2007 GMC Savana

2007 GMC SAVANA ADDS GM FLEXFUEL 5.3L V-8 POWERPLANT TO ALREADY-IMPRESSIVE LINEUP

GMC Savana's popularity can be directly traced to its versatility: It's a proven passenger hauler – able to accommodate up to 15 passengers – it's a reliable and durable commercial cargo van; and it forms the foundation for conversion vans. The different needs for different customers are expertly handled by a myriad of powerplants, including a Vortec FlexFuel 5.3L V-8 engine.

'The 5.3L (L59) engine gives our GMC Savana customers the choice to fill up their vehicle with a homegrown, renewable energy source that burns cleaner than fossil fuels and can help reduce our dependence on oil,' said Ray Chess, vehicle line executive.

PowertrainsThe Vortec 5.3L V-8 delivers 295 horsepower (220 kW) and 335 lb.-ft. of torque (454 Nm), resulting in segment-leading acceleration. The Vortec 5.3Lis the standard engine in G1500 and H1500 Passenger models, and in H1500 Cargo and Conversion models.

Customers also can order a GM FlexFuel E85 version of the Vortec 5.3L. It delivers the same horsepower and torque as its gasoline counterpart, while running on E85 ethanol fuel or a mixture of E85 and gasoline. E85 is comprised of 85 percent ethanol, which is a renewable resource fuel produced domestically.

In addition to the Vortec 5.3L, GMC Savana offers four other engines.

The 195-horsepower (145 kW) Vortec 4.3L V-6 with multiport fuel injection is the base engine for light-duty Savana Cargo. A central fuel injector delivers a separate flow of fuel to six individual hybrid injectors for better performance and improved emissions.

The Vortec 4.8L V-8 cranks out 285 horsepower (213 kW) and is used for heavy duty applications in the 2500 Series cargo vans.

Those seeking more power can opt for the Vortec 6.0L – the segment's most powerful V-8. It delivers 300 horsepower (257 kW) and 360 lb.-ft. of torque (515 Nm).

Duramax power


With the Duramax 6.6L, Savana's maximum GVWR is 12,300 pounds (5,590 kg), with a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds (4,545 kg) – specifications that meet or exceed those of the primary competitor. A 3.73 axle ratio is standard and the RPO G80 limited-slip differential is optional.

Quietness and smoothness, particularly at idle, are traits designed into the Duramax 6.6L. They've been enhanced in this engine, thanks to a strengthened iron cylinder block and revised piston design that reduces the compression ratio. The lower compression reduces the 'clattering' sound of the engine at idle, while also helping to improve overall smoothness during driving. The lower compression also helps reduce NOx emissions.

Even the engine's turbocharging system is revised for quieter, more efficient performance. A variable-geometry turbocharger with aerodynamically tuned impellers is used to enhance full-throttle response while also contributing to reducing emissions. Also, the variable-geometry turbocharger is used in cold weather to enhance heater warm-up (similar to GM medium duty trucks).

To support the powertrain, Savana models equipped with the Duramax 6.6L also include:


- Revised front floor panel and underbody heat shielding
- New interior engine cover
- High idle switch added to instrument panel (optional)
- Instrument cluster revised to reflect diesel engine functionality
- Standard 145-amp alternator
- Primary battery located underhood, with secondary battery mounted on left-hand frame rail
- Ambulance package equipped with a 50-amp Maxifuse connector at the B-pillar
A fuel-operated heater (FOH) also is available for vans equipped with the Duramax 6.6L – the industry's first factory-installed application for full-size vans. It quickly provides heat to the vehicle interior in cold weather. The seamlessly integrated system is designed into the Savana chassis, saving customers the time and labor of upfitting an aftermarket system.

The electronically controlled fuel-operated heater operates automatically, turning on and off within load parameters that include outside air temperature, fuel level, coolant temperature and whether the engine is running. It features a self-contained, pressurized auxiliary coolant heater (with a surge tank) that uses diesel fuel to generate up to 17,200 Btu/h (5 kW) of heating energy.

A new government-mandated emissions regulation for diesel engines manufactured beginning January 2007 applies to all diesel-powered medium- and light duty vehicles. This new regulation requires a reduction of NOx and particulate matter (soot) by 90 percent, compared with the current standard (established in 2004).

GM has developed approaches that are cost-effective and package-efficient, and includes the following 6.6L V8 modifications for emissions:

- Structural improvements
- High-pressure fuel system updates
- Additional combustion control, including variable-geometry turbocharging system, cooled (enhanced) Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and closed crankcase ventilation
- Additional exhaust control, including oxidizing catalyst and new Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
- Increased-capacity cooling system
- New engine control software
GM will issue press materials on the updates to the 6.6L Duramax and diesel particulate filter (for January 2007) later in 2006.

Tow/haul mode

For greater ease during heavy-duty towing and hauling applications, Savana features GM's unique tow/haul mode. It reduces the frequency and improves the predictability of transmission shifts when pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load.

Savana advantages

Savana also benefits from continual refinements to an already solid structure. The three-piece frame features fully boxed sections for superior strength and rigidity, while extended and tapered front frame rails are used for improved crashworthiness. Also, additional tubular frame cross members are used to increase torsional stiffness.

Confidence behind the wheel is enhanced with a standard four-wheel antilock disc brake system with Hydroboost. This system works with a high-volume brake master cylinder to provide increased stopping power with an easy, linear feel on the brake pedal. Dynamic rear proportioning also is used and helps apply the correct amount of pressure to the rear wheels, depending on whether the van is loaded. GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard on passenger models.

Thoughtful details are found throughout Savana – items that become important to customers who use their van as a mobile office. This includes supportive front seats, excellent interior lighting, glove-friendly door handles, convenient storage pockets, secondary power outlets and durable carpeting. Also, an industry-first 60/40-split left-hand side-hinged door provides the segment's most flexible loading capability. It is available on regular-length cargo vans and offers complete driver's side access to the second-row and/or seats or cargo compartment.

Model lineup

Savana comes in both regular (135-inch / 3,429 mm) and extended (155-inch / 3,937 mm) wheelbase lengths, and can accommodate eight, 12 or 15 people. Cargo vans, available in the same wheelbase lengths, offer seating for two. The cutaways, which can be converted to various commercial, school bus and RV requirements, are available in 139-inch (3,531 mm), 159-inch (4,039 mm) and 177-inch (4,496 mm) wheelbase lengths.

The 1500 Series vans include light duty models rated at 7,200-pounds (3,266-kg) GVW. The 2500 Series includes heavy-duty models rated at 8,600 pounds (3,901 kg) GVW. The heavy-duty 3500 Series includes full-bodied cargo/passenger vans rated at 9,600 pounds (4,354 kg) GVW, and commercial and RV cutaway chassis, with GVW ratings of 9,600 to14,050 pounds (4,354 to 6,372 kg).

Source - GMC