2000 GMC Safari: Road Test
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2000 GMC Safari ▼
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- MSRP: $20,304 -$23,951
- Invoice: $18,375 -$21,676
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Our road test for the 2000 GMC Safari includes a full evaluation of the 2000 GMC Safari from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 GMC Safari, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 GMC Safari help you decide if a 2000 GMC Safari is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
The V6 and automatic transmission combine to provide smooth, fairly strong acceleration. Downshifts are prompt and passing power is good.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
On the downside, the V6 consumes lots of gas. Our most recent test model, an AWD Astro, averaged just 13.4 mpg with about 70-percent city travel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.9 |
Astro and Safari are better suited to heavy-duty work than are front-drive minivans. For example, their 6000-pound trailering capacity is 2500 pounds above that of the front-drive Chevy Venture. But the penalty for that brawn is a somewhat bouncier ride, more wind and road noise at freeway speeds, and rather trucky steering and handling.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4.3 |
Still, Safari isn't as ponderous as a full-size van, and the available all-wheel drive is a minivan plus, especially for recreational use and snowbelt dwellers. It's also convenient in requiring no driver input.
QUIETNESS
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.5 |
Noiser than most minivans, but not trucklike.
CONTROLS
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
The dashboard has a convenient layout with lots of built-in storage. All controls are within reach of both the driver and front passenger, and are easy to operate. GMC offers an optional dual sound system that allows front and rear passengers to listen to different audio sources simultaneously.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 6 |
Front entry/exit is hampered by a tallish step-up and doorways that are quite narrow at the bottom. Once aboard, front-seat riders contend with slim, almost cramped footwells. Head room is abundant throughout.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
There's good passenger space in the second and third rows, though getting to the third-row bench is difficult.
CARGO ROOM
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 9.3 |
Seats aren't as easy to remove as the lighter modular units in front-drive GM minivans, but they open up plenty of cargo space. Unlike the swing-out rear doors, the Dutch doors allow an unobstructed rear view and include the convenience of lift-open glass and an available defogger.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.8 |
Consider the Astro/Safari twins if you're looking for a minivan to haul cargo and handle light-duty towing. If you want one primarily for passenger use, go with a more car-like front-driver such as Venture, Dodge Caravan, Ford Windstar, or Plymouth Voyager.
Total Score
| SLX 2WD | SLX AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 45 | 46 | 54.4 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Minivans
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