2000 GMC Sonoma: Road Test
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2000 GMC Sonoma ▼
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- MSRP: $12,669 -$20,281
- Invoice: $11,972 -$18,354
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Our road test for the 2000 GMC Sonoma includes a full evaluation of the 2000 GMC Sonoma from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 GMC Sonoma, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 GMC Sonoma help you decide if a 2000 GMC Sonoma is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 4 |
The 4-cylinder engine works best with manual transmission, providing adequate acceleration in light-duty use. If you want an automatic transmission or plan even occasional hauling, the V6 is the only way to go.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
We averaged 19.8 mpg in a test of a 4-cylinder 5-speed and 18 mpg in a 5-speed 4WD extended-cab.
RIDE QUALITY
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Without a load, Sonoma suffers to usual pickup tendency to rear-wheel hop over sharp bumps and ridges, but the basic "smooth ride" suspension absorbs most pavement imperfections with little harshness and minimal bounce.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
The chassis calibrations used with higher-payload and off-road packages are much firmer than the base setup, so try them before you buy to see if you're willing to live with their compromises. We drove a '98 with the optional ZQ8 sport suspension and found it both athletic and livable in everyday driving.
QUIETNESS
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.4 |
Wind noise is moderate, engines are gruff when cold or under hard throttle, but are not raucous cruisers. Road noise varies from little on base-tire models to lots with knobby 4x4 rubber.
CONTROLS
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Audio and climate controls are easy to decipher and reach, and there are a convenient cupholders and storage bins.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3.8 |
Comfortable and supportive, but lacking in support when the going gets really rough, the front seats offer good room for large adults.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | .9 |
The optional left-side door is better than nothing, of course, but it can be awkward to open in tight spaces and you have to sacrifice the second jump seat to get it. Rear jumps seats were not meant for adults.
CARGO ROOM
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 2.3 |
The rear door makes loading and unloading a snap. Seats fold out of the way.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4.6 |
Good-value pricing and numerous available features make GM's small trucks worth considering despite their aging basic design and relative lack of mechanical refinement. Still, more and more competitors have a big edge in offering four-door extended-cabs with two or even three rear seats.
Total Score
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLE ext. cab 4WD, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 29 | 36 | 36.1 |
Total Score: 33
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