2002 GMC Sonoma

Whether it's intended for work or play, picking the right compact pickup truck isn't easy. Each model on the market, import or domestic, can get the light-hauling job done with a satisfying degree of competence. Therefore, the differences boil down to details and brand preferences.

The Sonoma lineup is simplified for 2002. 2WD versions are all short-beds, with a choice of Regular or Extended Cabs. Sonoma 4x4s come in Extended and Crew Cab guise, both with short beds.

General Motors makes the decision harder yet, because it offers two similar models. Like just about every light-duty GMC truck, the Sonoma has a close counterpart over at Chevrolet. In this case, it's the S-10. Both models have the same powertrain choices and differ mainly in styling details.


Sonomas come in a variety of configurations. Short-bed two-wheel-drive models, offered with a Regular or Extended Cab, have a standard 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 120 horsepower. A Vortec 4.3-liter V-6, rated at 180 horsepower, is optional.


All four-wheel-drive Sonomas have the 4.3-liter V-6, but their version produces 190 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard with the 190-hp engine, but other Sonomas offer a choice of five-speed manual shift or optional automatic gearboxes.

Base 2WD power comes from a 2.2-liter inline four. The stalwart 4.3-liter Vortec V-6 is optional in 4x2s (where it pumps out 180 ponies) and comes standard at 190 horses in 4x4 Sonomas.

Every 4WD Sonoma has a short cargo bed, with either an Extended or Crew Cab layout. Introduced for 2001, the Crew Cab Sonoma has four full-size doors and a three-place bench-type back seat; Extended Cab models have only a single jump seat in a smaller rear compartment. Because of its longer passenger compartment, the Crew Cab's cargo bed is only 55.2 inches long, versus 72.8 inches for other models.