2003 GMC Savana 6.0

Vehicle Overview

The second generation of the GMC Savana was introduced in 2003, and despite using some old components, it was a big evolution over its predecessor.

The light-utility vehicle term was different between the Asian, European, and American markets. A vehicle such as the GMC Savana would require a different driving license in Europe than in the U.S.A. In its passenger version, the Savana could accommodate up to 15 passengers; in Europe, a regular driver could carry up to eight occupants besides the one behind the wheel.

Big, chunky, and with bigger headlights, the Savana was available as a panel van or passenger van. It was used mainly as a shuttle bus for hotels, schools, and crew-carrier. It was a good choice for motorhome conversions for those who preferred to sleep in a camping area rather than in a hotel, and the straight body panels and the ladder-chassis underneath could withstand a heavy load.

The dashboard was flat and straight, similar to those used in trucks. That was the idea: to create an industrial look for a less family vehicle. On the other hand, it offered enough amenities to be used for weekend trips.

The 2003 Savana was the first generation that featured a 4×4 system, making it more suitable for use as a vehicle in mountain resorts. The independent front axle offered enough comfort for the driver, while the solid rear axle was tough enough to support heavy loads. It was available with manual or automatic transmissions.