2023 GMC Savana Passenger Van Performance

The GMC Savana Passenger Van's 0-60 sprint and top speed are unimportant in view of its intended role, so GMC doesn't quote any figures. Of far more significance is its ability to shoulder any load with ease. The base 276-hp V6 engine does a fine job and is perfectly adequate for everyday use, with the eight-speed automatic making the most of the available power. It may be insufficient for hauling big payloads or trailering duty, though, and is limited to a maximum towing capacity of 6,700 pounds. If you're going to make use of the Savana's ability to tow up to 9,600 pounds, the 401-hp V8 is the engine of choice. It still uses an old-school heavy-duty six-speed automatic, but such is the torque of the engine that it doesn't matter, and the V8 always seems to have power in reserve. The maximum payload belongs to the 3500 Regular Wheelbase V6 and is 3,540 lbs. Though it has a generous minimum ground clearance of 8.6 inches, the Savana cannot venture off-road because it's RWD, with no AWD option available.

With the discontinuation of the 2.8L four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, there are only two powertrains this year. The standard engine in the GMC Savana Passenger Van is a 4.3L gas V6 with 276 hp and 298 lb-ft of torque, connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The optional engine is a 6.6L gas V8 with 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque, connected to a heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is the only drivetrain configuration available, unlike most of its rivals, which also offer all-wheel-drive options. An Eaton automatically locking rear differential is optionally available.

The EPA does not evaluate large people movers such as this one, so although no official estimates are available for the gas mileage of GMC Savana Passenger Van, those mpg figures will be heavy by dint of the big gas engines, poor aerodynamics, and high weight of this truck-based van. Real-world experience seems to suggest that the V6 should return anything between 14 and 19 mpg in general use, with the V8's figures varying from 12 to 15 mpg on average. Thanks to a big 31-gallon fuel capacity, this will enable the V6 to achieve a range of as much as 589 miles on a tank, but the V8 is probably going to max out at around 465 miles in normal use - and significantly less when towing.