1982 – Chevrolet S10 and its GMC counterpart the S15 are introduced. The S-series was a new size, larger than the LUV compact pickup, but smaller than the full size C10 pickup. In the first year only two-wheel drive versions were available. Standard equipment included a 1.9L four-cylinder engine, four speed manual transmission, bench seat and dual outside rearview mirrors. Also available as an option was a 2.8L V6 engine.
1983 – While overall appearance remained unchanged, an extended cab version was added. The S10 Blazer was introduced along with the GMC version called the S15 Jimmy. All models were now available in four-wheel drive versions designated the T10 for Chevrolet and the T15 for GMC. A new 2.0L four-cylinder engine was now available.
1984 – Overall appearance remained unchanged. Features were expanded to include a new sport suspension for regular cab two-wheel drive models. A new hydraulic clutch replaced the cable type. A new 2.2L diesel engine was now available for two-wheel drive models.
1985 – The most notable difference from the outside was the change to the fender emblems. The new emblems were bigger with a large red “S”. Under the hood was a new 2.5L four-cylinder engine with TBI (throttle body injection).
1986 – For 1986 a new instrument cluster was introduced. TBI (throttle body injection) was now an option for the 2.8L V6 engine boosting it’s horsepower rating by nine percent.
1987 – A serpentine drive belt replaced the multiple standard V-belts on both the 2.5L and 2.8L engines. Overall appearance remained unchanged.
1988 – Chevrolet’s new 4.3L Vortex V6 engine became an option. For the first time a factory installed sunroof was available.
1989 – Now standard on all models were rear wheel anti-lock brake systems. A new electronic instrument cluster was now an option. It included speedometer, tachometer, voltmeter, fuel, oil pressure and engine coolant temperature gauges. Fourwheel drive models with the standard 2.8L engine received a new transfer case designed for smoother operation and reduced road noise. A special Cameo version of the S10 was introduced, only 2,198 were produced.
1990 – Standard on four-wheel drive models was the 4.3L V6 and a new Hydramatic-built five speed manual transmission with fifth gear overdrive. The standard instrument cluster was improved and now included voltmeter, engine coolant temperature and oil pressure gauges. Also standard were front tow hooks.
1991 – A new grille, emblems and body side moldings were among the changes for 1991. The GMC S15 was renamed Sonoma. A four door version of the Blazer/Jimmy was introduced. A limited edition GMC Syclone pickup with a 280HP turbocharged V6 and all wheel drive was introduced.
1992 – New for 1992 was a four-wheel drive “EL” (entry level) model. A new electronic-shift transfer case was optional for all fourwheel drive models except the “EL”.
1993 – A new electronic 4L60-E Hydramatic four speed automatic overdrive transmission was available. A new heavy duty cooling system for trucks with the automatic transmission was introduced. It included an engine oil cooler as well as a transmission oil cooler
1994 – The new S-Series trucks were designed for value, performance and comfort. They featured a forward sloping hood, wraparound grille, were 3″ wider and had 20% more glass area than previous models. Chevrolet S10 was available in base and LS trim. Trim levels for GMC Sonoma were SL, SLS and SLE. A new 2.2L 4cyl was standard on two-wheel drive models, a 4.3L V6 standard on four-wheel
drive models. Rear wheel ABS was standard on 4cyl trucks; 6cyl models received 4-wheel ABS. Optional ZR2 four-wheel drive off-road package featured a 3-inch lift (over regular 4x4s), 3.9″ wider stance, 31″ tires, fender flares and skid plates. SS package for two-wheel drive models included ZQ8 sport suspension, body colored bumpers and grilles, aluminum wheels and fog lamps.
1995 – Driver’s side airbag and daytime running lights standard. ZR2 package available on extended cab models. Keyless entry optional. Backlighting was added to power window, lock, and mirror switches.
1996 – Third door on driver’s side available. Sportside model introduced. 4.3L V6 engines were revised and now identified as 4300 V6, featuring OBD II diagnostics. Brake/transmission shift interlock included with automatic transmissions. 4-wheel ABS was standard on all models.
1997 – Frame and drive train enhancements improved strength and durability. Automatic transmission shifter mounted in floor console on models with bucket seats.
1998 – Styling revision included new front bumper fascia, grille and composite headlamps. Interior received new instrument panel, seats and floor console. Dual front air bags standard; the passenger side featured a deactivation switch. All models featured Passlock theft deterrence and battery rundown protection. Rear disc brakes and Insta-trac standard on all four-wheel drive models.
1999 – Xtreme model replaced SS package. The two-wheel drive Xtreme was lowered two inches and included ground effects, ZQ8 suspension package, monochrome grille and bumpers. Larger, folding rear view mirrors were standard on all models.Flash-to-pass feature added.
2000 – Base trim level was available on extended cab models. Vortec 4300 engines received enhancements for smoother, quieter running. Anti-lock brake and air bag systems were revised. Four-wheel drive models received a standard heavy-duty suspension.
2001 – Four-wheel drive, four-door crew cab introduced with 4.3L V6 and a 4.6-foot bed. Crew cabs featured a Z85 increased capacity suspension and a factory installed bedliner. Fourwheel drive standard cab models dropped.
2002 – All extended cabs included driver’s side third door. Air conditioning and a tachometer were standard on all models. Crew Cabs were now available with leather seats.
2003 – Sonoma ZRX Street Rider package featured a stepside bed, ZQ8 suspension, bedrails and power sunroof. Heat appearance package for Xtreme trucks featured front fender and door flame graphics.
2004 – Only available as a crew cab 4×4 with 4.3L V6 and automatic transmission. S10 and Sonoma trucks were replaced with all-new models, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon.