Overview & Reviews

While the compact pickup truck segment exploded in popularity during the late 1970s, the American automakers were initially MIA. GMC got with the program in the early '80s with its S-15 pickup, which quickly found itself in the thick of the action. Eventually renamed the GMC Sonoma, this truck was affordable, versatile and a lot easier on gas and in tight parking situations than a full-size pickup.

Although the S-15 and Sonoma were in production for more than two decades, there were just two generations. Considering that the first generation ended back in the early '90s, most used-pickup shoppers will be looking at the second generation. This Sonoma was a definite improvement over the earlier model, as it boasted more power and convenience features. Still, the Sonoma's lack of overall development compared to its constantly improving domestic and Japanese rivals makes it hard to recommend.

Most Recent GMC Sonoma

The second-generation GMC Sonoma was produced from 1994-2004. It was offered in regular, extended and (later on) crew cab bodies with short and long beds. Engine choices included a 2.2-liter four-cylinder (118 horsepower), a 4.3-liter V6 (165 hp) and the Vortec 4.3-liter V6 (195 hp). All three engines were available with either five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, and four-wheel drive was optional.

Trim levels typically consisted of base SL, midlevel SLS and luxury SLE. The SL was a stripper with vinyl bench seating and the SLS added cloth upholstery, air-conditioning, cruise control, foglights and alloy wheels. The SLE added chrome exterior trim, more luxurious seating and full power accessories.

The aptly-named Highrider package was available in '94 and turned the Sonoma into a serious off-road rig thanks to its wider track, 3-inch increase in ground clearance, beefed-up suspension, big tires and skid plates.

The Sportside bed arrived in 1996 along with the optional three-door access cab that aided loading cargo, pets or an unfortunate passenger into the rear compartment with its fold-down jump seat. This year also brought standard ABS for all GMC Sonoma models as well as the available "ZQ8" sport suspension package that featured 16-inch alloy wheels (versus the stock 15s), quicker steering and a lower ride height.

Unfortunately, safety and interior build quality weren't strong points with the Sonoma. A driver airbag became available in 1995, but there was no passenger protection until the 1998 update. The cabin was comprised chiefly of hard plastics, a glaring fault that was mentioned in virtually every review of this truck. For these reasons we'd steer clear of these early second-generation Sonomas.

A better option might be to look at the later models that underwent the midcycle '98 freshening; this included more aggressive front styling and an improved interior with dual airbags. The only other major change for this generation's run was 2001's new four-door crew cab model with five-passenger capacity.

The GMC Sonoma was seemingly loaded with value and versatility for the compact pickup truck buyer, but we were never thrilled with it. The revised interior featured good ergonomics, but the materials were still low-rent, and the driver sat low, facing a tall steering wheel and dash. The Sonoma's tendency to squeak and rattle didn't provide the feeling of brawny quality we'd like from a pickup, nor did lousy crash test scores.

In a comparison test we conducted for 2001, the Sonoma's Chevrolet twin, the S-10, finished fifth out of five trucks. Production soldiered on until 2004, at which point GMC replaced the Sonoma with the all-new Canyon.

Previous GMC Sonomas

The original S-15 was offered from 1982-'90 and the renamed Sonoma version from 1991-'93. Either way, the GMC was a twin to the Chevrolet S-10, save for a slightly different grille and taillight treatment. The S-15 was available in extended and regular cab styles, with the latter available in two wheelbases. Engine choices consisted of the typical four- and six-cylinder mills. Initially, output was weak, at 84 hp and 110 hp, respectively. The burly 4.3-liter V6 debuted for '88, sporting 150 hp and by the end of this run would make a full 190 hp.

For 1991 the Sonoma name replaced S-15 and the same year marked the debut of the asphalt-melting Syclone, one of the quickest GM trucks ever produced. Sporting a turbocharged 4.3-liter V6 that ran through a four-speed Corvette automatic transmission and then to all four wheels, the Syclone could blast to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and give any muscle car from the late '60s a run for the money with its 13-second quarter-mile performance. That beast was produced for just one year. The next year brought the visually similar Sonoma GT (which lacked the muscle-bound turbo engine) as well as an electronic transfer case for 4WD Sonomas. The GMC Sonoma continued through '93 mostly unchanged in the face of the following year's redesign.

