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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North Carolina LTZ 2008 Update 11/2008 - 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
By avyowner - November 13 - 5:40 pmWell, it has been about a year since I bought this vehicle. I have even nicer things to say than when I had just acquired it. This is a very dependable, comfortable, powerful, luxurious SUV that also is a truck. And, you can write the whole thing off on your taxes because it is over 6,000 pounds and it is technically a truck! Buy American and feel good about it! Less costly than Toyota or others out there. Chevy will deal! I got the extended warranty but dont think Ill need to use it much this is a very reliable vehicle.
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Wish I would have bought one sooner - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Bobo - November 6 - 4:34 pmLove the truck. Got new in 9/05 Not had a problem with mine. Rides great. No noise, no problems, plenty of power. 14-16 MPG in city 20- 24 Hwy. Its a heavy truck and I am happy with the MPG and the ride. Great truck. Want better MPG get a car but you wont have a truck. Want worse MPG buy a Ford.
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Absolutley Incredible - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Best Decision I Made - November 5 - 12:44 amI have had this truck now for almost a year with 12k miles and I could not be happier. I have had no problems with this vehicle at all and lover the styling and comfort as well as the versatility. I am always being complemented on the truck, it looks much more expensive than it really is. I have added 22" chrome wheels, chrome front and rear light accesories as well as on the back liftgate handle area. I have the LTZ pretty much loaded with the rear camera and nav, which is extremely helpful. For anyone looking for an SUV that also doubles as a truck there is nothing that compares, especially if you are looking for true 4 wheel drive. This blows the socks off of the Honda Ridgeline.
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Had to have a Gotta Have Truck! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By GeneJB40 - November 3 - 10:00 amThis truck is awesome! It can pull anything I need to and yet it rides so smooth. It has so many extras that Im still trying to realize the full extent of them. I feel safe and secure in the truck and for good reason. The General has put alot of thought and effort into the safety of this vehicle. The kids love this truck and wanted it more than I did!
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Avalanche owner review - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By MassiveAvalanche - October 25 - 2:00 amI have owned this vehicle since November of 2001. All i can say is this truck is fantastic. They have opened so many doors to the idea of having a truck. Its amazingly more pratical then an average truck, its powerful, and its so unique. Every pickup truck looks like every other pickup truck, apart from the grille. But the Avalanche has given a completely new look to a pickup truck. One that i find to be agressive (which in my opinion is AWESOME!) I have had no problems with it, and love it 100%. I would recommend this truck to anyone.
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Its a GREAT vehicle!!!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Leslie Wall - October 21 - 2:00 amWhen I first saw it I thought it was the ugliest car Id ever seen. After driving it I decided it was so ugly it was cute! It rides like a luxury car, has plenty of interior room, and can haul 2 motorcycles and 6 adults comfortably. This is the best vehicle Ive evr owned. My sister and my father have both bought their own, and couldnt be happier. Thanks for a awesome car.
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Engineering Masterpiece!!! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By JasonM - October 20 - 10:00 amThe Z71 4X4 Avalanche is the best of both worlds with lots of toys! Its got the luxury and space of a loaded SUV with the hauling capacity of a full size pickup. I keep common tools (cordless drill/flashlight set, screwdrivers, etc) in one side of the locking compartments in the side of the bed and use the other side as a cooler for picnicing/camping or whatever.
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The Av.... - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Nightshift - October 20 - 10:00 amThis is my second Avalanche, the first was replaced by the dealership within the first week due to electrical problems. They volunteered to replace it! I love this truck! This is the Z66 version. Road trips with the cruise on = 20 mpg, not bad for a brick. City = 11 mpg. I have had no problems with this Avalanche, its versatile, takes about a minute to change it, unless you remove the hard cover. I have driven it in heavy downpours and have never had any leakage. All I can say, even though it took 2, Chevrolet got it right with the Avalanche, there is nothing else like it.
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Still in the break in period - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Fire Inspector - October 3 - 2:00 amMiles per gallon? what do you pepole expect, look at the thing.None of us bought it without thinking this thing looks like it has got some big round ones. Its huge. I Like to see the cadi drivers and know I have the same thing but for half $. Does not bother me about the "leaking cover" (its a truck)remmember? cargo still stays dryer then in the Ramm or f-Series. I just worry like the rest about water in the cab from the mid-gate.
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Highly Recomend - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By gilli2us - September 26 - 2:04 pmExcellent, versatile vehicle. Can haul full sheet of plywood with tailgate shut. Excellent payload, love the fuel management features. Supurb interior, and ingenious design with the mid- gate, and removeable rear window. Truck drives like a car, or hauls like a good truck should. It does get a little cramped with the rear seats folded down. You have to move the front seats forward pretty far to get the back seats to fold down all the way.
