Overview & Reviews

The Chevrolet Avalanche is a distinctive utility vehicle that blends the comfort and passenger capacity of an SUV with the cargo capacity of a long-bed pickup truck. Its unique "midgate" feature allows it to be converted from a five- or six-passenger crew cab pickup with a short cargo box into a two- or three-passenger pickup with a long cargo box. A lockable hard plastic cover keeps the bed contents safe.

Produced for two generations, the Avalanche was based on Chevy's related full-size trucks and SUVs and therefore shared basic underpinnings and powertrains. Though it may command a price premium on the used-car market, the Avalanche also has more to offer than most pure trucks or SUVs. For the shopper in need of a jack-of-all-trades vehicle, either generation of this unusual truck should make for a smart choice.

Used Chevrolet Avalanche Models
The most recent Avalanche is the second-generation model produced from 2007-'13. Sleeker exterior styling, a sharper and more precise driving feel and increased interior refinement were its chief advantages compared to the first-generation model. It was offered in three trim levels: base Avalanche LS, midgrade Avalanche LT and plush Avalanche LTZ. Numerous luxury and technology features were available, including Bose audio, leather upholstery and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Rear-wheel drive by default, this Avalanche was also offered with two four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems -- one with a single-speed transfer case (introduced on the 2010 model) and one with low-range gearing (previously the only option). All models started with a 5.3-liter V8 that initially produced 320 horsepower and 340 pound-feet of torque (310 hp and 335 lb-ft with 4WD). A 6.0-liter V8 with 366 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque was optional from 2007-'09. (Note that rated power on these engines varied slightly through the years, but you shouldn't notice any real-world difference in performance.) Earlier Avalanche models had a four-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed automatic (which helped improve fuel economy) became standard for 2009.

In reviews of the second-generation Chevrolet Avalanche, we consistently praised its exceptional versatility on account of the adjustable-length bed. From behind the wheel, we found the Avalanche to be comfortable and smooth-riding for such a workhorse, with robust acceleration from either of the proven V8 engines. The towing capacity impressed us at over 8,000 pounds, easily outdoing the car-based Honda Ridgeline, though trailing pure trucks with V8 power. Maneuvering in tight spots was a challenge, however, due to the Avalanche's massive size and considerable blind spots astern. Still, with its updated platform, it was markedly more pleasant to drive than the previous-generation model.

Aside from the powertrain changes noted above, this Avalanche received standard side airbags for 2008, and the LTZ was upgraded for 2009 with standard Bose audio, heated and ventilated front seats and leather upholstery. The final-year 2013 model was technically known as the Black Diamond Avalanche; it was treated to special badging and some additional features as standard.

The first-generation Chevrolet Avalanche was produced on an older platform from 2002-'06, making a name for itself with its innovative midgate, which was largely carried over to the second-generation model. This Avalanche is also very similar to the newer version in terms of passenger space. At its debut, the first-generation model was offered with two- or four-wheel drive and in 1500 (half-ton) or 2500 (3/4-ton) designations. The 1500 came with a 5.3-liter V8 good for 285 hp. The 2500 model had a 340-hp 8.1-liter V8 as well as higher towing and payload capacities. Both engines came standard with a four-speed automatic transmission.

In reviews of the original Chevrolet Avalanche, we gave it high marks for its trick adjustable bed and comfortable seating. Downsides included compromised outward visibility, low-grade interior materials and awkward exterior styling. The latter was partly attributable to the truck's standard-issue gray-color lower body cladding. Chevrolet wisely made it an option starting in 2003.

There were a few other notable changes during this Avalanche's run. The 2003 model year also saw the arrival of standard multistage airbags, optional stability control and a number of new features, while 2004 saw a slight drop in rated power for the 8.1-liter V8 (to 320 hp). Stability control was made standard across the board for 2006.

User Reviews:

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  Id buy another - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mikml2 - November 1 - 9:27 am

  This is my second Avalanche. The first one had some serious problems. I traded it and got a new one. This one had problems when I first got it, but once the kink got out of it, its been great.

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  Pleased with my 04 Avalanche - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By sburk - October 30 - 12:20 pm

  I purchased my 04 used with 14,000 miles on it. I have been very pleased so far. My Avalanche does not have the body hardware and is very sharp looking. I am getting about 15 mpg during mostly country driving as high as 19 mpg on highway trips. The interior is extremely comfortable especially on long trips. The ride is solid and quiet. I enjoy the sunroof and Bose stereo. I wish I had leather, but the black sport cloth seats are very nice. The bed cover was somewhat faded when I purchased the vehicle, but after using a product called "Back to Black" it looks like new. This is the perfect truck for a family man. Tons of rear seat space even for adults and I love the midgate versatity.

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  Comfort and style - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By vtfatdaddy - October 19 - 6:11 pm

  I love my truck. Its ultra comfortable, even for several people on long rides (I drove two other adults and my two young sons in car seats on a 9 hour trip and no one complained.) I have the Z71 package, but it still rides much smoother than a truck, and because it sits a little lower I prefer it to the ride of my wifes Tahoe. I love the versatility of this truck. I can pack in my whole family and go buy anything I need at the Home Depot, or haul a load of wood or whatever I want. I love the look of the Avalanche, wonderfully odd styling stands out from the crowd. Havent had any mechanical problems whatsoever with the truck. Interior is "no frils" but very functional.

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  Love it - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By David D - September 7 - 10:00 am

  This is as comfortable as any car and drives just as well. I love the concept. A full lenght bed when you need it, and covered bed for smaller items.

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  Happy with it - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ray - August 27 - 1:19 pm

  Very fun to drive. For a truck, it has averaged about 16.5 MPG, which is not bad. I tow a boat and a travel trailer at times. It has been in the shop three times, twice with transmission problems, at the dealer a week each time, other time was a computer problem. I have had major tire problems, none of the orginal tires are on the vehicle, I have had it 14 months now.

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  Good Truck - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bob - August 26 - 10:56 am

  Very good ride. The gas millage leaves a little bit to be desired. Overall an excellant truck to own and drive

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  Used Truck - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By teak - August 25 - 12:22 pm

  I purchased a 2002 Avalanche a few months ago. I must say, WOW! I absolutely love it. Probably the most comfortable vehicle I have ever had. Thankfully the previous owner was very very nice to it. Great versatility for a full size truck. I absolutely am getting a newer Avalanche for my next vehicle. Dont believe what you read, this truck is absolutely great.

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  Avalanches rock! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Sarah - July 23 - 9:37 pm

  The Avalanche is very easy to drive. mine has the auto 4 wheel drive which I love for the winters in MI. It has awesome steering, I think it manuvers better than my Grand Am did!

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  Great vehicle for towing! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By queenbee - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my truck! I tow about 7500 lbs of weight - horses & trailer regularily & it is just great. The gas mileage is bad - about 7 mpg when Im hauling hills & long distances, but its effortless & the tank is big. The cab is comfortable, stereo is great, lots of leg room, pretty good visability once you get used to the small back window. Small woman/big truck! Love it!

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  Nice Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Steve - June 27 - 9:26 am

  This is a nice, quite functional vehicle with lots of 1st class features. I did have trouble with the tailgate lock that took 3 or 4 trips to the dealer to get properly repaired.