• Year: 1996
• Make: Chevrolet
• Model: S-10
• Trim: EXT LS 2WD
• Body style: Pickup Truck
• Mileage: 83565
• Engine: V-6 4.3
• Trans: Automatic
• Exterior Color: White
• Interior Color: Gray
• Stock: 209055
• VIN: 1GCCS19W2T8209055

Although there are a variety of modern safety features in the S-series, the availability of only a driver's side airbag is out-of-date. We hope GM will amend this drawback in the near future.

From the outside, the Fleetside 4x4 Pickup has a pleasing body style with a smooth, aerodynamic hood that wraps around a bold front end with built-in tow hooks. It's built on a stiff, four-sided ladder-type frame that dips in the center to make entry and exit easier for step-in height yet keeps ground clearance at a maximum for off-pavement driving.

Powertrain improvements include an engine redesign that upgrades performance and reliability and simplifies diagnostic servicing. S-Series 4x4's get 25 more horsepower and 5 lb. ft. more torque with the Vortec LF6 4300 engine than last year's LB4 4.3 V6. It shows with towing, passing and hauling heavy loads. Engine block redesign and additional bolts increase stiffness and reduce noise. Two-wheel drive models come with a standard 2.2-liter in-line 4-cylinder engine, with standard 5 speed manual transmission.

For '96, the 5-speed manual transmission's shift lever is relocated and improvements to the clutch mean less pedal effort and travel. Automatic transmissions have a new brake/transmission shift interlock that requires the driver to apply the brake pedal to shift out of park, an important safety upgrade.

Recommended service change intervals have been bumped up to 100,000 miles with new long-life engine coolant, platinum-tipped spark plugs, and transmission fluid that never needs replacement under normal service. There are also improved On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) which monitor emissions system.

The SS-Package designed for performance enthusiasts added the new ZQ8 Sport Chassis Package for Regular Cab S-Series 2WD models (not available with 2.2-liter engine) to enhance on-road handling. It comes with special springs and a lower ride height, 46-mm de Carbon gas-charged shock absorbers, urethane bounce jumpers, front and rear stabilizer bars, specially tuned variable-ratio power steering and 16''x8'' aluminum wheels with Goodyear P235/55R-16 tires. A locking differential enhances traction on paved surfaces.

All models get five new paint colors and new for '96 are optional 2WD Super Sport 16'' cast aluminum wheels and P235/55R-16 Goodyear tires, which are included with ZQ8 Sport Chassis Package.

The Fleetside's a truck, and doesn't handle or ride like a car. However, like many recent trucks, S-series offers handling and a driving environment somewhere between the two. We found quick, available power that made passing enjoyable and safe. Rear leaf springs are more gradual, which keeps the back end from bouncing when you're not carrying a cord of wood.

On-road performance is improved by a suspension package that combines a soft suspension and stiff chassis and by the track bar which runs laterally between the axle housing and the frame to limit on-road snake. Although the higher ride height increases visibility and is a real bonus off-road, it makes the vehicle more susceptible to wind on open roads and at faster speeds. We also found the tires a bit noisy on the highway, a distraction quickly cured by the powerful sound system.

An electronic transfer case came with the Preferred Equipment Group Package. The ZR2 Performance Package (available in Regular Cab and Extended Cab) is designed for serious off-roaders.

Personal-size pickups for utility and comfort.

There's a whole lot to like about the S-Series pickups. And, there's also a whole lot to like about GM. They now accomodate drivers and passengers with disabilities with greater ease and sensitivity by providing a mechanical lift and a financial lift, as well.

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