2022 GMC Savana

Overview

As a basic work tool, the 2022 GMC Savana gets the job done, but this no-frills package doesn’t offer the same modern amenities of its rivals. Instead, this simplistic, boxy van—which is a clone of the Chevy Express—has one thing on its mind: productivity. Available as either a cargo or passenger van, the Savana can haul and tow with the best of them. Want a touchscreen infotainment system? Too bad. In-dash navigation? Nope. Adaptive cruise control? Forget it. The Savana’s been in production since before those features even existed. The Savana’s charm lies in its simplicity, but the tradespeople who drive them might find rivals such as the Ford Transit, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and the Ram ProMaster more pleasant rigs to live with.

What’s New for 2022?

GMC’s boxiest offering rolls into 2022 with no significant changes, as it has for nearly two decades.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

If you’re looking for an extra-large full-size cargo van with big power, the cargo model in the 2500 extended-wheelbase configuration represents the best value. Several engines are offered, but we recommend the optional 6.6-liter V-8 engine. With 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque, it’s considerably more powerful than the standard 276-hp 4.3-liter V-6.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

GMC offers the Savana with a wide range of powertrains. Both the passenger and the cargo versions of the van come standard with a 276-hp 4.3-liter V-6, but we recommend the optional 401-hp 6.6-liter V-8. The most expensive engine available is a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel making 181 horsepower. It’s only a four-cylinder, but it pumps out an impressive 369 pound-feet of torque. Still, vans with the V-8 can pull and haul more weight. While the V-6 and the diesel engines get a more modern eight-speed automatic transmission; the V-8s are still paired with an antiquated but durable six-speed automatic. The 2500 or 3500 version of the Savana passenger van with the standard-length wheelbase offers the highest tow rating when equipped with the 6.6-liter V-8 and the optional trailering equipment package.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Because of the GMC Savana’s classification, it doesn’t receive fuel-economy rating from the EPA. This is also the case with GMC’s heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Savana is all about function. Its interior offers large, comfortable seats and a basic dashboard design with durable black plastics and ergonomic control placement. The passenger van comes standard with seating for 12 but extended-wheelbase models can transport 15. The base LS trim level gets front and rear air conditioning, power windows, power locks, an AM/FM audio system with MP3, cruise control, and a tilt steering wheel. The upper LT trim adds a few luxuries such as keyless entry. Cargo versions of the Savana offer as much as 287 cubic feet of cargo space; however, unlike high-roof versions of some competitors, tall users cannot stand up inside the Savana comfortably. Cargo vans come raw, with bare cargo areas for easy customization to fit your needs. GMC does offer some shelving and other storage solutions, as well as a sliding side door or two doors that swing out. Unlike modern minivans, all Savanas only have a cargo or loading door on the passenger side.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

If you’re expecting the same level of infotainment technology and connectivity as GMC offers in its pickups, you’re going to be disappointed. The standard Savana doesn’t even have a touchscreen in its dashboard, but a touchscreen with navigation is offered for the passenger van. A Wi-Fi hotspot and Bluetooth are offered on both models, as is the myGMC mobile app, which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from your smart phone. The app also allows you to schedule and manage dealer maintenance visits.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

GMC offers a basic list of driver-assistance technology on the 2022 model; however, two of them are included only in the more expensive LT trim level: forward-collision alert and lane-departure warning. Side blind-spot monitoring is also available, while a backup camera is standard. For more information about the Savana’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

Available forward-collision warning
Available side blind-spot alert
Available rear parking assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

GMC includes a basic warranty package on the Savana, and it’s similar to the warranties offered on the ProMaster and Sprinter. GMC also includes the cost of one dealer visit for scheduled maintenance during the first year, and the duration of the Savana’s powertrain warranty can be extended to five years or 100,000 miles for qualified fleet purchases.