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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  great - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By darrell McCulloch - June 20 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is comfortable, smooth and great for traveling in. Handles great, and little to no bounce in the ride.

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  Best Ride to tow a boat - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Dana Breyer - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Waited for my 2500 Avalanche, one of the first to be delivered. Ordered on 9/9/2001. Received 11/2001. I have a 30 foot boat which weighs about 12500 lbs. This truck pulls better than the Ford diesel 3500. Gas mileage is ok. 10 mpg city and 15 on highway. Very few problems with the vehicle. Happy I bought it when I did. P.S. So far I have made $17.00 on the "CHANGE FOR A BUCK".

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  What a Great Truck for Dad - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By YSSMAN - May 21 - 11:02 pm

  My Dad was looking to buy an Avalanche the day they came out a few years ago. But with all that plastic, he wouldnt buy one. But after Chevrolet made the plastics an option, he bought one up pretty quick. I was a bit dissapointed that he didnt go with an LT or Z71, but the LS works just fine. The ride is quiet, and around town the power is sufficent to keep the truck going. Fuel mileage isnt bad either for such a large truck, and even when we are doing 80MPH with the A/C on, we still average 22MPG. Added to that, the MidGate system is awesome. Going from a SUV to a pickup truck was a great idea for GM, and it has come in handy so many times, it is just awesome.

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  Versatility and Comfort - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jcrwv - May 19 - 1:03 am

  Gas prices aside, the 327 cid avalanche tows great, hauls great, and looks great. This vehicle is the real hybrid. Some ongoing issues with the A/C remain but not a significant negative as yet.

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  More Than Satisfied - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Mike Noble - May 14 - 8:14 am

  My Avalanche has proven to be everything that I expected. All of the cargo space is very useful, we can fit our 3 kids in back easily, it gives a very smooth ride, and the gas mileage is better than I had expected (16-17 religiously). The back seat is roomy enough for 3 adults to sit in.

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  Great truck but..... - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By open - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Positives: Truck is extremely quite for such a big vehicle - Youll notice it right away whether driving down the highway or through pot holes. Very comfortable except for the front center with bench seats. Cons: Water leak in the rear flatbed and into the cabin (known problem). Backing out was a big issue since the rear of the flatbed stuck up (almost ran several people over). Nice to have.... automatic door locks when driving and also a door- ajar alert..

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  Very Versatile! - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Jim - April 10 - 10:50 am

  We love this multi-purpose truck! It accomodates us on our camping trips, hauling the kids bikes, and provides a very comfortable ride around town and on long distance trips. (We do have some concerns about the quality of GMs workmanship tho)

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  Well pleased - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By pt - April 3 - 5:59 am

  Great ability to open and store deck panels by one person. Good visibility in traffic. Handles all 4W terrain well.

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  Great Truck But Has Problems - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By enforcer_2006 - March 14 - 1:45 pm

  I bought my Avalanche used. It is a 1500 Z-71 with 93K miles every option imaginable. I love the way it drives and is really good in snow and ice. The problems I am experiencing is the water pump, steering gear box, and Bilstein shocks have all just gone out at the same time!!! Talk about dumping some money into it all at once. Another problem is that when you drive the truck down the interstate and the wind is blowing, and it does not have to be blowing hard, you get blown all over the interstate. It is gets so bad that I actually take the long way to work using backroads when it gets windy. When I accelerate hard, I get a metalic sound coming from the engine and Chevy cant diagnose it.

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  "Flash" Your Friends - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By CaptainGary - March 13 - 10:00 am

  I agree with the guy who thinks the price should be raised so as to maintain an "air" of exclusivity. This is the best vehicle Ive ever owned, period. For some reason, I got her for $9850 below sticker. I guess Chevy is trying to put every other truck manufacturer out of business. I got the Z-71, leather, sunroof combination and it turns heads everyday inside and out! She can handle off-roading too. The Z-71 package is a steal. Make sure to add the 4:10s. GM can finally say it again: "MARK OF EXCELLENCE!"