2001 GMC Jimmy: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Jimmy shares its design with the 2001 Chevrolet Blazer, and new versions of both bow this year as '02 models. They're slightly larger than '01s and use a new, more powerful inline-6-cyl engine. Jimmy's replacement is called Envoy. GM has halted production of 4-dr Jimmys and will soon stop building 2-dr models. Standard equipment includes ABS, 4-wheel disc brakes, 4.3-liter V6 with manual or automatic transmission. Jimmy comes with rear-wheel drive, GMC's InstaTrac 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement, or Autotrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement; 4x4s include low-range gearing. Jimmy's performance and accommodations mirror those of similarly equipped 2-dr Blazers.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buy is the car-based Lexus RX 300. Though it lacks a low range in 4WD mode, it's the most carlike to drive and offers all of the versatility of a truck-based model.

Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the best-selling Ford Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the Teutonic Mercedes-Benz M-Class; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.