Performance Like other small pickups, most of the GMC and Chevy offerings are purchased for personal use, not as work vehicles. In that role they're solid trucks that are pleasant to drive and reasonably priced.
   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.
   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. 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.
   Accommodations The GM entries match up well with the Ford Ranger in features and refinement, but still lag by not offering two rear doors on extended-cab models. 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. Audio and climate controls are easy to decipher and reach, and there are a convenient cupholders and storage bins.
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