Summary
Also known as the S-15, the GMC Sonoma is a compact pickup that was produced from 1981 to 2004. There are two distinct generations: the first (model years 1982–1993) and the more modern, recognizable second generation (model years 1994–2004). Along with affordability, the Sonoma’s powerful V6 engine and towing capabilities are its strong points, which might balance out claims of spotty build quality and low-end interior materials. While this truck's proportions are easily dwarfed by what's on the market today, the Sonoma's uniquely small size is how it's earned a loyal following.
Safety
The Sonoma is known for its power and towing ability more so than its safety. Still, for an older vehicle, it comes with an unexpected number of safety features. All model come standard with a four-wheel anti-lock braking system, and models as old as 1999 have an anti-theft alarm. Other safety features across most 2000s models include:
- Rear-door child safety locks
- Engine immobilizer to ensure only the correct key can start the car
- Electronic brakeforce distribution, which maximizes stopping by varying brake power for each wheel
Interior
The Sonoma comes with basic interior offerings:
- Optional red and grey front bucket seats (as of 1991)
- Air conditioning (since 1994)
- Power windows, which come standard on the 2001 crew cab
The Sonoma appears with several cabin configurations, starting with a three-passenger regular cab and five-passenger extended cab, then in later model years a four-door crew cab—which, towards the end of Sonoma production, would be the only version available. With the truck's sporty exterior styling a consistent selling point, the presence of plastics in the interior could be considered a drawback.
Technology
The Sonoma's technological amenities are as decent for a vehicle last produced more than 15 years ago, but don't expect it to stack up to a modern-day truck. Depending on the year and trim, Sonomas have come equipped with:
- Cruise control
- Two auxiliary 12-volt power outlets, in addition to the cigarette lighter
- Six speakers and AM/FM stereo—or upgrade to an in-dash, six-CD changer
- Speed-sensitive volume control that maintains the ratio of cabin noise to radio volume
If you're interested in an older truck like this one, you may be parting with modern entertainment features in favour of affordability and rugged charm.
Space
With a length of 5.2 metres and maximum payload of 484 kg—in the last year of production—the Sonoma can move quite a bit of cargo. It shines with a 2,358 kg towing capacity. Buyers caution that only the crew cab version of the Sonoma stands a chance of fitting adults in the rear seats.
Comfort
Comfort might not be the first thing on the mind of a truck driver, yet the Sonoma assures owners with its 4.3 L V6 engine that there's enough power to get the job done. The vehicle’s suspension system is built to compensate for rough roads and heavy loads, easing the ride for drivers and passengers. Two- and four-wheel drive options let drivers further adjust to the road.
