Positioned at the high end of the compact sport/utility market, the full-time all-wheel-drive Oldsmobile Bravada was designed to appeal to affluent buyers who wanted the convenience of a compact sport/utility, albeit domestic, but who wanted it in a luxurious package. Competitors included upscale versions of the new Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy corporate cousins as well as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Range Rover, Mitsubishi Montero and Ford Explorer.
The Bravada utilized a single drivetrain, GM's 4.3-liter ohv V6 mated to a 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission. Full-time all-wheel-drive with a viscous-coupling transfer case and 4-wheel antilock brakes were also standard. GM referred to this combination of awd and ABS as SmartTrak.
As with its drivetrain, the Bravada was offered in just one trim level, but each vehicle was loaded with standard equipment. The extensive list included air conditioning, premium sound system, overhead console and 6-way power adjustable driver's seat. Among the few available options were leather upholstery, heavy-duty towing package, exterior spare tire and CD player.
Year-to-year changes[]
1995[]
The Olds Bravada marked time as a carryover model, awaiting in late 1995 for the 1996 model year when the compact sport/utility was scheduled to receive the same thorough makeover as its siblings, the Chevy Blazer and GMC Jimmy.
Dealers have stockpiled a sufficient inventory of '94 Bravadas to carry them well into 1995. Though it remained unchanged, the Bravada continued to offer buyers a blend of well-appointed comfort and standard convenience features as well as sturdy functionality.
1996[]
The second-generation Bravada began production late in November 1995 as a 1996 model after skipping the 1995 model year. It retained the 4.3-liter V6 engine from the first-generation Bravada, but the horsepower was downgraded from 200 to 190. It was once again sold only as a 4-wheel drive SUV, with 4-speed automatic transmission.
1997[]
1998[]
1999[]
Retail prices[]
As of December 17, 1993:
- $25,020 (1994 Oldsmobile Bravada Special Edition)
- $26,320 (1994-1995 Oldsmobile Bravada)
As of October 9, 1995:
- $29,505 (1996 Oldsmobile Bravada)
Shipping prices[]
- $475 (1994 Oldsmobile Bravada)
- $485 (1995 Oldsmobile Bravada)
- $490 (1996 Oldsmobile Bravada)
Gallery[]
