2023 GMC Savana 3500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2023 GMC Savana 3500 is the move to a gas-only engine lineup, with the diesel option dropped. Otherwise, this heavy-duty van carries over without a redesign or major styling, safety, technology, or structural updates.
About the 2023 GMC Savana 3500
1st generation (1996-2025), late-run year before the 2024 transmission update.
GMC positions the Savana as a flexible, capable full-size van family built for versatility, whether the job is hauling cargo, moving people, or supporting commercial use. In 3500 form, it is the heavier-duty Savana for bigger payloads and tougher shuttle work. Its main draw is simple, proven hardware, strong towing and load capability, and regular/extended wheelbase choices, not cutting-edge infotainment or luxury features.
The 2023 Savana 3500 remains a straightforward heavy-duty van for cargo hauling, shuttle service, and crew transport. Cargo vans come in regular- and extended-wheelbase forms with tie-down rings and a durable vinyl floor, while LS passenger vans focus on basic group transportation. LT passenger vans add comfort touches such as premium cloth upholstery, carpeting, keyless entry, and a center console.
What changed, by category
2023 GMC Savana 3500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 6.6 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 6.6 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 6.6 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 6.6 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 6.6 Liter | V6, 4.3 Liter / V8, 6.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 276–401 hp | 276–401 hp | 276–401 hp | 276–401 hp | 276–401 hp | 276–401 hp |
| Torque | 298–464 lb-ft | 298–464 lb-ft | 298–464 lb-ft | 298–464 lb-ft | 298–464 lb-ft | 298–464 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 10000 lb | 9600 lb | 9600 lb | 10000 lb | 9200 lb | 9200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 239.4 cu-ft | 218.5 cu-ft | 218.5 cu-ft | 283.6 cu-ft | 255.5 cu-ft | 255.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | 36.6 in | ||
| Seats | 5 | 12 | 12 | 5 | 15 | 15 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2023 GMC Savana 3500?
The biggest change is the move to a gas-only engine lineup. The rest of the van carries over without a major redesign or broad equipment update.
Does the 2023 GMC Savana 3500 have a diesel engine?
No. GMC dropped the diesel option for 2023, leaving the Savana 3500 with gas engines only.
What engines does the 2023 GMC Savana 3500 use?
The 2023 Savana 3500 has a standard 4.3-liter gas V6 and an optional 6.6-liter gas V8. A diesel engine is not part of the 2023 lineup.
Did the 2023 GMC Savana 3500 get new styling or technology?
No. The 2023 Savana 3500 received no major exterior styling or lineup-wide technology changes. It also carried over without broad safety or structural updates.
Is the 2023 GMC Savana 3500 significantly different from the 2022 model?
No. The main difference is that the 2023 model no longer has a diesel option. Its gas engines, regular- and extended-wheelbase bodies, cargo-van format, and LS and LT passenger trims otherwise continue.