Our test truck was the Sonoma SLS 4X4 extended cab. Ours came with a $256 Heavy Duty package that includes heavy duty springs and shocks. It also came with an optional $1,802 package that included the Wideside body, SLS sport decor, the Vortec 4300 V6 engine, aluminum wheels, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cruise control and an AM/FM/cassette stereo with a clock. And it was equipped with dual lighted visor mirrors, cupholders, and full floor carpeting with mats.The Sonoma is an attractive truck with a smooth, aerodynamic hood that wraps around the front end. Its clean exterior lines includes a body-colored front bumper, fascia and grille and a new headlamp design that integrates all forward lighting functions. Composite headlamps are standard with optional integral fog lamps. The front license plate bracket is molded into the charcoal-colored lower valance, while a new center step cutout in the rear bumper gives easy access to the cargo area and increases towing capacity on some models. A palette of new metallic colors includes Topaz Gold, Meadow Green, Fire Red, and Indigo Blue. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when equipped with a 4.3-liter V6 engine, automatic transmission. Final drive ratios include a 3.42 and 3.73 for towing. The stiff, four-sided ladder-type frame dips in the center to make it easier to step up and step down when getting in and out without sacrificing ground clearance for off-pavement driving. The stiff frame allows the suspension to do its job properly for improved ride quality and better handling. Now a popular choice, the third-door option for extended cabs was an industry-first for compact trucks when GMC introduced it. A driver's-side panel swings out to make it easier to load personal gear, pets and people. Buyers of two-wheel-drive Sonomas have a choice of three types of suspension tuning: Smooth Ride damps out bumps, Heavy-Duty offers increased payload and towing capabilities and Sport provides the sharpest handling response on paved roads. The Sport, or ZQ8, suspension package for two-wheel-drive regular and extended cab models is designed for performance enthusiasts. This street suspension package enhances handling and goes a long way toward making the Sonoma ride and drive like a car. This is accomplished using shorter springs, high-performance gas shock absorbers, urethane bounce jumpers, front and rear stabilizer bars, specially tuned variable-ratio power steering and wide eight-inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear P235/55R-16 tires. An optional locking rear differential enhances traction on unpaved roads. Buyers of four-wheel-drive models have a choice of suspension packages to suit their needs: Smooth Ride is designed primarily for paved and gravel roads and offers a comfortable, but solid ride quality. Heavy Duty is designed for high payloads and towing; it rides very firm and is a serious work truck. ZR2 Highrider Off-Road package are designed for off-road driving enthusiasts. Distinctions include shocks, springs, and the wheel and tire package.
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