A configurator is still available for the nearly 30-year-old van
“They don’t make them like they used to?” Well, GMC certainly does. The Savana remains largely unchanged since it first rolled off the assembly line in early 1996. This full-size passenger van, launched alongside the Chevrolet Express nearly 30 years ago, is still in production for the 2025 model year. According to earlier reports, this might be the final chapter for both models—but for now, the Savana lives on.
You can even customize one using GMC’s configurator. Pricing starts at $49,245, a $2,450 bump over the previous year. While paying fifty grand for a van with halogen lights and 16-inch steel wheels might seem steep, it’s not unreasonable when adjusted for inflation. With its long history and straightforward design, the Savana has earned a reputation for durability. The old-school upright dashboard serves as a vivid reminder of just how timeless this van truly is.
When automakers keep a model in production well beyond the typical life cycle, the lineup is often stripped-down. However, GMC still provides some variety for the Savana. Buyers can choose between two trims (LS and LT) and two gasoline engines: a 4.3-liter V6 or a 6.6-liter V8. While the Savana once offered inline-four and V8 Duramax diesel options, it’s been exclusively gas-powered for several years now. Exterior color choices are limited to Summit White, Cardinal Red, Onyx Black, and Quicksilver Metallic, along with an optional white finish for the steel wheels.
Inside, features like six-way power-adjustable front seats add a touch of comfort. Upgrading to the Savana 3500 (starting at $52,145) unlocks access to the long-wheelbase version for $52,945, which can seat up to 15 passengers. Optional extras are reasonably priced, with a passenger-side sliding door for $195, an engine block heater for $100, a 220-amp alternator for $75, an automatic locking rear differential for $325, and side steps for $795.
Additional features cost extra as well. Rear window defogger is $155, remote start $300, a digital rearview mirror $675, blind spot monitoring $395, and keyless entry $225. Bluetooth adds $200, displaying the outside temperature in the instrument cluster is $10, and a dual-note horn costs just $15.
When automakers keep a model in production well beyond the typical life cycle, the lineup is often stripped-down. However, GMC still provides some variety for the Savana. Buyers can choose between two trims (LS and LT) and two gasoline engines: a 4.3-liter V6 or a 6.6-liter V8. While the Savana once offered inline-four and V8 Duramax diesel options, it’s been exclusively gas-powered for several years now. Exterior color choices are limited to Summit White, Cardinal Red, Onyx Black, and Quicksilver Metallic, along with an optional white finish for the steel wheels.
The body-on-frame, rear-wheel-drive Savana remains available for the 2025 model year as both a passenger and cargo van, with cargo versions priced between $43,695 and $48,445. GMC also offers a cutaway version, though pricing for 2025 hasn’t been announced—the 2024 model started at under $40,000.
It’s worth noting that the Savana isn’t the oldest vehicle still in production. Toyota continues to build the Land Cruiser Series 70, originally launched in 1984, complete with features like a fender mirror. While the rugged SUV has received updates over the years, it’s still fundamentally the same J70 introduced four decades ago. The Lada Niva off-roader is even older, having been in production since 1977.
