2007 GMC Savana Cargo Van Review
The Chevrolet Express and the GMC Savana are twin vans that debuted in 1997. They replaced the ancient Sportvan, and gave challenge to the equally old Ford Econoline. Both were updated in 2003, with expanded engine options, improved brakes, a beefier frame, and available all-wheel drive.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The GMC Savana Cargo Van is a spacious work vehicle with plenty of options to suit passenger or cargo needs. Unfortunately, it’s a dated design that lacks in features, engine power, and payload capacity. Ford and Dodge both offer better alternatives.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Express earned 5 stars in government frontal crash tests. Other scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes come standard. The 3500 includes standard stability control, but it is not an option on the 1500.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems affecting the Express/Savana include engine overheating, engine knock, hesitations, and vibrations. It’s been recalled nine times since 2003 for issues such as faulty brake lights, non-latching safety belts, and weak power steering hoses. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Numerous options
+ Plenty of cargo room
+ Powerful engine for its class
Cons
– Poor fuel efficiency
– Expensive for this segment
– Mediocre payload capacity
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Dodge Caravan Cargo Van costs $1,000 less, adds a CD player, and gets four more miles to the gallon. The 2008 Ford E-Series Van E-150 has an eight-cylinder engine with 30 more hp and can carry 1,500 more pounds. Another alternative is the Chevrolet Express Cargo Van, which is practically identical.
What Others Are Saying:
“Like other large vans, Savana and Express have all the room most users will ever need, though sheer bulk makes them thirsty for fuel, a handful in traffic, and too big for some garages. Available AWD, StabiliTrak antiskid system, driver-side 60/40 door, and side access panels are useful features. Even without those, GM’s vans get the Best Buy nod because they are quieter overall than Ford’s Econoline, which matches them in virtually every other measure.” – Consumer Guide Automotive
“These (Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana) great big boxes on wheels are mostly intended for tradespeople and shuttle services. Available in equip-to-suit cargo versions or with passenger capacities ranging from 8 to 15, they’re of little interest for private use except in conversion-van configurations.” – Car and Driver
“The van is a practical giant that doesn’t have to make a fashion statement.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2007 GMC Savana Cargo Van at the GMC manufacturer web site.
