Used GMC Safari for Sale near Ames, IA
GMC Safari Overview
About as likely to be seen in the African savanna as its sibling Chevy Astro was to be traversing the moon, nevertheless the GMC Safari was both a comfortable minivan and a powerful hauler, thanks to the extra heft that came from its truck-based platform and rear-wheel drive (car-based minivans were front-wheel drive). Released in 1990 along with the Astro, the Safari Passenger Van originally fit five passengers in two rows of seats and was available as either a base, SLE, or SLT trims.
The trim names didn't change, but over the years the Safari Passenger gained all-wheel drive capability and more convenience features, such as power windows and locks, cruise control, automatic headlights, and daytime running lights, and the SLT even offered leather seats. A 4.3 V6 engine gained horsepower over the years, capping at 190-hp in 1995. The four-speed automatic was revised in 2000 to include a tow-haul mode. Also in 2000, a third row bench seat became available, for seating up to eight people while still leaving about 40 cubic feet of cargo room. For more versatility and passenger comfort, second row captain's chairs could substitute for the bench seat starting in 2001.
Though boxier than most minivans, the GMC Safari's dimensions allowed it to hold more cargo than many of its competitors. A roof rack and trailer hitch were optional, and unlike other minivans, the Safari Passenger was able to tow 5400 pounds behind it. A passenger side sliding door was added in 1994, though access to the back rows remained difficulty and awkward. Rear access was through dual rear doors or Dutch doors that featured an independently-opening rear window. Like its sister Astro, the GMC Safari was discontinued in 2005, mostly due to poor sales and GM's unwillingness to invest money in making safety changes. Despite poor resale value, low mpg, and seat access, owners liked the handling, power, and roominess of the Safari.
4.1 Overall rating
(49 reviews)Well built rig, just watch for aging symptoms.
In my mind the GMC Safari Van is one of the most versitile vehicles that was available. It is solidly built and utilitarian, but is still comfortable enogh for every day life. The 4.3L V6 has enough power to pull loads that are in the range of pick-up trucks. We have used our van to pull a full size pick-up on a full car trailer and still have enogh power to pass those slower cars. The throttle response is a little slow at times, but when it does kick in it will accelerate very quickly when not loaded. With the bucket seats in the second row makes it is very comfortable on longer drives. Interior is rugged, but nice enogh that it isn't sore on the eyes. Only a few problems with the a/c ,but that is not unusual for most vehicles of this age. On the outside this type of van looks good. The one we have has the running boards and slight fender flares, which makes it look lower and cleaner. The major down side to this type of van is the lesser gas milage that it gets. Some of the other downsides of larger vehicles apply to this van. Large blindspots and larger turning circle are two of the biggest problems, but if you can deal with these this is a great vehicle. When you can get your groceries, a couple sheets of ply wood, some 2x4's, tow a camper trailer, and get the kids from sports its a great all round vehicle.
This van does not have the prettiest design in the world. It takes forever to pick up speed and shakes above 60. The brake-lines are all connected and seem to fail more than they should. It's got bad gas mileage, but it doesn't take much to keep it running. The best part of this vehicle, other than sitting way up, is the durability. Once someone ran into me head on and crumpled their front end. My van didn't even get a ding. I took it down two tracks and even jumped some hills with it. If your engine lasts, you won't be able to break this thing.
CONVERSION VAN. Excellent for family travel. In spite of what many others say, we never had any major repairs in last 9 years. The only repair was the actuator(?) on driver door stopped working and couldn't up/down the powered window glass. Had to be replaced for $72.
Rides smoothly. Plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Love the blinds and curtains in interior. Easy to clean and maintain. Awesome traveling accessories that is comfortable and roomy.beautiful little van that is dependable amnd fun for everyday driving and extensive travelling.
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