1994-2004 GMC Sonoma: Road Test

A V6 is virtually essential if you want an automatic transmission or expect to do even occasional hauling. The 4-cylinder engine works best with manual shift, providing adequate acceleration for light-duty chores. With an empty cargo bed, the Sonoma's back wheels tend to hop over sharp bumps and ridges in the road. Otherwise the basic "smooth-ride" suspension handles most pavement imperfections with little harshness and minimal bounding. Body lean is evident in turns, but the truck feels balanced and poised, providing fine resistance to gusty crosswinds. Power steering has a natural feel. Four-wheel antilock braking, standard on all late models, is a definite bonus. However, the brake pedal is spongy and has plenty of play before you feel any stopping power. The optional rear door is easy to use and a genuine convenience, allowing unprecedented access to the rear of extended-cab models. A Sonoma equipped with that door, however, lacks the second jump seat. The 2001 Crew Cab's independent front hinged rear doors are more convenient than any extended-cab's rear-hinged doors, but its seat is low to the floor and there isn't a lot of legroom.

Value for the Money
We rate Ford's Ranger a notch above the GMC and Chevrolet compact pickups, due to its slightly more polished feel. Dodge's latest Dakota, as redesigned for 1997, is bigger yet and even more polished, with stronger hauling ability and an available V8 engine. Even so, most buyers will find plenty to like in the GMC/Chevrolet compacts.