Price Range: $12,590 - $25,000

Overview:

With a new Base model Extended Cab, an improved powertrain and some tasteful exterior enhancements, the 2000 S-10 Pickup will continue to draw buyers in the compact pickup segment.

This year’s Vortec 4300 V6 engine provides quieter operation and greater durability than before. The standard 5-speed manual overdrive transmission also features quieter operation and extended gear life. The optional ZR2 Suspension Package (LS Extended Cab models) includes a revised rear axle for better performance, while the standard antilock brake system (ABS) uses a new controller for more reliable antilock performance.

Extended Cab models will now be available with Base trim — a feature many commercial truck buyers will appreciate. LS models offer an Exterior Appearance Package that features a gray grille with attractive chrome accents. Also available on LS models are body-side moldings and new Space Blue Metallic paint.

"S-10 Pickup has a kind of split personality — but in the most positive sense," says Debra Kelly-Ennis, S-10 Pickup brand manager. "It’s a durable, rugged pickup, yet it has comfortable, car-like qualities. Now, with the new Base trim level available on Extended Cab models, it will appeal to even more work truck buyers."

The driver and front-passenger air bags* receive sensing and diagnostic enhancements for added reliability. Carry-over safety features include: standard Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) with Automatic Exterior Lamp Control, four-wheel antilock brakes, three-point safety belt systems, side door beams, reinforced safety-cage construction, front and rear crush zones and an energy-absorbing steering column and instrument panel.

S-10 Pickup continues to offer a choice of Regular or Extended Cab models. The available third door on the Extended Cab provides easy access to the roomy rear seating area. The powerful Vortec 4300 V6 (standard on 4x4 models) returns with a stout 190 horsepower (180 hp with 2WD) and torque ratings of 245 lb.-ft. and 250 lb.-ft. respectively. A 2200 L4 engine with Sequential Fuel Injection remains standard on 2WDmodels.

"With four available suspension packages, S-10 Pickup buyers have quite a bit of choice. They can choose from the standard independent front suspension with its rear variable-rate multileaf springs, to an available 4x4 ZR2 Wide Stance Sport Performance Package," said Kelly-Ennis. Not only does this package give the S-10 a bold, authoritative look, it includes special high-pressure shock absorbers, a wider frame stance and unique performance axles —all designed with the off-road enthusiast in mind.

The available Insta-Trac four-wheel-drive system returns for 2000. In addition to its handy push-button actuation, Insta-Trac includes a 4WD Low gear for more demanding conditions such as climbing steep grades or driving through deep snow or mud.

On the outside, S-10 Pickup is all truck functionality, with sturdy cargo tie-down loops, two-tier loading capability and a rear step bumper for easy cargo bed access. A unique look can be acquired with the optional ZR2 or Xtreme Sport Appearance Package. The Xtreme Sport Appearance Package features such items as: a monochromatic paint scheme, a ground effects package, 16-inch cast-aluminum wheels and a capable Sport Suspension.

Convenient interior features help provide a comfortable, car-like driving experience, with such items as delayed interior lighting which automatically keeps the dome lamp on for fifteen seconds or until the ignition is turned on after the front doors are closed. The retained accessory power feature allows the stereo, available power windows and other power features to operate for up to 20 minutes after the ignition has been turned off or until a door is opened.