General Motors sells its commercially-oriented full-size van under two nameplates. The Chevrolet Express has been a familiar sight on American roads since the ‘90s, both as a people-mover and a work vehicle for thousands of small businesses across the country. There is also a mechanically identical GMC-badged version called the Savana. The older Savana platform largely continues into 2018 unchanged. There is one major update under the hood in the form of the new base engine, a 4.3-liter V-6. This year also adds a reversing camera as standard equipment and a blind-spot monitor as an optional extra. The Savana Cargo, which is the spacious commercial version of the Savana, is available in either 2500 or 3500 configurations, and it costs between $30,000 and $40,000. While an extended wheelbase is available, neither all-wheel drive (AWD) nor a high-roof body are available.

The new 4.3-liter 6-cylinder with an 8-speed automatic for the Savana will be more than adequate for hauling around light loads, but, for buyers doing significant hauling or towing, the 8-cylinder version is a better choice. It’s a 6-liter Vortec that can tow up to 10,000 pounds and shifts through a 6-speed automatic. There is also a turbodiesel 2.8-liter 4-cylinder that puts out 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Regardless of engine choice, the Savana is rear-wheel drive (RWD) only. Only the V-8 version has gotten EPA ratings, and it manages just 11 mpg city, 16 highway, and 13 combined in 2500 form and 11, 16, and 12 in 3500 form.

The commercially-oriented Cargo version of the Savana is predictably on the plain side when it comes to comfort and convenience, but it is available with the same options as the Passenger versions. Standard features include vinyl upholstery, air conditioning, an auxiliary port, power windows, and a reversing camera. Optional extras include the MyLink infotainment system, navigation, parking sensors, USB port, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an engine block heater for colder climates.

Behind the seats, the Savana is cavernous. The regular length 2500 can hold up to 240 cubic feet of cargo, while an extended length 3500 will cram in 284.4 cubic feet.

The current Savana/Express has not been crash tested, but OnStar comes standard and available safety features include blind-spot monitor, hill-start assist, and rear parking sensors. GM’s full-size van has proven itself to be both dependable and durable, important qualities for customers who rely on their vans for work.