The steering apparatus found in General Motors vehicles produced from 1973 to 1987 (trucks) and 1973-1991 (SUVs) often possessed a distinctive, near-rectangular design. This feature provided drivers with a broad, easily gripped surface for vehicle control. Examples can be found in Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs of this era, easily identifiable by their upright, boxy exterior profiles.
The prevalence of this design stemmed from a confluence of factors, including manufacturing efficiencies and contemporary aesthetic preferences. The squared-off shape offered a robust feel and, arguably, improved leverage compared to circular counterparts. It also aligns with the overall design language of the vehicles, contributing to a cohesive visual identity that became synonymous with reliability and ruggedness. Its design reflected then-current safety standards, prioritizing a substantial grip.