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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  Wow, What A Truck!! - 1994 GMC Sonoma
  By NesBilt.com - September 19 - 2:00 am

  Just bought it and LOVE it! I have the V6 and there is plenty of power! Its going to be fun upgrading this bad boy!

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  Sonoma the truck of many problems - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By Robert Godfrey - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive had problems with the rear, then the transmission, then the engine. Body panels were out of alignment and body rattles. A harsh ride, thats so bad that when you hit a series of small bumps the truck skates sideways, making it the most dangerous pick-up truck Ive ever driven. Low unconfortable seats with very poor visibility of the front end, and large blind spots. Makes me sorry I bought a GM vehicle, but Im stuck with it, maybe this will steer others to another manufacturer.

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  Love my Sonoma - 2000 GMC Sonoma
  By LAH - August 20 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Sonoma for over two and I cant think of much to complain about. The only problem Ive had is at one point, the rubber seal around the windshield started coming off. This was fixed and covered by the warranty and has not been a problem since. No mechanical problems- still runs like new. I definitely recommend opting for the V6. Its a lot of fun to drive but the city gas mileage isnt so great. Overall, I have really enjoyed driving this vehicle.

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  great - 1992 GMC Sonoma
  By bigjohn - August 17 - 2:00 am

  everything is very nice with this vehicle but the bed did rust out. that is the only complaint i have. love it.

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  My 2002 GMC Sonoma Regular Cab - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By gordon1fan - August 9 - 2:00 am

  At the time that I was writing this, my GMC Sonoma has about 450 miles. My 2002 GMC Sonoma SL Regular Cab features a four-cylinder Vortec 2.2 liter engine with sequential port fuel injection that is powered by producing 120 horsepower and 140 lbs-ft of torque. My vehicle also has Automatic transmission and all-season SBR tires. I really did not get the truck that I wanted. I was shopping around for a extended cab, automatic with a 4.3 liter V6. I had to get what I could afford, so I test drove and bought this 2002 GMC Sonoma SL Regular Cab.

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  The 3 year lease... - 2000 GMC Sonoma
  By Thom Kolesar - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Make no mistakes, the vehicle rides like a truck, not a car. The feel I was looking for, you may not want that up higher feel like a truck mode? There were 7 return trips to the dealership for what I see as Q.C. issues. Such as a loose shock mounting bolt, a third door latch that spit the spring out 3 months after purchase, both seat back handles snapped in regular service, an obvious flaw in manufacturing and most recently the fuel pump needed replacement @ 33,400 miles.

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  Super Sonoma - 2001 GMC Sonoma
  By dale_3 - August 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought this Sonoma after a crazy woman turned directly into the path of my 96 Sonoma. The only complaint I have is with the stock General tires. Replacing with a softer compound increases performance and ride. No problems at all with my truck, I have a long commute to work and it has performed flawlessly. I do find just a bit of weight in the bed helps with everyday driving. The controls and comfort are good, the engine is incredibly strong. I highly reccomend this truck.

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  Love my Sonoma - 1997 GMC Sonoma
  By AceBalboa - July 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 97 Sonoma 4x4 new and have enjoyed driving it ever since. It feels a little sluggish in the city at times, but thats to be expected with most trucks. This truck handles very well on the highway, especially in the mountains. The V6 has enough power to make climbing hills and passing a breeze, even when loaded. If I decide to buy a new truck any time soon, it will most likely be another Sonoma.

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  ZQ8 Sport Suspension Review - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By GRB - July 27 - 2:00 am

  The Good: Sport suspension improves the appearance and handling of the truck tremendously. The Bad: Inherent to the sport suspension is a rough ride and frequent vibration from the rear of the truck. Conclusion: Buy this model only if youre willing to sacrifice ride comfort for performance.

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  2002 Sonoma ZR5 - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By SlickDaddy - July 26 - 2:00 am

  The ZR5 appearance package, $1400, adds a roof rack, bed rails, upgraded wheels, and full length side steps. The S10 uses black, but the GMC uses brushed aluminum and looks much better.