The Oldsmobile Bravada is a front-engine, four-door mid-size SUV manufactured and marketed by the Oldsmobile division of General Motors — across three generations and as a rebadged variant of the Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Jimmy. It was the only SUV manufactured or marketed by Oldsmobile, and the first light truck offered in the United States by a GM brand other than Chevrolet or GMC since before World War II. The first generation (1991–1994) and second-generation (1996–2001) used the GMT330 platform, and the third generation (2002-2004) used the GMT360 platform. The third generation was the only version offered in Canada.
Second generation 1995-2001
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).
Source: Wikipedia
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Originally Posted by zeppelin
