1998 GMC Envoy
Feeling the need to equip its GMC division with a sport-utility type of vehicle,
as most of its competitors have already done, GM introduced the GMC Envoy midway
of 1998. It was introduced as an upscale model of the GMC Jimmy. It has four doors
and available only with 4-wheel drive. It is basically a Jimmy gifted with premium
interior and exterior features.
The 1998 Envoy is basically the same as the Jimmy but have a nicer exterior and
feature-packed interior. It is equipped with the Vortec 4.3 liter V6 engine that
produces 190 hp of power and 250 lb-ft of torque. The engine has enough power
and smoothness compared to other V6 engines. It is, however, only available with
a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
The 1998 GMC Envoy is equipped with more standard features than its Jimmy predecessor.
It is equipped with amenities like air conditioning, power windows and door locks,
power and leather seats, and cassette and CD player. It is also equipped with
standard safety features like dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
Just like any new vehicle, the GMC Envoy received bad reviews and ratings in
its first year. The GMC Jimmy was preferred over the Envoy because of its poor
handling and low crash test rating scores. And even though the GMC Envoy looks
better inside and outside than the Jimmy, over-all, the Jimmy has proven to be
a better value.