2016 GMC Savana 2500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important 2016 change is that Savana 2500 passenger vans gain six standard airbags. This is otherwise a light update, with revised cabin technology and added gas powertrains but no redesign or broad mechanical overhaul.
About the 2016 GMC Savana 2500
2nd-generation Savana full-size van, late-cycle year on the long-running 2003-updated body/chassis design.
GMC positions the Savana as a straightforward professional-grade full-size van for moving people, tools, or bulky cargo. Its appeal is old-school but useful: rear-wheel drive, V8-based capability, strong towing and payload potential, easy-access side and rear doors, and a shape that works well for commercial upfits. Compared with newer European-style vans, the Savana leans more toward durability, familiar truck-like hardware, and simple controls than cutting-edge packaging or cabin design.
The 2016 Savana 2500 spans basic cargo vans, long-body work vans and 12-passenger LS and LT models. Diesel cargo versions use a 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8, while the Extended body provides extra load room. The LT is the more comfort-focused passenger model, with cloth seats, rear heating and air conditioning, cruise control and keyless entry.
What changed, by category
2016 GMC Savana 2500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6 Liter | V8, 4.8 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0L / V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter | V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Diesel | Gas / Natural Gas / Flexible Fuel | Diesel |
| MPG City | 11 mpg | 11 mpg | ||||
| MPG Highway | 16–17 mpg | 16–17 mpg | ||||
| Horsepower | 282–329 hp | 282–329 hp | 282–329 hp | 260 hp | 282–329 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 295–373 lb-ft | 295–373 lb-ft | 320–373 lb-ft | 525 lb-ft | 320–373 lb-ft | 525 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 9800 lb | 9800 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb | 10000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 216.2 cu-ft | 216.2 cu-ft | 270.4 cu-ft | 270.4 cu-ft | 313.9 cu-ft | 313.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | ||||
| Seats | 12 | 12 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 GMC Savana 2500?
The biggest change is six standard airbags for the LS and LT passenger vans. The rest of the 2016 updates are relatively modest, mainly involving passenger-van technology and the addition of gas powertrains to several trims.
Did the 2016 GMC Savana 2500 passenger van get more safety equipment?
Yes. The 2016 LS and LT passenger vans have six standard airbags, including front-seat side airbags and head-curtain airbags covering the first three seating rows.
What technology changed in the 2016 Savana 2500 LS and LT?
The 2016 LS and LT gain a standard touchscreen, navigation and satellite radio. GMC also expands their connectivity choices with 4G LTE Wi-Fi.
Did the 2016 Savana 2500 cargo van change much from 2015?
No. Cargo versions receive only minor equipment updates, with no broad styling, chassis or suspension change. The diesel cargo models continue with a 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 and six-speed automatic transmission.
Was the 2016 GMC Savana 2500 redesigned?
No. The 2016 Savana 2500 continues the same long-running body and chassis design, with no major exterior or structural update.