2008 Gmc Savana in Newark, NJ - $2,995

Engineered to work hard, the full-size GMC Savana van/wagon is designed to carry impressive quantities of people and cargo. Available in two different wheelbases; 1500 (half-ton), 2500 (three-quarter ton) and 3500 (one-ton) configurations and Cargo or Passenger Van interior formats, the Savana is the last word in the light-duty transport.

Power for the Savana is provided by the following Vortec gasoline powerplants: 4.3L V6, 4.8L V8, 5.3L V8 and 6.0L V8. For 2010, E85 capability and variable valve timing is standard on 4.8L, 5.3L and 6.0L engines (passenger and cargo models). Torque is delivered to the pavement through the standard four-speed Hydra-Matic 4L80 automatic transmission. Savana 2500 and 3500 models receive a new-for-2010 Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission and revised rear axles, delivering improved low-rpm torque, improved highway fuel economy, improved drivability, and Autograde braking. A Duramax 6.6L V8 turbo-diesel is an available option for the Savana 2500/3500 cargo van models.

The stout, full-frame underpinnings permit the application of tried and true suspension hardware -- independent short/long arm (SLA) with coil springs and a 30-mm stabilizer bar in the front; two-stage, semi-elliptic multi-leaf springs and semi floating axle in the rear.

Inside the Savana, the instrument cluster includes a comprehensive Driver Information Center that provides drivers with a wealth of information, including instructions to replace the fuel filter, clean the exhaust filter and service the air conditioning system; warnings that the transmission is hot, traction control is disengaged, the fuel level is low and a vehicle theft has been attempted; reminders that a turn signal has been left on, the gas cap has not been properly tightened and that the vehicle's top speed is limited.

Access in and out of the Savana is easy. A wide, low step-in is built into all door openings. Double doors open wide at the right side and rear to facilitate loading of both passengers and cargo.

Also, an industry-first 60/40-split left-hand side-hinged door (135-inch wb models) provides the segment's most flexible loading capability. It offers complete driver's side access to the second row seats, making loading and unloading cargo easy. The 60/40-split door also facilitates passenger entry and exit.

Dimensions & specifications

Regular wheelbase

Wheelbase: 135.0; overall length: 224.0; width: 79.4; height: 81.6

Extended wheelbase

Wheelbase: 155.0; overall length: 244.0; width: 79.4; height: 82.0

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 4.3L V6 – 195 hp at 4,600 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm; 4.8L V8 – 280 hp at 5,200 rpm and 296 lbs-ft of torque at 4,600 rpm; 5.3L V8 - 310 hp at 5,200 rpm and 334 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm; 6.0L V8 - 323 hp at 4,600 rpm and 373 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; 6.6L V8 turbo-diesel – 250 hp at 3,200 rpm and 460 lbs-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm.

Transmission: heavy-duty four-speed automatic, six-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 4.3L V6 – 15 city/20 hwy.; 5.3L V8 – 13 city/17 hwy.

Cargo capacity: regular wheelbase: 204.0 cu. ft; extended wheelbase: 237.3 cu. ft.

Payload capacity: 4,151 lbs.

Towing capacity: 10,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, battery run-down protection, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, PASS-Key III theft deterrent system, StabiliTrak vehicle stability control, and full-size spare tire.

Optional safety features include heavy-duty rear locking differential, side-impact head curtain airbag, remote vehicle start system, backup alarm, and safety reflector triangles kit.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Limited

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 GMC Savana starts from $24,655 for the G1500 SWB cargo upto $34,185 for the G3500 LWB wagon model. Destination charges add $980.