Oldsmobile Bravada Second Generation 1996–2001
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Overview | |
| Production | 1996–2001 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door SUV |
| Layout | All Wheel Drive |
| Platform | GM GMT330 platform |
| Related | Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma Isuzu Hombre |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6 |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 107.0 in (2,718 mm) |
| Length | 1996–97: 180.9 in (4,595 mm) 1998–2001: 183.7 in (4,666 mm) |
| Width | 1996–97: 66.5 in (1,689 mm) 1998–99: 67.6 in (1,717 mm) 2000–01: 67.8 in (1,722 mm) |
| Height | 1996–99: 63.2 in (1,605 mm) 2000–01: 64.4 in (1,636 mm) |
The Bravada was refreshed later than its platform mates, with no 1995 models produced.
The 1996 and 1997 models' body featured more rounded lines than their predecessor. This generation Bravada could easily be distinguished from the Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Jimmy by its Oldsmobile-styled body-colored split grille, premium alloy wheels, and lower bodyside cladding. Standard fare including a driver's airbag and daytime running lamps. The interior styling was more appealing to the eye with less ridges and squares, much like the exterior. In keeping with its premium image, the Bravada's interior was modified and upgraded, to differ from its Chevrolet/GMC siblings. The front bucket seats were similar to those found on the Aurora. Other interior features included standard leather seating, woodgrain trim, and its unique center console with a leather-wrapped console shifter (as opposed to a column shifter on the Blazer/Jimmy). In 1997, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes became standard and the rear spoiler was deleted. As with the previous generation, the Oldsmobile Bravada was available only in 4-door, 5-passenger configuration.
1998
Another refreshening occurred in 1998. The "Smart Trak" system now featured the computer controlled NP-136 transfer case, which works more like a traction control. The Bravada was now run RWD in normal operations and only when wheel slip is detected does the "Smart Trak" kick into AWD. A revised interior including dual airbags, heated seats, and a new front fascia which included the new Aurora inspired Oldsmobile logo. OnStar was available in 1999 as a cell phone unit, later becoming integrated into the rearview mirror in 2001 with available features like hands-free calling and virtual advisor. A Bose sound system was added for 1999 and the fuel injection was updated in 2000, though output remained the same. A new two-tone exterior dubbed the Platinum Edition was made available in 2000. This generation was phased out in 2001 to make way for the new GMT360 Bravada.
Engines
- 1996–2001 - 4.3 L L35 Vortec 4300 V6, SCPI, 191 hp (142 kW) with single exhaust
Fuel economy
The second generation Bravada EPA city/highway averaged 16 miles per US gallon (15 L/100 km; 19 mpg‑imp)/21 miles per US gallon (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg‑imp).