We noticed a big improvement in the performance of the 1994 S-Series pickup over a comparable 1993 model. There are three engine choices for the S-Series-a standard 2.2-liter 118-hp four, an optional 4.3liter 165-hp V6 and an optional 4.3liter 195-hp V6. Our truck had the higher -horsepower Enhanced Vortec V6 with Central-Port Fuel Injection. We also had the optional four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and the heavy-duty trailering equipment package.Acceleration from a stop and from 35 mph to 55 mph was outstanding. Freeway merging and highway passing were accomplished very easily. Handling was another strong suit. The independent front suspension with coil springs provided a smooth, sure ride with little body roll. Bigger shock absorbers all around were partially responsible for this. We drove on some washboard gravel roads and the unloaded rear end performed the usual sideways hop under lively going. This is characteristic of pickups and we didn't feel threatened by it. The four-wheel anti-lock brake system is standard on all models with the enhanced V6. It was flawless in performance, producing straight-line stops under every road and weather condition (gravel roads, rain-covered pavement) we met. The system has front discs/rear drums. The optional four-speed automatic transmission offered solid performance and a nice touch of gentility to our S-Series. It is smooth, with well-thought-out shift points, although we didn't try it with a load in the pickup bed. Power steering is standard on all S-Series models but we had a minor bone to pick with it. The ratio seemed a little slow to us, requiring more steering wheel movement than we like. |
