EDMUNDS.COM 2004 GMC SAFARI CARGO
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
A workhorse minivan designed for contractors rather than families.
Pros
Lots of cargo space with reasonable exterior dimensions, 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 for 2004
An argent grille is now standard.
Overview
Introduction:
The Safari has enjoyed a continuous run since its introduction in 1985. With its truck-based body-on-frame construction, the Safari has earned a reputation as an extremely tough and capable minivan that has made it the choice of utility fleets across the country. Available with a gutsy 4.3-liter V6 engine since 1986, the Safari boasts a higher tow rating than most minivans. It was also one of the first vans to offer all-wheel drive when that feature debuted in 1990. Although bigger than most other minivans, the Safari''s older design results in an interior that feels less spacious than it really is. Couple that with only minor design revisions in its 17-year lifespan and it''s easy to see how the passenger versions got left behind by more modern competition. The fact remains, however, that if you''re looking for a work vehicle that''s smaller and easier to maneuver than a true full-size van, the Safari cargo van and its Chevrolet twin, the Astro, are just about the only game in town.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
Safari cargo vans are no-frills strippers ready to accept whatever tools and equipment you need on the job. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, a cloth headliner, multiple cupholders, full interior lighting, two power outlets and an AM/FM stereo. The options list includes features like power window and door locks, cruise control, a rear auxiliary heater, keyless entry and an upgraded audio system with four speakers and a CD player.
Powertrains and Performance:
A 190-horsepower, 4.3-liter V6 is the only engine available, sending power through a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. Standard rear-wheel drive allows the Safari to boast a maximum towing capacity of 5,400 pounds. A full-time all-wheel-drive system is optional. This system transfers power to the front wheels when it detects rear-wheel slippage for maximum traction in adverse weather situations.
Safety:
All Safari vans now come standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Safari three out of five stars for protection of the driver in a frontal crash and four stars for the front passenger. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Safari "Poor," its lowest ranking, after administering its frontal offset crash test.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
With only minor changes since its debut in 1985, the Safari interior is dated-looking to say the least. Overall interior room is generous, with 170 cubic feet of total cargo space, but small front footwells make the driver and front passenger feel more cramped than in most minivans. Maximum cargo capacity is 170 cubic feet.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Taller than your typical minivan, the Safari is admittedly more trucklike in temperament, but delivers a pleasant highway ride with competent handling. Compared to full-size vans, it''s smaller and easier to maneuver in tight spaces. The 4.3-liter V6 engine provides plenty of thrust down low, but it runs out of breath quickly.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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