2003 GMC Sonoma: Road Test
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2003 GMC Sonoma ▼
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- MSRP: $14,770 -$24,670
- Invoice: $13,958 -$22,326
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Our road test for the 2003 GMC Sonoma includes a full evaluation of the 2003 GMC Sonoma from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 GMC Sonoma, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 GMC Sonoma help you decide if a 2003 GMC Sonoma is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Four-cyl models perform best with manual transmission. Automatic transmission or heavy hauling warrants a V6.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
In our tests, a 4-cyl regular cab averaged 19.8 mpg, V6 extendeds 15.9-16.5. GM recommends regular-grade fuel for all engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.6 |
The base suspension provides a relatively soft, controlled ride. Firmer off-road and heavy-duty setups give a harsh ride, so try before you buy. As in any unloaded truck, the rear end tends to hop over sharp bumps and ridges.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.4 |
Cornering lean is evident with any suspension, but Sonomas generally feel balanced in turns, with a natural feel to the power steering and good resistance to crosswinds.
QUIETNESS
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Wind noise moderate, but engines gruff when cold. Road noise fairly low with 2WD, higher with 4WD's knobby tires.
CONTROLS
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
Gauges unobstructed. Climate system's soft-touch rotary knobs and radio's large buttons enhance the simple control layout. Too many flimsy plastic panels and trim pieces impart a low-budget feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Seats are soft but comfortable. Extendeds and the Crew Cab benefit from generous rearward seat travel.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | 3 | 1.5 |
Extended cab's rear jump seat suits only children. (Rival Ford Ranger/Mazda B-Series extendeds offer two rear doors and two rear jump seats.) Crew Cab's larger, independent front-hinged rear doors are more convenient, but its seat is low to the floor and there isn't much leg room.
CARGO ROOM
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 4 | 2.7 |
Slight behind seat in regular cabs, but folding rear seats open up good storage space in extendeds and the Crew Cab. Doors have map pockets.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 5 | 6.5 |
Overall, we rate Dodge Dakota, Ranger/B-Series, and Toyota Tacoma above Sonoma (and S-10). Even so, GMC's compact is competitive for price, payload, power, and discounts are readily available.
Total Score
| SL reg. cab 2WD, man. | SLS ext. cab 4WD, auto. | SLS Crew Cab 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29 | 36 | 40 | 39.1 |
Total Score: 35
Scores for all Compact Pickup Trucks
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