GM renames new medium-duty trucks

Feb. 7, 2002
For 2003, General Motors has added model-name designations to its all-new conventional-cab line of Class 4-8 trucks. The new 2003 models, previously know

For 2003, General Motors has added model-name designations to its all-new conventional-cab line of Class 4-8 trucks.

The new 2003 models, previously know by the GM code name GMT 560, will be called Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC TopKick.

The Kodiak / TopKick C4500-C5500 Series (Class 4-5) trucks have been designed and engineered from the ground up for 2003. From regular and commercial cutaway chassis cabs, and even vocational packages to cover school bus, fire and rescue, ambulance, shuttle bus, wrecker and snowplow requirements, there are more specific model choices than ever before.

New crew cab and four-wheel drive models will follow. Gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs) will range from 16,000 pounds for the C4500 to 18,000 and 19,500 pounds for the C5500.

For even bigger tasks there’s the new Kodiak / TopKick C6500, C7500 and C8500 Series (Class 6-7-8) trucks that replace GM’s conventional-cab C-Series line with regular and crew cab, chassis cab offerings. With GVWRs covering 19,501 to 61,000 pounds, the model range includes LoPro, tandem and tractor models.

Kodiak / TopKick model-name designations were used on Chevrolet and GMC medium duty trucks from the early 1980s through the mid- 1990s.

The new trucks feature high maneuverability and visibility, an expanded powertrain lineup, upgraded serviceability, advanced chassis and braking systems, improved ride and handling, and increased comfort and safety.