Nineteen-ninety-two was an important year for sports car enthusiasts, as Camaro celebrated its 25th year dominating America's roadways. To commemorate this landmark, Camaro was offered with a special "Heritage Appearance Package" trim that included wide, dual "SS-style" stripes down its hood and special interior graphics.
The next generation of the legendary LT1 small-block V-8 also occurred in '92. The latest in a long line of powerful GM-built small-blocks, the LT1 was introduced in '92 Corvette models. Advanced technology significantly improved engine output over the previous version to an impressive 300 hp. Amazingly, this new power level was accomplished with virtually no loss in fuel economy or increase in emissions.
Chevy Truck made significant changes to its lineup in 1992. Blazer and Suburban took on the mantle of the new Chevrolet fullsize SUVs, and a new C/K Crew-Cab Pickup model made its appearance as well. Suburban, Blazer, and C/K Crew-Cab Pickup were the first three products in a string of successful launches that would stretch into 1996 and beyond.
Both Blazer and Suburban were now based on the successful second-generation C/K Pickup platform, featuring contemporary, aerodynamic exteriors with a new-design chassis and suspension system. The new models boasted four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and Suburban featured a specially modified C/K suspension that provided more car-like riding and handling characteristics.
Nineteen-ninety-three marked a number of upgrades and improvements. The outstanding Corvette ZR-1 received a refined LT5 engine, cranking out an unbelievable 405 hp. Camaro started its 26th year of production with an all-new coupe body design, a completely re-designed suspension and chassis-and a new LT1 V-8 for the Z28. The new look also earned Camaro the honor of being selected as the official 1993 Indy 500 Pace Car. A new convertible joined the line in 1994, as Camaro chalked up a 400 percent sales increase.
The 1994 model year also saw the debut of the second-generation S-Series Pickup. This new family of trucks was advertised as "designed from the inside out" because it offered new levels of comfort and quietness for a compact pickup. The series included Regular- and Extended-Cab, available in both two- and four-wheel-drive models.
The Chevy performance heritage was clearly and powerfully evident in the Impala SS, introduced as a 1994 production model. This fullsize, V-8-powered performance sedan was so popular that it would remain a sellout through most of its production period. The Impala SS began as a concept vehicle that was previewed at the 1992 Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association annual convention in Las Vegas. The response was so positive that the decision was made to produce the model, and one of the first new vehicles made a return appearance to the SEMA show the following year.
By 1994, the many new cultural initiatives to generate Total Customer Enthusiasm were taking hold, and a positive, more powerful image and mood were surrounding Chevrolet. Publicly, TV advertising began to communicate the resurgence of the Division as "Genuine Chevrolet."
Much more than a slogan, Genuine Chevrolet defined a way of life for Chevrolet and its dealers. Genuine Chevrolet was designed to represent all aspects of Chevrolet Motor Division, from customer treatment to the value designed into every Chevrolet product.
Chevrolet unveiled a number of truck feature "firsts" during the early '90s. A major advance in truck technology was the introduction of Vortec engine design, the source of industry-leading truck power today. Vortec engines were engineered to produce low friction, improve fuel economy, and enhance performance. Another significant first was the introduction of a power sliding side-door option available on Lumina Minivan. A GM exclusive, this revolutionary new door opened and closed with the push of a button.
The midway point of the decade was an important year for Chevrolet. Over the course of the year, new models were unveiled for passenger cars and trucks.
Lumina was first in the series, with an all-new design for 1995, along with its sportier "cousin," Monte Carlo. Both models featured a standard 3100-cid V-6 with Sequential Fuel Injection, standard dual air bags, and a new level of interior styling. The appearance of the fourth-generation Monte Carlo, after the departure of the third-generation in mid-'88, caused quite a stir in the NASCAR circuit. Taking the racing mantle back from Lumina, the new Monte Carlo stepped in where its predecessor had left off seven years before, racking up victory after victory on the circuit. Monte Carlo carried Jeff Gordon to the championship, and earned the manufacturers' cup for Chevrolet by a hefty margin over arch-rival Ford. Monte Carlo is the most successful nameplate in NASCAR history.