Moving up to the heftier 2008 GMC Savana Cargo 2500 gets you a more powerful engine and greater towing capacity. A 4.8-liter, 279-hp V8 is standard, putting out 294 ft-lbs of torque at 4500 RPM. The extra power means you can tow up to 10,000 pounds with the optional tow package. Also available are a 6.0-liter, 323-hp V8 with 373 ft-lbs of torque, and a 6.6-liter, 250-hp turbodiesel V8 with 460 ft-lbs of torque. All come with a 4-speed automatic.

The 2008 Savana Cargo 2500 rides on the same 16-inch wheels with all-season tires as the 1500. The rear-wheel drive utility van offers a few more features, such as daytime running lights and automatic halogen headlamps. New this year is a tire pressure monitor. This joins other safety equipment, including 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, side impact beams, and dual front airbags. Side head airbags, mirrors with turn signals, halogen headlamps, a breakdown kit, locking rear differential, and rooftop lights are also available. The van earns five stars in frontal crash tests.

Seating two in one row of bucket seats, the 2008 Savana Cargo 2500's 135-inch wheelbase holds up to 267 cubic feet in the cargo area. The floor is lined with a rubber mat. Rear barn doors and a 60/40 hinged passenger side door provide access, with the opportunity to add a sliding side door or a driver's hinged door. Barebones equipment includes air conditioning, power steering, an updated trip computer, intermittent wipers, a security system, radio, tachometer, and two front power outlets and cupholders. Optional packages add power features, remote entry, heated mirrors, cloth seats, a CD player or CD changer, chrome exterior trim, splash guards, and tilt steering.