The sporty F-body Firebird had 17 major changes and engineering highlights for 1988.
Base models shared an improved Tuned Port Induction (TPI) system on V-8 engines, which also had new serpentine accessory belt drives.
Base model features:
standard 15x7 in. deep-dish Hi-Tech Turbo or diamond spoke aluminum wheels
a redesigned four-spoke steering wheel
an AM/FM stereo with seek-and-scan and clock
Pallex cloth interior trim
a new Camel colored interior
monotone paint treatments
a choice of two new exterior colors (Silver Blue Metallic or Orange Metallic)
Formulas had new 16x8 in. Hi-Tech Turbo cast-aluminum wheels and a new 5.0-liter throttle-body-injection (TBI) V-8 engine that was also standard in the Trans Am.
All TPI 5.0-liter and 5.7-liter engines now came with full-gauge analog clusters and a 140-mph speedometer.
New features for GTA models included:
a remote deck lid release
a power antenna
a right-hand visor-vanity mirror
power windows
power door locks
body side moldings
air conditioning
tinted glass
a lamp group
the Pass Key theft deterrent system
controlled-cycle wipers
a rear window defogger
cruise control
tilt steering
an AM/FM stereo with cassette and graphic equalizer
steering wheel-mounted radio controls
integral rear seat headrests
Metrix cloth interior trim (optional for the Trans Am)
In addition, leather-trimmed articulating front bucket seats were a new GTA model option.
