1998 GMC Safari Review

It's a Work Horse

Written by: GM Owner on 07/21/2008

Vehicle

1998 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Review

We love our van. Bought new has 110k miles. This van has pulled concrete carts, hauled 8 passengers, been filled with cement blocks, carried surf boards, moved us accross country and took us camping for two weeks this summer thru deserts (115f) and over mountains at 8,000ft. We take out the seats, place a bed inside and just cruise by those expensive motels. It will get over 24mpg if you set cruise under 60mph. Its a work horse!

Favorite Features

The value in this van is incredible. No repairs, good fuel economy, easy to park, plenty of power, will do anything well, holds its appearance, and ready to go another 100k and a great place to camp.

Suggested Improvements

When we need a replacement for this one. We just hope GM makes a suitable replacement.

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Lots of life left

Written by: Jeff on 10/25/2006

Vehicle

1998 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE 4WD Passenger Van Extended

Review

2nd owner of this AWD and I now have 120,000 miles on it. Took it to Colorado Springs (from Pa.) this summer and had no problems. Van got between 18 and 20 MPG going 70-80 MPH but would get 24.5 going 55. In cColorado Springs it got 16.5 MPG. Only problems I ever had with van was a water pump at 115,000. It has been a good Van. Outstanding AWD in the snow. Better than my 4X4 truck. 4.3 cyl. probably the best 6 cyl. on market but could get better MPG.

Favorite Features

AWD, Rear dutch doors, rear heat and air, depedability.

Suggested Improvements

Lights on stereo do not light up anymore. More front leg and head room. I am 6'2". Seats are not real easy to remove and heavy.

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All around good vehicle

Written by: westone on 09/05/2003

Vehicle

1998 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLT Passenger Van Extended

Review

Our experience with this van has been excellent. It hauls 7 people plus ample luggage, averages 21 mpg (RWD), and we tow up to 6,000 lbs with it (rated for 5,000). No other vehicle we are aware of offers this kind of utility AND gets this kind of gas mileage. After 5 years and 100k miles, it has never left us stranded. We take care of it, and plan to drive it as far as it will go. We love it.

Favorite Features

Utility and gas mileage, reliability.

Suggested Improvements

Dash controlled rear vent windows.

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Safari Vans vs. the minivan market

Written by: rufrider on 01/06/2003

Vehicle

1998 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Review

We have had few problems with this van, and it is our second of this style. We have also owned a Toyota minivan, a Chevy Regency,and SUV's. The interior room is it's greatest advantage. In comparison with the other minivans on the market, it has more leg and head room. The large area behind the rear seat holds suitcases and ice chests enough for a family for a 2 week vacation (keeping these things out of the seating area). We had this advantage with a full size van but had to deal with difficulty parking in small spaces, and gas mileage.For the most efficiency for the greatest amount of space, we'll choose Safari again.

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

Power slide doors on both sides.Seats that are less difficult to remove.

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great truck

Written by: elisabethsdaddy on 12/01/2002

Vehicle

1998 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLX Passenger Van Extended

Review

I drive courier in this van,300 hard miles a day. replace idler arms every 100000 and other normal wear items never let me down.with proper maintenance will go forever. change tranny fluid every 15000. recomend this vehicle for any one wanting a tough vehicle that will hold the entire family

Favorite Features

room, durability

Suggested Improvements

mor room in front foot wells

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