2003 GMC Savana: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Like its cousin, the Chevrolet Express, GMC's Savana gains available all-wheel drive, left-side swing-out doors, and a side access panel on cargo versions for 2003. Passenger and Cargo models are offered. Half-ton 1500s comes only in regular length; three-quarter-ton 2500s and one-ton 3500s come in regular or extended length. All models have two swing-open rear cargo doors and, on the passenger side, either 60/40 doors or a sliding door. Newly optional for '03 are 60/40 doors on the driver side. Regular-length Passenger Vans seat 8-12 people, extendeds carry 12-15. Front seats are buckets; others are benches, which can be removed. Dropped for '03 is the SLT model, which had come with two second-row buckets and a dual-screen rear-seat video entertainment system. Cargo models have two front bucket seats along with metal side and rear panels in place of windows. Newly optional on cargo models without the driver-side 60/40 doors are driver-side access panels where the side windows would normally be. A 4.3-liter V6 and automatic transmission are standard. Three new V8s of 4.8, 5.3, and 6.0 liters are offered; they replace V8s of 5.0, 5.7, and 8.1 liters. The 6.5-liter turbodiesel V8 has been dropped. All-wheel drive is newly available on 1500 Cargo/Passenger and 2500 Cargo models; AWD models are designated H1500 and H2500. Rear-drive versions carry on as G1500/2500/3500. Four-wheel ABS is standard, and all models get 4-wheel discs for '03. No side airbags are offered. Other updates for '03 include revised front styling that adds 5 inches to overall length and the availability of General Motors' OnStar assistance system.

COMPETITION

It is a toss-up between Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana in the full-size van market. They share chassis and engines, and this year add a left-side passenger door, optional AWD, and a host of other user-friendly features. GM's upgrades help Express and Savana beat out Ford's Club Wagon for a top spot in the class, though we do recommend the Ford for its creature comforts and day-to-day reliability. The Dodge Ram wagon is now only available to commercial buyers.