The 2003 Savana’s front end displays a new grille, bumper, fascia, hood and fenders. GM’s designers sought to create a stronger family resemblance to other members of the company’s truck family. Upscale reflector-type headlights are installed, and the taillamps have been revamped.

Light-duty vans now have rack-and-pinion steering, which promises greater agility. The rear suspensions use a solid axle with semielliptic, variable-rate multileaf springs and gas shocks. The tires now measure 16 inches in diameter, and the fuel tanks are made of composite material.

Passenger vans come in either regular or extended lengths. The regular-length model has a 135-inch wheelbase and measures 224.1 inches long overall, while the extended-length van is equipped with a 155-inch wheelbase and stretches 244.1 inches long overall. The vans are 79.4 inches wide and at least 81.6 inches tall. Cutaway models can be specially converted for commercial applications and may have 139- , 159- or 177-inch wheelbases.

GMC’s 1500 Series vans are rated with gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs) of 6,200 and 7,200 pounds, while the 2500 Series’ GVWRs rank at 7,300 or 8,500 pounds. Full-bodied 3500 Series vans are rated at 9,600 pounds GVWR.