Standard eight-passenger seating, 5,400-pound trailer rating, torquey V6.
Cons
Poor fuel economy, intrusive engine cover makes for small footwells, overall lack of refinement.
What’s new
All 2003 Safaris have larger 16-inch aluminum wheels and an improved braking system.
Edmunds says
Other than its ability to mimic a SUV in terms of towing ability and cargo space, there's not much about the Safari van that makes it a viable choice over its numerous competitors.
This vehicle will last you a lifetime
and spend very little time in the
repair shop.maintenance costs are super
low if you stay away from the awd. i
purchased an extended warranty but i
know I'll rarely use it. as long as you
understand its a dinosaur to drive
around town pot holes. also note that
it is a durable "truck" that can get to
be a handful when the fuel tank … gets
close to one quarter full when the
pavement is wet. adding weight during
the winter with the correct truck type
tires will keep you unstuck. the engine
power could be stronger, but the smooth
power band and not too stiff suspension
makes it pretty effortless to drive.
This van is set up to haul the family and its cargo. Has been good both in town and on the highway. Not the best looking vehicle on the road, but it does what is asked of it. Regular maintenance keeps it in shape.
truly the best vehicle we ever had
5 out of 5 stars
mesh7, 04/30/2013
2003 GMC Safari AWD 3dr Minivan (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
our 2003 gmc safari is the best vehicle i could ever hope for . weve put over 200.000 miles on it and almost no maintence. it
never breaks down and all weve had to replace is fuel pump and alternator. This van is perfect and i ABSOLUTELY recommend it . GMC did a great job with this one . VERY RELIABLE
Just love this Van! This is my second I purchased the first on brand new in 1990 with a high top, swivel seats, TV, VCR... after 156,000 miles I bought a 2001 in 2002 and still have it today. It has 163,000 miles and still going. I'm 6'-8" tall and 360 lbs. The van is a work horse. I fit like a glove It has gone to Florida and all parts northeast. I used it to move my tools and … merchandise in both of my businesses. Why oh Why did they stop making this creature of love!!! I will miss you and will with all my heart try to keep what I have for as long as it will run. I have replaced many components, but that OK I want to keep it for a long time. Long Live the Astro and Safari Vans...
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2003 GMC Safari, so we've included reviews for other years of the Safari since its last redesign.
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