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GMC

GMC Trucks For 1997

By Carey Russ

Trucks and truck-based sport-utility vehicles are among the most popular things on wheels these days. What could be better for GMC Truck? GMC's 1997 lineup of pickups, vans, and sport-utilities gets detail revisions and some new paint colors after the introduction of the newest Savana full sized van last year and Jimmy compact sport-utility in 1995.

Sierra

The Sierra line of full-sized pickups is the heart of GMC Truck. All models under 8,600 lbs. gross vehicle weight get passenger-side as well as driver-side airbags this year, with a suppression switch that allows use of a rear-facing child safety seat. There are also a number of mechanical enhancements. The optional passenger-side third door continues to be available on uplevel extended-cab Sierras. A variety of V6 and V8 gasoline engines and a V8 turbo-diesel provide power.

Sonoma

The compact Sonoma pickup, redesigned three years ago, got an optional driver's-side third door on the extended-cab models last year. A retro-style "sportside" cargo box was a mid-1996 option, and continues for 1997. A new sport suspension package and minor mechanical revisions are this year's news.

Jimmy

The Jimmy compact sport-utility is sold in both 2- and 4-door versions. Four-door models have a new liftgate designed for easier access this year.

Yukon

The full-sized Yukon gets a passenger-side airbag and front suspension revisions. An optional electronic four-wheel drive switch eliminates the floor-mounted shift lever for greater useable front seat room.

Suburban

The Yukon's big brother has the same upgrades.

Safari

Bigger and stronger than a minivan, smaller and more economical than a full-sized van, the Safari is the perfect size for many people. The upscale SLT model may now be ordered with luxury appointments such as leather seating. A variety of mechanical refinements have also been made for 1997.

Savana

The second generation of the full-sizes GMC van was new last year. It continues with minor changes for 1997.

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