Engineering:GM M platform (1985)

GM M platform
1996-2005 GMC Safari
Overview
Manufacturer	General Motors
Production	1985–2005
Assembly	Baltimore Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland
Body and chassis
Class	Van
Layout	Front engine, Rear-wheel drive / All-wheel drive
Body style(s)	3-door cargo van 3-door passenger van
Related	GMT325
Powertrain
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic 4-speed manual 5-speed manual
Chronology
Successor	Chevrolet Uplander (Astro, passenger van) Chevrolet Traverse (Astro, passenger van) GMC Acadia (Safari, passenger van) Chevrolet City Express (Astro and Safari, cargo van) Chevrolet Express (Astro and Safari, both cargo and passenger)

The GM M platform is a vehicle platform made by General Motors from 1985-2005

Vehicles

• 1985-2005 Chevrolet Astro
• 1985-2005 GMC Safari

Generations

1st generation

The Astro and Safari were introduced for 1985 as the first minivan from General Motors. While marketed as a response to the first-generation Chrysler minivans, GM adapted a rear-wheel drive layout, sizing the Astro and Safari closely to the short-wheelbase Chevrolet G10 van. Similar to the Ford Aerostar, to reduce production costs, GM adapted light-truck powertrain components; engines and transmissions were sourced from the Chevrolet S-10, allowing for a towing capacity of up to 5,500 lb (2,500 kg).

• 

  Chevrolet Astro 1st generation

• 

  1st GMC Safari