The J platform was updated structurally to meet more stringent safety standards for the 1996 model year.

The sedan continued to be sold in Canada and Mexico until the end of production on June 22, 2005.

General Motors had envisioned introducing a new four-speed automatic with the new car, but the company's cash shortage delayed this option until the next year.

The GT trim level came standard with the 2.3 litre LD2 engine from 1994 to 1995 or the 2.4 litre LD9 "Twin Cam" engine (1996–2002), 16-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, and a more aggressive looking front fascia.

The SE trim was the standard for the Sunfire which included the 2.2 litre 2200 OHV Engine.

Both the SE and GT trim levels were dropped after the 2002 model year, along with the 2.2 OHV and 2.4 DOHC engines.