Plenty of automakers advertise how their trucks are built for the worksite, but the true workhorses are panel vans like the 2021 GMC Savana Cargo van. The venerable work vehicle is a blank canvas for whatever your trade requires.

For 2021, the Savana gains a new 6.6-liter V8 engine. Derived from the Sierra Heavy Duty pickup line, this stout V8 makes 401horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque. The base engine is a 4.3-liter V6 that makes 276 hp and 298 lb-ft of torque. A 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine is also available, making 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.

The big V8 routes power through a six-speed heavy-duty automatic transmission. The gas V6 and Duramax diesel engine route power through an eight-speed automatic transmission. All versions of the Savana are rear-wheel drive (RWD). When properly equipped, the Savana Cargo can tow up to 10,000 pounds.

There are two levels, 2500 and 3500. Both are available in regular wheelbase and extended wheelbase configurations. The extended model boasts up to 283.6 cubic feet of cargo space. There are plenty of door/window configurations, including sliding doors, swing-out doors, and doors with windows. The windows feature Solar-Ray tinted glass, providing climate-controlled security and privacy.

While there are many possible configurations, the only trim for the Savana is Work Van. It comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, power doors, power windows, a 120-volt wall-style power outlet, AM/FM stereo with MP3 player, and vinyl seats with cloth headliner. Optional features include Bluetooth and USB connectivity, as well as a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot that can connect seven devices up to 50 feet away.

The Savana comes standard with front- and side-impact airbags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control, and hill start assist. Available safety features include a backup camera, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors.

Base MSRP for the 2021 GMC Savana Cargo Van is $33,795 for a 2500 regular wheelbase version. The 2500 extended wheelbase starts at $35,695. The 3500 regular wheelbase starts at $36,895, and the 3500 extended wheelbase starts at $37,695. There are multiple option packages designed for specific work uses, including ones that add creature comforts and communications equipment. There are even option packages specifically designed for vehicles intended to be used as hotel shuttles and even ambulances.