EDMUNDS.COM 2004 GMC SAVANA
Find, Buy, Review, Make offers on, and View more vehicles like the 2004 GMC SAVANA new at UsedNewCars.com!
Click Here For More Reviews On Edmunds.com
 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Powerful Vortec engines and some unique features make the Savana (and its twin, the Chevrolet Express) pretty much the only game in town if you''re looking for a full-size van that doesn''t look and drive like it was designed two decades ago.
Pros
Strong powertrains, dual-passenger access doors, multiple wheelbase and passenger configurations, optional all-wheel drive.
Cons
Plasticky interior, handling still awkward despite improvements.
What''s New for 2004
The StabiliTrak stability control system will be standard equipment on all 15-passenger models starting midyear.
Overview
Introduction:
Originally introduced in 1965, GMC''s full-size van has since undergone only one complete redesign. Constant improvements throughout the ''70s, ''80s and ''90s kept it somewhat up to date, but not until a full redesign in 1995 did the Savana become a legitimately modern vehicle. A new exterior look, new engines, extended body styles and improved ergonomics made the previous Savana hard to overlook when compared with the aging Econoline from Ford. The latest version incorporates some significant improvements like electronic stability control and powerful V8 engines that make the Savana safer and more capable than ever before.
 |
For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The standard wheelbase (135-inch) Savana comes in half-ton, three-quarter-ton and one-ton configurations, while the extended wheelbase version (155-inch) requires either three-quarter-ton or one-ton running gear. There are two trim levels: base and SLE. Base models are geared toward fleet service so standard equipment is limited to air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo and a theft-deterrent system. The more livable SLE models include rear-seat climate controls, power windows and door locks, cloth upholstery, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel and keyless entry. Optional equipment includes power driver and front-passenger seats, the OnStar communications system and an upgraded audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer.
Powertrains and Performance:
The standard engine on two-wheel-drive half-ton models is a 4.3-liter V6 rated at 200 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. A 5.3-liter V8, with 285 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, is standard on AWD half- and three-quarter-ton models and optional on two-wheel-drive 1500 and 2500 series vans. Heavy-duty three-quarter-ton models come standard with a 4.8-liter V8 rated at 270 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque. A 6.0-liter V8 rated at 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque is standard on all 3500 series vans and optional on two-wheel-drive heavy-duty three-quarter-ton models. The big V8 has the ability to run exclusively on compressed natural gas (CNG) or a mixture of gas and CNG. All half-tons, light-duty three-quarter-tons and AWD three-quarter-tons use a four-speed automatic transmission, while heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 series vans get a heavy-duty automatic. Trailer capacities range from 6,600 to 10,000 pounds, depending on the model.
Safety:
All Savanas have four-wheel antilock disc brakes, and starting midyear, 15-passenger models get an electronic stability control system that can restore control in adverse driving situations. Light-duty models (GVWR less than 8,600 pounds) feature a front-passenger sensing system that will deactivate the front airbag if it senses a small child sitting up front. Heavy-duty models use a manual airbag deactivation switch for the front passenger.
|
For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The interior is built for pure functionality, and while it may not be pretty, it sure gets the job done. All controls are simple to use and well within reach of the driver, but as expected the footwells are still cramped up front. Also available are 60/40-split driver-side doors for easier passenger access to the rear seats.
|
For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
A reinforced frame, larger stabilizer bars, rack-and-pinion steering (half-ton models only) and a recently upgraded brake system give the Savana a leg up on Ford''s Econoline when it comes to ride and handling. Although the Savana is still far from nimble, the numerous improvements made last year make day-to-day driving a much more enjoyable experience. The powerful brakes require less effort than most full-size vans and the power of its available V8 engines really make a difference when it comes to merging and passing.
|
For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
[ UsedNewCars.com ] [ Information Index ] [ Site Map ]
[ GMC Information Index ] [ MINIVAN/VAN Information Index ]
|
