Ford Transit vs. GMC Savana: Which Is the Best Delivery Van for Canadian Businesses?

Choosing the right delivery van can make a major impact on your business’s productivity and operating costs. Two of the most common commercial vans on Canadian roads today are the Ford Transit and the GMC Savana. Each has a strong reputation for reliability and performance, but they suit different types of delivery work. Below, we break down how they compare so you can choose the best fit for your fleet.

Cargo Space and Interior Design

The Ford Transit stands out for its flexible configurations and impressive cargo space. With multiple roof heights—especially the high-roof option that allows most people to stand upright—the Transit gives businesses far more usable vertical room for shelving, parcels, and equipment. Its squared-off interior also makes upfitting clean and efficient.

The GMC Savana offers a more traditional cargo area with a single roof height and less overall space. While still practical for deliveries, it lacks the versatility and interior volume many modern delivery operations rely on.

Power, Payload, and Towing

If your delivery work involves heavier loads, the GMC Savana shines. With strong payload and towing ratings, it behaves more like a work truck than a cargo van. Its simple, proven V8-based platform provides plenty of strength for equipment hauling or demanding routes.

The Ford Transit still offers solid capability, but its main advantages are drivability and efficiency rather than raw power.

Fuel Efficiency and Operating Costs

Fuel efficiency is one of the biggest long-term costs for delivery fleets. The Transit generally offers better fuel economy thanks to its modern powertrain options, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent driving or urban routes.

The Savana’s older-style engine platform is durable and straightforward to maintain, but typically uses more fuel—something to factor in for high-mileage operations.

Driver Comfort and Daily Usability

The Ford Transit delivers a more comfortable and modern driving experience overall. Better visibility, a higher interior height, and updated technology make long delivery days easier on drivers—especially when entering and exiting the cargo area frequently.

The Savana offers a simpler, more utility-focused cabin. It’s reliable and sturdy but lacks the ergonomic advantages and refinements of the Transit.

Winter Driving Performance

Canadian winters demand reliable traction. With available AWD, the Ford Transit offers stronger performance in snow, slush, and icy conditions. The GMC Savana, typically rear-wheel drive, still performs well with proper winter tires, but it can’t match the confidence of an AWD system in more challenging weather.

Reliability and Long-Term Ownership

The GMC Savana has earned a reputation for long-term durability and low maintenance costs. Its simpler mechanical design is easy for shops to service and tends to be more predictable over time.

The Transit is also dependable but comes with more advanced electronics and technology, which may result in higher repair costs as the vehicle ages. Many businesses still find the savings in fuel and efficiency worthwhile.

The Ford Transit is typically the better choice for businesses that need more cargo space, improved fuel efficiency, a comfortable driver experience, and strong winter performance. It’s ideal for parcel delivery, service routes, last-mile operations, and any business relying on flexible upfitting.

The GMC Savana is a strong fit for companies that move heavier loads, prefer a simpler mechanical platform, or want predictable long-term maintenance. Its durability and truck-like performance make it well-suited for demanding delivery work.

Somerville National Leasing works with businesses across Canada to source the right delivery vans for their operations. Whether you need a Ford Transit, GMC Savana, or any other commercial vehicle, our team can help you compare options, explore pricing, and configure the right solution for your fleet.

We offer:

• Flexible leasing and financing
   
• Short-term and long-term commercial rentals
   
• Custom upfitting and work-ready builds
   
• National delivery and support across Canada
   

Connect with our team to explore delivery-ready cargo vans for your business.