User Reviews:

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  Drinks like a fish - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By SwampRat - November 11 - 4:45 pm

  I like my 2002 GMC Sonoma, but it has terrible gas mileage. It averages about 13 mpg for me. My 1984 full size 4WD truck got better mileage (and that was a V8 compared to this 6-cylinder). Aside from that, its been a good truck. Its comfortable, rides well, and Ive had little in the way of problems. The rear left sides windows weatherstripping cracked, but it was replaced under warranty. As long as you can afford the gas for it, Id highly recommend this truck. Ive also driven Dodge and Ford compact pickups, and Id definitely recommend the Sonoma over either of them. If youre going to get a truck like this, DEFINITELY get a 3 door. Its worth it!

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  A GREAT LITTLE TRUCK - 2004 GMC Sonoma
  By JACK WOOD - November 10 - 11:35 am

  GREAT ON GAS FOR A 4-WHEEL DRIVE PICKUP,BUT STILL HAS PLENTY OF POWER FOR TOWING!

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  Crummy ZR2 - 2001 GMC Sonoma
  By Patrick09 - October 31 - 1:00 am

  I have a 01 Sonoma ZR2 with a 4.3 5 speed with just under 50k miles and I have had nothing but trouble with it! The biggest mistake was getting one with California Emmissions, I have had the Airpump go out 3 times on me and the last time wasnt under warranty, it cost me over $300 to fix. Also, the syncros in the transmission are horrid, even after having them replaced under warranty!

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  gmc builds junk - 2004 GMC Sonoma
  By bad truck - October 22 - 2:00 am

  third door handle broke - twice. power window came unriveted from door mount. alternator went bad ,as a result had to reset radio at a cost of $80. tailgate bolts came loose on right and left side. tailgate cable broke. rear axke bearing passenger side went bad. windshield cracked twice no rocks sitiing still and heard a loud crack. auto transmision seems like it downshifts way to much like there is no power and it has to downshift to keep momentum on even the smallest of grades. recommend -dont buy

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  gmc items - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By hoss II - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle needs aproximately 50 more horse power to be a good work truck. It suffers from a blind spot over the right rear corner due to the location and size of the c pillar and rear seat headrests. The fit and finish of the sheet metal (out of Linden NJ) was less than stellar. Warranty repairs to AC compressor, transfer case electric shift solenoid and air distribution system vacuum motors required

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  Dont DO IT! - 1995 GMC Sonoma
  By MichaelWI - October 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive bought this thing 5 times over in the cost of repairs! The CRV valve in the exhaust was replaced 4 TIMES! Then the trannie went, then 4x4 problems, hen alternator, then A/C, then interior electrical, and now Ive blown a frost plug - in SEPTEMBER! The plugs are positioned in the bell housing, itll cost me $700 to have it fixed!

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  Like it...... but - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By B-man - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I like my truck and plan on keeping it for a long time. The 4.3 has plenty of power for me although it is a bit thirsty. I havent had any reliability issues at all. My complaints come from GMs classic little things like, Im on my 3rd radio and this one is messing up. (out of warranty now) Wind noise from drivers door weather stripping. (that the dealer couldnt hear when it was under warranty) Intermittent wiper switch slowly faded and is now on a mood basis. Noise from the front right wheel well when I turn left and accelerate hard. Scared to go to the dealer on this one!! Only other complaint is gas milage. Tows plenty, but hauls nothing!

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  o.k. - 2003 GMC Sonoma
  By R.J.L. - August 23 - 2:00 am

  i am a retired carpenter an have a cap on my truck.it serves as a 2rd auto,truck,and a tow vehicle for my 15boat.ilove it.my outer car is a cady.

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  My Third ZR2 - 2003 GMC Sonoma
  By REDI - August 1 - 2:00 am

  Like traveling with room and comfort long distance with your wife? Like to explore and use 4wd to find new trails with your laptop and GPS? Like to carry bicycles and gear? Like traveling remote Nevada dirt roads in 4WD High range at speeds up to 60mph? The extra ZR2 suspension and Bilstein shocks can handle anything. THIS IS THE TRUCK FOR YOU!

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  very nice pickup - 2004 GMC Sonoma
  By david mcdow - July 12 - 2:00 am

  very easy to handle, very good power, excellent ride, good fuel milage, very good looking truck