Impressions of the GMC Savana 1500 for 2008
A high point in the standard cargo van market is the GMC Savana 1500. In 2008 GMC rolled out an upgraded version of the Savana 1500 with three versions: Base, LT, and LS. Sales for the Savana 1500, especially the Savana 1500 Base, were brisk during 2008 and 2009. The improved reliability and the updated styling were responsible for the increased interest.
The restyled Savana 1500 Base is equipped with a 5.3-liter eight-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The Vortec engine is mated to a General Motors four-speed transmission. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 2007 version.
The fuel system for the 2008 Savana 1500 is a SFI design, using FLEX fuel. The fuel flow is controlled by a electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The fuel capacity of the fuel tank is 31.00 gallons.
The Savana 1500 uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The van uses torsion bar and leaf springs front and rear respectively.
The dimensions of the Savana 1500 Base are 79.40 inches wide by 224.10 inches long. It sits 81.60 inches off the ground. It seats a standard two passengers, with 4 doors. The wheelbase of 135.00 allows for extra leg room for the rear passengers.
The retail price (MSRP) was $23,575 when new. The dealer cost on the van was $21,571. This price was average compared to the industry average price for a 4-door Standard Cargo Van.
The Savana 1500 Base received an fuel efficiency rating of 17 MPG driving in the city and 23 when it came to highway driving. The flex-powered Savana 1500 is a green van.
The vehicle is available in Deep Blue Metallic, Fire Red, Onyx Black, Polo Green Metallic, Sand Beige Metallic, Silver Birch Metallic, Sport Red Metallic, Steel Gray Metallic, and Summit White.
The standard warranty period for the Savana 1500 is 36 months, or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is standard in the standard cargo van market.
There are several reasons why the GMC Savana 1500 Base sold well in 2008. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a GMC, specifically a Savana 1500.