Third Generation: 2002-2004
| Production | 2002–2004 |
|---|---|
| Body style | 4-door SUV |
| Layout | Rear-wheel drive/Four-wheel drive/All Wheel Drive |
| Platform | GMT360 |
| Engine | 4.2 L Vortec I6 |
| Wheelbase | 113.0 in (2,870 mm) |
| Length | 191.8 in (4,872 mm) |
| Width | 75.4 in (1,915 mm) |
| Height | 74.5 in (1,892 mm) |
| Related | Chevrolet SSR Chevrolet TrailBlazer GMC Envoy Buick Rainier Isuzu Ascender Saab 9-7X |
The new 2002 Bravada hit showrooms in February 2001. The third generation Bravada holds the distinction of being both the first GMT360 truck introduced, as well as the last new Oldsmobile model. Like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy, it used the new 270 hp (201 kW) Atlas I6 engine. Rear-wheel drive was available for the first time as well, making this the first rear wheel drive Oldsmobile since the 1992 Custom Cruiser. The Bravada entered Canada at that time. This was the first Oldsmobile with a straight-6 engine since the Omega of 1978, and the only GMT360 not to offer a V8 engine option.
Production of the Bravada ended with the demise of the Oldsmobile marque in 2004. The last 500 Bravadas were produced as "Final 500" special editions, each featuring custom seat embroidering and exterior badging inspired by vintage Oldsmobile logos, dark cherry metallic paint, unique chrome alloy wheels, and a medallion featuring that particular Bravada's production number, ranging from 1 to 500. The last Bravada, the number 500, rolled off the assembly line on January 12, 2004. The closing of the last factory that manufactured the trucks was the subject of an emotional 2009 HBO documentary - “The Last Truck: Closing of a G.M. Plant”.
The Bravada bodyshell was continued by its joint replacements, the 2004-2007 Buick Rainier and the 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X - the latter of which remained in production until December 2008.
Read more about this topic: Oldsmobile Bravada