Why The GMC Savana Is One Of The Best Full-Size Work Vans
19th Apr 2022
Commercial businesses and contractors like you rely on superior work vans to haul cargo and people between job sites. It's imperative to invest in a reliable option so the cargo or transit van can last you long-term.
A full-size cargo van like the GMC Savana is ideal to get the job done! When it comes to the special features and capabilities that your line of work requires from your van, few options are superior in performance and durability to the Savana.
Characteristics and Specs of the GMC Savana Cargo Van
With their Savana lineup, GMC offers cargo and passenger vans like the 2500 work van or the 3500 model. The GMC Savana is similar to its sister van the Chevrolet Express in terms of the available features. The specs of the 2022 GMC Savana work van are:
Wheelbase Dimensions
You can choose between a regular 135-inch wheelbase and an extended wheelbase of 155 inches. These are standard sizes for a cargo van.
Engine
The regular model has a 4.3-liter V-6 gas engine, but you can get a 6.6-liter V-8 gas engine with the extended model. The GMC Savana and Chevy Express are the only work vans on the market with V-8 engines. The Savana cargo van can achieve 276 horsepower and about 298 pound-feet of torque, while the V-8 engine reaches 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque.
You can also equip your GM van with a Duramax turbo-diesel 2.8-liter engine, which reaches up to 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.
All engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission standard and are available with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Cargo Area and Payload
The full-size Savana has an expansive cargo area measuring 239.4 cubic feet in the short wheelbase van and 284.4 cubic feet in the long wheelbase vehicle. It offers top-class payload capabilities because of its powerful V-8 engine. However, the V-8 engines are less fuel-efficient compared to V-6.
The maximum payload of the Savana 2500 is 3,280 pounds for the regular model and 3,060 pounds for the extended model. The maximum payload of the GMC Savana 3500 is 4,280 pounds of weight for the regular model and 4,090 pounds for the extended model. Unless you need the extra payload that comes with the bigger van, begin with 2500 to keep your costs lower.
Other Features
Like any reliable, full-size work van, the model you drive may need to have certain features depending on your daily tasks. GMC Savana specifications include these additional features:
- A 10,000-pound towing capacity, greater than any other van.
- Stability control for smooth driving when fully loaded.
- Rear-wheel drive.
- A generous 31.0-gallon fuel tank.
Disadvantages
The only downfall with the van is that it has no high-roof cargo option, but it may be ideal depending on the industry you work in. Other than that, you can use the best features of this reliable cargo van without drawbacks.
Aspects to Consider When Investing in a Savana Cargo Van
Any van you use for commercial purposes must be dependable. So, how do you know which cargo van is most reliable? Here are a few features that matter if you are considering buying a Savana as your work van:
1. Fuel Efficiency
Even though the V-8 is the bigger engine choice and has more horsepower, consider getting the standard engine size if you're most concerned with its efficiency. The V-6 engine will be more fuel-efficient, whereas the V-8 will burn more fuel and may require additional equipment. The V-6 engine offers direct injection.
2. Cargo Space and Storage Area
If more room for passengers or cargo is what you're looking for, the Savana has two good options. The Savana 2500 has about 240 cubic feet of space, while the 3500 has a bit more at 284 cubic feet. Both dimensions of the vans are about the same, however. The 3500 also seats more people.
3. Resale Value
While the initial cost of the GMC Savana 2500 is less than the 3500, you will receive a higher resale value for the 3500 if it's in excellent condition. You also have to consider the overall affordability of each model and how market pressures affect the number of buyers who will be interested in your used model at some point in the future.
4. Longevity
If you keep up with the maintenance schedule of your Savana, it can last long term, whether you use it each day or a few times a week. The longevity of a GMC Savana is around 20 years at its maximum life span.
5. Repair Costs
Both models come with similar warranty plans, but the 2500 may endure less wear in the long run when it comes to repairs costs. Examples of common repairs for the GMC Savana include timing belt replacement, oil change and brake pad replacement.
6. Towing Capacity
The maximum towing capacity of a GMC Savana 3500 and 2500 is 7,400 pounds, but for the extended model, the limit is 7,100 pounds. This slight difference could matter when hauling is integral to your business operations.
7. Payload
The Savana 3500 has a larger payload than the Savana 2500. It is designed to transport more passengers and more cargo. If you require your cargo van to hold a high weight capacity, the 3500 model is ideal, although both models have a high total payload.
8. Handling
Compared to the 2500, the Savana 3500 has a smaller turning radius, which makes it easier to maneuver around tight areas.
The Savana is one of the best work vans, and you can upgrade it even more so with Advantage Outfitters equipment. For example, we offer upfitting options like shelving packages, ladder racks, floor kits and so much more.
Advantage Outfitters Can Customize Your Savana
Advantage Outfitters is here to support our clients when you need to organize and maximize the space you have in your work truck. You can choose products that are custom fit to your Savana and are also lightweight and durable. When you shop online, we provide fast shipping within 48 hours. We have an easy ordering process and technical help if you need assistance.
Browse our product categories or contact an Advantage Outfitters representative online. We can handle all your GMC Savana van upfitting needs!
