Car Reviews: 1997 GMC Sonoma

In 1994, GM debuted an all-new family of pickup trucks, the GMC Sonoma and Chevrolet S-Series. Since then, GM has continued to upgrade the lines.

Last year's models came with stronger engines, more options and an extra

door. Refinements make this year's models even more sporty, fuel efficient,

comfortable and user friendly.

GMC offers one of the greatest variety of options on the market with

two- and four-wheel drive models, regular and extended cab versions, short

and long beds, seven different chassis packages and SL, SLS and SLE trim

levels.

Last year, a model with a third door debuted along with performance

improvements under the hood and a new ZX8 chassis package.

Now a popular choice, the third-door option for extended cabs was an

industry-first for compact trucks when GMC introduced it. A driver's-side

panel swings out to make it easier to load personal gear, pets and people.

The ZQ8 suspension is now available for regular and extended cab models.

Designed for performance enthusiasts, this street suspension package enhances

on-road handling and goes a long way toward making the Sonoma ride and

handle more like a car. The $700 ZQ8 package comes with springs that lower

the ride height, high-performance gas shock absorbers, urethane bounce

jumpers, front and rear stabilizer bars, specially tuned variable-ratio

power steering and wide eight-inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear P235/55R-16

tires. A locking differential enhances traction on paved surfaces.

Also new this year is an improved frame design on 2WD models, enhancements

to both the Vortec V6 and 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines, automatic transmission

upgrades for improved fuel economy and revised front half-shafts on 4WD

models.

Competitors for the GMC Sonoma and Chevrolet S-Series are the Ford Ranger,

Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Pickup, Mazda B-series, Dodge Dakota and Isuzu Hombre.

Our test model was the Sonoma SLS 4X4 short cab which came with the

$256 heavy duty suspension package that includes heavy duty springs and

shocks.

The Sonoma has a pleasant body style with a smooth, aerodynamic hood

that wraps around the front end. The stiff, four-sided ladder-type frame

dips in the center to make it easier to step up and step down when getting

in and out, yet keeps ground clearance at a maximum for off-pavement driving.

The frame was reinforced this year. The increased stiffness allows the

suspension to do its job properly, which results in an improved ride quality

and better handling.

Buyers have a choice of suspension packages to best suit their needs,

called Smooth Ride, High Payload, Off Road and Highrider. Distinctions

are size of shocks, wheel and tire package and the size of cab and cargo

box.

The Sonoma we tested came with GMC's $2,127 option package that included

the Vortec V6, aluminum wheels, wideside body, SLS Sport decor, air conditioning,

tilt steering column, cruise control, high-back front bucket seats, and

an AM/FM stereo with CD player and clock.

The Sportside Box adds flair and functionality. The floorboard is capped

in steel for greater durability. Special transparent tape protects the

vulnerable areas of both the box and the wheel wells to prevent stone chipping.

Like the regular box, the Sportside design features four 2x6-ft. plank

pockets, which can be used to create a raised deck for hauling wider loads.

This option is available with both regular and extended cabs and with either

two- or four-wheel drive, but is not available with the High Rider off-road

package.

Also new for '97 are plug-in half shafts, which simply plug in to the

differential unit to save seven to ten pounds in 4WD Sonomas. A serviceablility

and fuel efficiency benefit: A drain plug that has been added to the front

differential housing making it easier to change the fluid at home.

New exterior paint colors for '97 are Fairway Green, Smokey Caramel,

Radar Purple and Bright Teal.

The Sonoma's interior is roomy, comfortable and functional. The long,

wide body along with a thinner door design translates to greater shoulder,

hip and head room. Seat options include high-back bucket seats for two

passengers or a standard bench seat or reclining 60/40 split bench for

three.

Extended Cab Sonomas with automatic transmissions and bucket seats now

have the shifter located at the center console. Seats, as well as door

panels and carpet, are a Scotchguard stain-resistant fabric.

Models vary with the number of comfort and convenience features. In

addition to the features noted as a part of the Marketing Option Package,

ours was equipped with dual lighted visor mirrors, cup holders, passenger

assist grip and full floor carpeting with mats. Solar Ray tinted glass

($72) protects folks and fabrics from sun exposure and reduces heat. Sunvisors

with extensions for additional glare protection are a thoughtful addition.

A glove box, door pockets, and space behind the seats provide spartan but

basic stowage needs. Options for our test model also included power windows,

door locks and dual outside mirrors ($535) and an upgraded remote keyless

entry system ($140).

The Sonoma offers good visibility and an open, airy feel. A sloping

hood, narrow A-pillar and unobstructed views to the rear make for clear

views in all directions.

Analog displays of all engine functions are easily visible to the driver

with switches that are bold and easy-to-operate for sound and climate controls.

Although there are a variety of modern safety features in the Sonoma series,

including GM's standard daytime running lamps, only a driver's-side airbag

is available. The C/K full-size trucks received them for '97 and they will

be standard equipment in the compact pickups next year.

There was a lot we enjoyed about the Sonoma 4x4. As expected, ride quality

was a bit jouncy with the heavy duty suspension package. These trucks ride

much better with a cord of wood in back. The suspension does its job well

though when in its element--driving on rough terrain, carrying heavy loads

or pulling a trailer.

The V6 engine provided healthy throttle response across the power band,

which made everyday driving enjoyable and assisted with passing maneuvers.

Sonoma's two V6 engines were upgraded with sequential central port fuel

injection and now offer the best available combination of power and torque

in the compact pickup truck class. Our Sonoma 4x4 served up a robust 190

hp at 4400 rpm and 250 lbs.-ft. of torque at 2800 rpm.

The base 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine has an improved, yet simplified

powertrain control module, which improves reliability and simplifies troubleshooting.

An improved starter motor enhances reliability.

Our SLS was equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive

and electronic control, a $1,070 option. The transmission has been improved

this year with a new hydraulic pump that delivers up to 20 percent more

output. Aluminum valves help reduce leakage and improve internal oil flow

and a new clutch-plate design increases efficiency.

Sonoma's electronic transfer case called Insta-Trac is a dream to operate.

Simply push a button to shift into high- or low-range and you're ready

for tough terrain. A high ground clearance, a locking differential, aggressive

tires, gas-pressure shocks and heavy duty multi-leaf rear springs produced

positive results during our off-road excursions. The Off Road Package is

designed for the serious.

The brakes worked well, though the pedal felt soft at the top third

of its travel, a trait common with GM trucks. The truck will stop, but

the driver learns to use the brake pedal with authority. The four-wheel

anti-lock brakes work well when engaged.

The Sonoma line is one of the most versatile compact trucks on the market

with models and options to suit a wide range of drivers.