenger vans come in regular and extended lengths. Regular-length passenger and cargo vans can be fitted with a 60/40-split left-side entry and loading door. Side access panels, which offer access to either side of the van, feature remote releases and are available on work-oriented models. Exterior features include: 

• Standard 17-inch steel wheels on 1500, with 16-inch steel wheels on the 2500 and 3500
• Optional 17-inch aluminum wheels on 1500

Interior
Depending on the configuration, Savana passenger vans can carry eight, 12 or 15 occupants. Cargo vans seat a maximum of two people. Interior features include:

• Available remote vehicle start
• Available dealer-installed Wi-Fi internet option
• Standard air conditioning

Under the Hood
Light-duty G1500 vans have rack-and-pinion steering, while G2500 and G3500 vans have integral power steering. The rear suspensions use a semifloating axle with multi leaf springs and gas shocks. The Savana can be equipped with one of five engines. Rear- and all-wheel-drive models are available. Mechanical features include:

• 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6 with 260 pounds-feet of torque
• Flex-fuel 279-hp, 4.8-liter V-8 with 294 pounds-feet of torque
• Flex-fuel 310-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 with 334 pounds-feet of torque
• Flex-fuel 323-hp, 6.0-liter V-8 with 373 pounds-feet of torque
• 260-hp, turbo-diesel 6.6-liter V-8 with 525 pounds-feet of torque
• Fast idle option on 6.0-liter V-8 allows heavy-duty accessory usage at idle

Safety
Twelve- and 15-passenger models have three-layer glass that helps reduce the risk of ejection during an accident. Additional standard safety features include:

• Driver and front-passenger airbags
• All-disc antilock brakes
• Standard side curtain airbags (on passenger models)
• Standard electronic stability control