2010 GMC Savana

The 2010 GMC Savana continues to soldier on as the brand's people moving workhorse, undergoing little change in well over a decade now. The Savana isn't going to wow you with amenities, but it will comfortably transport up to 15 people at a time. It's a solid choice for organizations and businesses needing to shuttle busloads of folks around. The Savana can also be ordered as a cargo van and conversion options are available.

The Savana continues to receive minor updates, including the recent addition of a six-speed automatic transmission for 2500 and 3500 models (a four speed auto is standard for the 1500). Available all-wheel-drive for the 1500 standard-wheelbase (135 inches) half-ton models is one of the Savana's top selling points. Add in the one-ton, 3500 series standard and long-wheelbase (155 inches) models, and the Savana can be configured for eight, 12 or 15 passengers.

In keeping with the Savana's mission, the base LS trim is a fleet-themed package that is more bare bones in its interior amenities. Step up to the LT and you get more convenience features consumers expect in modern vehicles. Options include a remote start and an upgraded audio system.

Bodystyles: Full-size vanEngines: 5.3L V-8, 6.0L V-8Transmissions: 4-speed automatic, 6-speed automaticModels: 1500, 2500, 3500, 3500 extended wheelbase (LS and LT trims)

Both of the Savana's V-8 engines are now E85 capable, and the 5.3-liter V-8 has received a slight boost to 310 horsepower. The 2500 and 3500 models now feature GM's six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission as standard equipment and their axle ratios have been revised to help improve low end torque and achieve slightly better highway mpg. A remote start option was also recently added to the option mix.

You're not going to mistake the Savana as anything more than a big, hulking van, with a massive front bumper and lots of glass in the Savana's greenhouse. A chrome appearance package is available and there's a choice of sliding or swing 60/40 passenger do

The Savana isn't exactly the most thrilling cabin in the world and it's a little Spartan, but it's clean and easy to navigate in the cockpit and options including power recline cloth bucket seats are available. The Savana has plenty of room overall, but l

The GMC Savana is powered by two engines with enough power to keep the people moving. A 310 horsepower, 5.3-.liter V-8 is standard for the 1500 models and the 6.0-liter V-8 with 323 horsepower propels the 2500 and 3500. While the 6.0-liter is mated GM's solid six-speed automatic, the 1500s continue to be saddled with a dated four-speed auto. The Savana is not surprisingly somewhat balky to drive, but 1500's power rack-and-pinion steering helps to keep things pointed in the right direction.

The Savana has received a five-star crash rating from the government in frontal crash tests, and the van has side curtain airbags for the first three rows of passengers. All Savanas come with four-wheel discs with ABS and of course GM's StabiliTrak stability system as standard equipment.

1500: 13 city/17mpg highway

• Decent ride for its size
• Available AWD
• Multiple engine options

• No tall roof option
• Outdated cabin
• Aging platform

Not bad for hauling humans

• Ford E-Series
• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter