K2500 - Mid-cycle Refreshes

Mid-cycle Refreshes

This refresh occurred over several model years.

1994 C/K's received a new front fascia, federally-mandated CHMSL, many new exterior colors including a new two-tone option on the rocker panels, and new tire and wheel combinations.

1995 C/K's received a new interior that included a new steering wheel containing a drivers side airbag, a new dashboard containing a more central-mounted radio, dial operated HVAC system and an improved gauge cluster. New front door panels, and new seating were also included. The only interior bits not redesigned were the interior panels rear of the doors. Exterior changes this year included a special two tone faded paint job, available in many different varieties new gloss black folding exterior mirrors, and the door handles were changed from a smooth gloss black finish to a textured, satin finish.

In 1996, a passenger side mounted 3rd door was optional on extended cab models. A new range of engines were included. The "Vortec" engines meant HP increases across gasoline V6 and V8 smallblock engines.

1997 saw a passenger-side airbag on some models in order to comply with new federal regulations for light trucks. 2500 and 3500 models are exempt. This meant a slight dashboard redesign to incorporate these airbags. On models where passenger airbags weren't included, the space was occupied by a storage compartment.

1998 meant minor trim and badge updates as GM readied the end of the GMT-400 Platform. There was some overlap in 1999-2002 model years. In response to continued fleet sales the GMT400 trucks were produced as the Sierra Classic/Silverado Classic until the GMT400 ended production at the end of the 2002 model year. A Brazilian version of the GMT400 is currently produced in Brazil powered with a Chevrolet inline six.

The GMT400 and G-Van were the last two platforms to utilize the traditional small-block Chevrolet V8 in the 2002 model year.

The GMT800 platform was introduced in 1999 as the Silverado/Sierra.