2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van
What’s new
- Lane departure warning and forward collision warning now available
- Part of the first Savana generation introduced for 1996
Pros & Cons
- Towing and payload capabilities are near or at the top of the class
- Powerful gasoline and diesel engines
- Limited cargo configurations mean less storage room than many rivals
- No high-roof cargo option
- Dated interior styling, materials and technology interface
- V8 engines are thirstier than competitors' V6 offerings
Which Savana Cargo does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
A work van is one of the best vehicles for securely transporting tools and gear from one site to the next. These workhorses can haul thousands of pounds without breaking a sweat, and the large, rectangular cargo areas are ripe for aftermarket modification. But not all work vans are created equal, as exemplified by the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo. Though the Savana is perfectly capable of getting the job done, newer rivals are ultimately more refined and typically offer multiple body configurations for greater cargo versatility.
Along with its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Express, the Savana Cargo is one of the last remaining body-on-frame vans. Built on a rigid truck chassis, the Savana offers a slightly higher towing limit than many of its unibody rivals, and payload capacity is similarly competitive.
However, the Savana's old-school construction comes at the cost of performance and comfort. It rides and feels like a 23-year-old truck because, well, it is a 23-year-old truck. Work vans are more utilitarian than passenger-pleasing, but recently updated competitors are easier to maneuver around town and are more composed when making turns. The Savana also lacks taller roof choices, so selecting the longer of the two wheelbases will be the only way to increase the size of the cargo area.
The Savana is competent in its own right, but the case for choosing it over competitors is rather thin.
2019 GMC Savana Cargo models
The 2019 GMC Savana Cargo is a full-size van with an expansive, boxy cargo area behind two front seats. (Its Savana Passenger sibling fills this space with additional rows of seating.) It's available in two load ratings: 2500 and 3500. Each can be ordered in an extended wheelbase, which increases cargo volume from 239.7 cubic feet in the standard version to 284.4 cubic feet. Regardless of starting configuration, the Savana only comes in the modestly equipped Work Van trim level. A few packages and numerous stand-alone options are available.
By default, the rear-wheel-drive Savana Cargo is powered by a 4.3-liter V6 (276 horsepower, 298 lb-ft of torque) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Alternate powertrains are available if the standard V6 doesn't meet your requirements, including a 6.0-liter V8 (341 hp, 373 lb-ft) matched to a six-speed automatic and a 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine (181 hp, 369 lb-ft) with an eight-speed auto.
The Work Van's standard features include 16-inch steel wheels, 60/40-split opening doors on the right side, a rearview camera, a driver information display, a non-adjustable steering wheel, air conditioning, power windows and locks, vinyl upholstery and floor covering, LED cargo lighting, six D-ring cargo tie-downs, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, GM's OnStar emergency communications, a 120-volt outlet, and a two-speaker audio system with AM/FM radio and an auxiliary jack.
Major equipment packages include the Convenience, which furnishes a tilt-adjustable steering wheel and cruise control; the Communications, which adds the contents of the Convenience package, plus the V8 engine, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, a CD player, and satellite radio; and Safety, which provides the Convenience package features, plus the V8 engine, power-adjustable heated mirrors, rear parking sensors with a backup alarm, and blind-spot monitoring.
A variety of packages aimed at special commercial uses are also available. Forward collision warning and lane departure warning are also bundled together.
Some of the above features can be added as stand-alone options. Other options include an engine block heater, cloth upholstery, a second heavy-duty battery, power-adjustable front seats, and rear air conditioning and heating.
Scorecard
| Overall | undefined / 5 |
Driving
Comfort
Interior
Utility
Technology
Sponsored cars related to the Savana Cargo
Features & Specs
| 2500 3dr Van 4.3L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $31,900 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 2 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 5200 rpm |
| 2500 3dr Ext Van 4.3L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $33,800 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 2 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 5200 rpm |
| 3500 3dr Ext Van 4.3L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $35,800 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 2 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 5200 rpm |
| 3500 3dr Van 4.3L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $35,000 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 2 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Savana Cargo safety features:
- Rear Park Assist
- Sounds an alert as the Savana approaches an object while in Reverse.
- Rear Vision Camera
- Displays a view of the area immediately behind the Savana in the rearview mirror.
- Backup Alarm
- Sounds an exterior alert to pedestrians and other motorists when the Savana is put in Reverse.
GMC Savana Cargo vs. the competition
GMC Savana Cargo vs. Chevrolet Express Cargo
The Savana Cargo and the Chevrolet Express Cargo are essentially the same vehicle. The only differences are the manufacturer-specific badges on the grille, rear door and steering wheel.
GMC Savana Cargo vs. Ford Transit Van
It's difficult to make a case for the Savana when superior vehicles like the Ford Transit Van exist. Unlike the Savana, which only comes in one body configuration, the Transit Van offers a range of roof heights and length variants to suit your business needs. Three engines are available, including a high-output turbocharged V6 and a five-cylinder diesel. We've also found the Ford's ride is less busy than other work trucks.
GMC Savana Cargo vs. Nissan NV Cargo
Although the Nissan NV Cargo doesn't offer as many body options as the Ford Transit, you can still get it in standard- or high-roof configurations, and there are several load and trim levels, as well. A V6 is standard, with an optional V8 available for buyers who need the extra grunt. Unlike many other work vans, a diesel engine is not offered.
FAQ
Is the GMC Savana Cargo a good car?
What's new in the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo:
- Lane departure warning and forward collision warning now available
- Part of the first Savana generation introduced for 1996
Is the GMC Savana Cargo reliable?
Is the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2019 GMC Savana Cargo?
The least-expensive 2019 GMC Savana Cargo is the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo 2500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $31,900.
Other versions include:
- 2500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $31,900
- 2500 3dr Ext Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $33,800
- 3500 3dr Ext Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $35,800
- 3500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $35,000
What are the different models of GMC Savana Cargo?
More about the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo
2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van Overview
The 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van is offered in the following styles: 2500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A), 2500 3dr Ext Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A), 3500 3dr Ext Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A), and 3500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A).
What do people think of the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 Savana Cargo Van.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Savana Cargo Van featuring deep dives into trim levels including 2500, 3500, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van?
2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van 2500 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
The 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van 2500 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $34,780. The average price paid for a new 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van 2500 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 6A) is trending $2,402 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,402 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $32,378.
The average savings for the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van 2500 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 6A) is 6.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van 2500 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Vans are available in my area?
2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van Listings and Inventory
There are currently 3 new 2019 [object Object] Savana Cargo Vans listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $35,010 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,927 on a new, used or CPO 2019 [object Object] Savana Cargo Van available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 [object Object] Savana Cargo Van for sale near you.
Can't find a new 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van Savana Cargo Van you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new GMC Savana Cargo for sale - 2 great deals out of 11 listings starting at $13,823.
Find a new GMC for sale - 7 great deals out of 10 listings starting at $18,089.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van and all available trim types: 3500, 2500, 3500, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 GMC Savana Cargo Van?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out GMC lease specials