2008 GMC Savana
Based on analysis of 12 Savana reviews and test drives.
GMC Savana - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 GMC Savana ranks 1 out of 3 Passenger Vans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 12 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Savana, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Savana has an excellent choice of powerful engines and good interior space, but suffers from a dull interior design and subpar cargo capacity.
The 2008 GMC Savana has a powerful selection of engines and interior space that's more than adequate for most uses, if not quite as large as some competitors. Our analysis finds it's a good choice for those looking for either a passenger or cargo van. Motor Trend reports that after a 2003 redesign, the Savana could "better fill a variety of market needs -- from the personal-use passenger van to the commercial cargo workhorse, and from conversion-van capability to keeping upfitters happy with a functional and dependable cutaway chassis."
The Savana comes in three different trims – the 1500, 2500 and 3500 – each of which has a Passenger and a Cargo edition. The Passenger 3500 and the Cargo 2500 and 3500 also have extended wheelbase versions. If you're shopping for a passenger van, also consider the Savana's platform mate, the Chevy Express.
- "They're useful for carrying lots of stuff or people." -- Car and Driver
- Following its last redesign in 2003, Motor Trend notes, "GM's new full-size-van lineup offers a smart new look, strong powertrain choices, including the segment's most powerful V-8, and enhanced durability and safety." -- Motor Trend
Savana Performance - 7.7 (Good)
The 2008 GMC Savana has an excellent choice of five different engines and decent handling for a van. Referring to the van's 2003 redesign, Motor Trend reports that "it didn't take more than a single lap around the test track to see that the '03 vans accelerate smoother, handle tighter, ride quieter, and steer more precisely than the current models, which had already enjoyed a ride advantage over their Ford counterparts." Our full Performance Review offers more information on the distinction in performance capacities between the Cargo and Passenger trims of the Savana. continue
Savana Exterior - 5.5 (Mediocre)
The Savana's look is clean and functional, but reviewers are positive it won't catch any envious eyes when coasting down the street. Click on our GMC Savana Photo Gallery to assess the van's dimensions, or continue with our full Exterior Review to read how the Savana's design compares to other passenger vans. continue
Savana Interior - 7.7 (Good)
The interior of the 2008 GMC Savana is designed for utility, not style, but seats are comfortable and there's more than adequate space for hauling cargo. Our GMC Savana Photo Gallery provides images of the van's seating, controls and steering wheel, while our full Interior Review gives more information on the cabin differences between models that seat eight, 12 or 15. continue
Savana Safety - NA
The 2008 GMC Savana does very well in government crash tests. The Cargo 1500 and Passenger 1500 models receive five out of five stars for both driver and front passenger protection in front impact crashes. Check out our Safety Review to learn what standard safety features help Savana models achieve their high crash test ratings. continue
Savana Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 GMC Savana reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). All GM vehicles are covered by a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue