GMC's strong
heritage as a premiere work-truck manufacturer took on a new dimension
in Chicago, with the Division's introduction of the 2001 GMC Sonoma
Crew Cab 4x4 Pickup.
"We describe
GMC Sonoma as the compact pickup that 'handles roads' as well as
it
'handles loads,"
said Sonoma Brand Manager Chris Mazglad. "With four full-size doors
and seating for five, the 'load' part of the equation - more than
ever before - refers to people as well as cargo."
According to
Mazglad, the new Sonoma Crew Cab Pickup will increase the brand's
appeal among families and hard-working professionals such as contractors
and developers who need to transport clients and crews comfortably
and securely through and around worksites. Families will be able
to transport children in the full rear seat - even those in child
safety seats - for trips to the lumberyard, garden center or grocery
store. This added capacity is expected to boost Sonoma's appeal
to new buyers.
Inside, Sonoma Crew Cab shares the same ergonomic instrument panel
with the two door version. A center console design incorporates
such features as a combination CD/cassette storage compartment,
a spring-loaded coin release, dual-bin storage under the armrest
and cupholders designed to handle containers of various sizes. The
front door trim features wide armrests and incorporates a cupholder
into the map pocket. Of great use is the new overhead console shared
with the GMC Jimmy and Envoy SUVs. The overhead console offers more
storage for items such as sunglasses and garagedoor opener, plus
map lights for rear seat passengers.
Sonoma Crew
Cab features the durable Vortec 4300 V6 engine with 190 horsepower
and 250 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a standard four-speed electronic
automatic transmission.
The Z85 Increased
Capacity Suspension handles on- and off-road driving with authority,
precision and comfort with a combination of 32mm twin tube shock
absorbers, a 28mm front stabilizer bar and rugged P235/70R15 on/off-road
tires.
The Insta-Trac
four-wheel drive system is standard equipment. In addition to its
handy push-button activation, Insta-Trac includes a 4WD Low gear
for more demanding conditions such as climbing steep grades or driving
through deep snow or mud.
A standard,
factory-installed cargo bedliner protects the 4-foot, 6-inch cargo
bed from dents, dings and scratches that are often caused by loose
or sliding cargo. Sturdy cargo tie-down loops, two-tier loading
capability and a rear step bumper provide convenient and secure
cargo loading.
The GMC Sonoma
Crew Cab, and its cousin the S-10, should be on sale this fall.
