2009 GMC Savana 1500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2009 GMC Savana 1500 is the addition of LS, LT, and Base trims. Beyond that lineup change, there are no major updates to the engines, transmission, styling, safety equipment, or cabin technology.
About the 2009 GMC Savana 1500
2nd-generation Savana full-size van (2003 redesign), in the period after the 2008 cabin/safety update and before the 2010 powertrain update for other parts of the Savana range.
GMC positions the Savana as a professional-grade full-size van built for straightforward people-hauling or work duty. In 1500 form, its identity is simple: truck-based mechanicals, a large boxy body with wide side and rear openings, strong passenger-van V8 power, and available all-wheel drive on applicable 1500 models. Against newer van rivals, the Savana’s appeal is durability, simplicity, and proven utility rather than modern styling or high-tech cabin features.
The 2009 Savana 1500 comes as a straightforward two-seat cargo van or an eight-passenger van. Passenger LS and LT models use a 5.3-liter V8, with LT adding comfort features such as rear air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, and keyless entry; the Base cargo van provides 225.1 cubic feet of cargo room and side swing-out doors.
What changed, by category
2009 GMC Savana 1500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.3 Liter | V8, 5.3 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 5.3 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | RWD / AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 13 mpg | 14–15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 18–20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 301 hp | 301 hp | 195–301 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft | 260–325 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6100 lb | 6100 lb | 5900 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 217.3 cu-ft | 217.3 cu-ft | 267.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.6 in | 37.6 in | |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | |||
| Stability Control | |||
| Traction Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| AM/FM Radio | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Rear Air Conditioning | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 GMC Savana 1500?
The biggest change is the addition of LS, LT, and Base trims. The van otherwise carries over without a major mechanical, styling, safety, or technology update.
Did the 2009 GMC Savana 1500 get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2009 Savana 1500 keeps its existing gas-engine lineup and four-speed automatic transmission. Passenger LS and LT models use a 5.3-liter V8.
What is the difference between the 2009 Savana 1500 LS and LT?
The LS is the simpler eight-passenger version, while the LT adds more everyday comfort equipment. LT features include cloth front bucket seats, rear air conditioning, a rear heater, power accessories, cruise control, and keyless entry.
Was the 2009 GMC Savana 1500 redesigned?
No. The 2009 Savana 1500 remains part of the second generation introduced for 2003, and it receives no major styling, structural, or cabin redesign for this model year.
What safety equipment does the 2009 Savana 1500 passenger van have?
The 2009 Savana 1500 passenger van has stability control and head-curtain airbags covering the first three rows. These features carry over rather than being new for 2009.