2021 GMC Savana
2021 GMC Savana Review
- Three available engines all have enough torque to move a fully loaded van
- Towing and payload capabilities are at or near the top of this class
- No high-roof cargo option
- Harsher ride than most rivals
- Dated touchscreen interface and interior styling
- New 6.6-liter V8 with 401 horsepower replaces 6.0-liter V8
- Optional navigation system no longer offered
- Part of the first Savana generation introduced for 1996
If you asked a kid to draw a picture of a van, you'd probably wind up with something that looked just like a GMC Savana. It and its twin, the Chevrolet Express, have gone largely unchanged for more than two decades, and the Savana is one of the last truck-based full-size vans you can get. That truck-based architecture does have substantial towing benefits, but that's about where the advantages end. This isn't the most comfortable or pleasant van to drive. And while it does offer two wheelbase options and three available engines, the Savana lacks the option for a higher roof that will give your passengers the space to walk around between the seats without having to crouch.
For 2021, the Savana picks up a 6.6-liter V8 (401 horsepower, 464 lb-ft) to replace the old 6.0-liter V8. This bigger V8 can tow up to 9,600 pounds, while the standard 4.3-liter V6 and 2.8-liter diesel engines can tow up to 6,700 pounds and 6,300 pounds, respectively.
Full-size vans have taken a big step forward, and even the similarly rugged and truck-based Nissan NV is more comfortable and has better road manners. Ford's Transit and Ram's ProMaster offer a healthy range of options, body-style configurations and more modern tech. There's undoubtedly some appeal in the Savana's tried-and-true design, but overall we suggest checking out the other vans to more comfortably transport passengers.
Which Savana does Edmunds recommend?
GMC Savana models
The 2021 GMC Savana is available in 2500 and 3500 load ratings. The 2500 is standard wheelbase only, while the 3500 is available in a standard or extended wheelbase and has a higher GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating, or the weight of your vehicle plus any passengers and cargo). The longer wheelbase also means that the 3500 increases seating capacity from 12 to 15 passengers. All Savanas come with a choice of three engines:
2021 GMC Savana pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $37,200
- MPG & Fuel
- N/A City / N/A Hwy / N/A Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 31.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 12 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 276 hp @ 5200 rpm
- Torque: 298 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 224.0 in. / Height: 84.5 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 79.3 in.
- Curb Weight: 5991 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: N/A
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Savana safety features:
- OnStar
- Provides third-party assistance in the event of a collision, vehicle theft or other emergency.
- Rear Vision Camera
- Displays a view of the area immediately behind the Savana in the rearview mirror or in the central display when the touchscreen is ordered.
- Rear Park Assist
- Sounds an alert when the rear of the Savana is close to an object.
GMC Savana vs. the competition
2021 GMC Savana
2021 Nissan NV Passenger
GMC Savana vs. Nissan NV Passenger
Nissan's NV is similar to the Savana in that it offers an available torquey V8 engine and comes in rear-wheel drive. The Nissan is more comfortable and easier to drive and just feels more modern all around. The GMC counters with optional seating for 15 (the Nissan offers room for only 12), an optional diesel engine and a higher available tow rating.
GMC Savana vs. Ram Promaster Window Van
If you drive your van within the tight confines of the city, the ProMaster will definitely make a case for itself thanks to its tight turning circle. Ram also gave the ProMaster loads of interior space and a strong payload rating. But the ProMaster doesn't come with the option for rear seats, which must be purchased through a third-party supplier.
GMC Savana vs. Ford Transit Crew Van
Ford's replacement for the Econoline, the Transit is everything the GMC Savana is not. The Transit uses far more modern unibody construction, offers multiple roof heights, and has plenty of options for customization. The Transit is also available with all-wheel drive and features a much more up-to-date infotainment system.
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FAQ
Is the GMC Savana a good car?
What's new in the 2021 GMC Savana?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 GMC Savana:
- New 6.6-liter V8 with 401 horsepower replaces 6.0-liter V8
- Optional navigation system no longer offered
- Part of the first Savana generation introduced for 1996
Is the GMC Savana reliable?
Is the 2021 GMC Savana a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 GMC Savana?
The least-expensive 2021 GMC Savana is the 2021 GMC Savana LS 2500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $37,200.
Other versions include:
- LT 3500 3dr Ext Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $40,900
- LS 3500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $38,400
- LS 3500 3dr Ext Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $39,200
- LS 2500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $37,200
- LT 2500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $39,300
- LT 3500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $40,100