2009 GMC Savana 3500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2009 GMC Savana 3500 is the addition of six configurations covering cargo and passenger-van duties. Beyond that lineup expansion, the van carries over without major mechanical, styling, safety, tech, or structural updates.
About the 2009 GMC Savana 3500
First-generation Savana/Express full-size van (introduced for 1996), in its long-running post-2003 update phase and one year after the 2008 interior and safety refresh.
The 2009 Savana 3500 is GMC’s heavy-duty full-size van for buyers who need simple, proven capacity more than modern packaging. GMC markets Savana around safety, durability and utility: a big van that can either haul tools in cargo form or move large groups in passenger form. Its main appeal is straightforward work capability—rear-drive heavy-duty hardware, strong V8 power in passenger models, a big boxy interior, and a design that is easy for fleets, churches, shuttle operators and tradespeople to put to use.
The 2009 Savana 3500 ranges from straightforward two-seat cargo vans to heavy-duty passenger models built for shuttle and group-hauling work. Passenger versions use a 6.0-liter V8 and a four-speed automatic, while LT models add comfort features such as rear air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, and keyless entry. Extended-body models provide more room for cargo or passenger-hauling needs.
What changed, by category
2009 GMC Savana 3500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6L | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6L | V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, 6.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd HD w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 319 hp | 319 hp | 250–319 hp | 250–319 hp | 319 hp | 319 hp |
| Torque | 367 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 294–460 lb-ft | 294–460 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7700 lb | 7700 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb | 7400 lb | 7400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 217.3 cu-ft | 217.3 cu-ft | 267.3 cu-ft | 316.8 cu-ft | 252.6 cu-ft | 252.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | 39.8 in | ||
| Seats | 12 | 12 | 2 | 2 | 15 | 15 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Stability Control | ||||||
| Traction Control | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| AM/FM Radio | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| 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
Was the 2009 GMC Savana 3500 redesigned?
No. The 2009 Savana 3500 was not redesigned; it remained part of the first-generation van line and carried over its basic design from 2008.
Which configurations were added to the 2009 GMC Savana 3500 lineup?
Six configurations were added for 2009: base, Extended, LS, LS Extended, LT, and LT Extended. The base and Extended models serve cargo duty, while LS and LT versions focus on passenger hauling.
Did the 2009 GMC Savana 3500 get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2009 Savana 3500 received no lineup-wide powertrain change, and passenger versions continued with a 6.0-liter V8 and heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission.
Did safety equipment change on the 2009 GMC Savana 3500?
No. GMC added no new standard safety features for 2009. Passenger versions continued with stability control and head-curtain side airbags introduced in the previous year’s update.
How do the 2009 Savana 3500 cargo and passenger versions differ?
The cargo versions have two front seats, durable flooring, and an open rear work area, while the passenger versions are set up for group transportation. LT passenger models add conveniences such as rear air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, and keyless entry.