Positioned in the middle of the midsize van market, the GMC Safari was designed to appeal to buyers who wanted a multipurpose van that boasts best-in-class towing capability, cruise range and cargo and seating capacity. The Safari competed primarily with its corporate near-twin, Chevrolet Astro, as well as with the Ford Aerostar and Windstar, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan.
Year-to-year changes[]
| 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 | 1995 | 1996 | 1997 | 1998 | 1999 | Discontinued |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 169" Cargo Van | N/A | 1994 | |||||||
| 177" Passenger Van | |||||||||
| 187" Cargo Van | Cargo Van | 2005 | |||||||
| 187" Passenger Van | Passenger Van | ||||||||
| 169" Cargo Van (AWD) | N/A | 1994 | |||||||
| 177" Passenger Van (AWD) | |||||||||
| 187" Cargo Van (AWD) | Cargo Van (AWD) | 2005 | |||||||
| 187" Passenger Van (AWD) | Passenger Van (AWD) | ||||||||
1994[]
The Safari had three trim levels: SLX (base), SLE (midlevel) and SLT (top of the line). In addition, the van was available in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. The Safari also benefited from a new standard engine. All models came equipped with an 4.3-liter ohv V6. The only transmission was a 4-speed automatic overdrive unit.
1995[]
The GMC Safari received a major facelift for 1995. The distinctive snub-nosed front end was upgraded with a new grille, hood, fenders and fascia. Upscale models were now equipped with aerodynamic composite headlights, while base models got conventional sealed beams. Also new this year were an integrated front airdam and body side moldings that would run from the front wheel opening to the rear bumper.
The new Safari was given more room as well. Regular body models were discontinued. This year, only extended body models were available, adding 10 in. to interior length.
Under the new skin, a number of other key changes were made as well. New springs and power-steering gears helped improve ride and handling, and air conditioning was now standard throughout the line.
25 more horsepower was added each for the SLX and base minivans.
Retail prices[]
As of December 17, 1993:
- $15,661 (1994 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van)
- $16,134 (1994 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van Extended)
- $16,746 (1994 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van)
- $17,048 (1994 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van Extended)
- $19,075 (1994 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van with all-wheel drive)
- $19,377 (1994 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van Extended with all-wheel drive)
As of late 1994:
- $17,855 (1995 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van)
- $18,358 (1995 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van)
- $20,558 (1995 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van with all-wheel drive)
As of August 1, 1995:
- $17,955 (1995 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van)
- $20,155 (1995 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van with all-wheel drive)
- $18,458 (1995 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van)
- $20,658 (1995 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van with all-wheel drive)
- $18,662 (1996 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van)
- $20,862 (1996 GMC Safari SL Cargo Van with all-wheel drive)
- $19,246 (1996 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van)
- $21,446 (1996 GMC Safari SLX Passenger Van with all-wheel drive)
Shipping prices[]
- $545 (1994 models)
- $555 (1995 models)
- $560 (1996 models)
Gallery[]
