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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  Best Personal Use Truck Yet - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mjjust - March 1 - 10:19 pm

  This has to be the best personal use truck on the market. 16 mpg city, 22 mpg on highway, tows my 7000 pound boat without trouble, rides great, and comes standard with removable bed cover, built in locking storage (which work great as an ice chest), bed mat, etc. No mechanical issues, warranty expired without ever needing service.

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  Ive never had a problem. - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Psychpilot - February 22 - 8:30 pm

  I was very hesitant to buy this "hybrid" SUV/Pickup. I need a truck, but not all the time. The dealer made a great offer. I am very, very pleased with the Avalanches performance and reliability. There are only two things I can nitpick about ... the fuel economy (which is the same for all pickups) and the big turning radius. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

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  Great truck but a gas guzzler - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Dee - February 22 - 2:08 am

  The truck runs great and the ride is comfortable with excellent handling. Only complaint is that gas mileage is very poor and visibility when backing up is horrible

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  Only one major problem - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By rtonon - January 30 - 12:02 am

  I had an F150 before the Avalanche. The Avalanches ride and quietness rivals that of a quality sedan. Bose stereo is incredible. Love the midgate and what it allows you to do. No other truck can do what this truck does. Ive used this feature several times and am glad I had this vehicle. A negative would be having to move the fronts seats foward to allow the rear seat to fold down to fully lower the midgate. A removable rear seat headrest would solve the problem. I now have 71000 miles and have yet to do anything but normal oil changes. Brakes are original still. Still love the truck

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  Dream Truck - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By TrickyRicky - January 11 - 10:53 pm

  Ive owned trucks since 1980. Fords, Toyota, Chevy..and without a doubt this is the nicest riding, roomiest, and responsive truck Iv ever owned.The paint is great, no orange peel, and the lines with the clading make it fairly bulletproof. The weight distribution is so good that in most snow, I dont even use 4WD. If you are on the fence about buying one of these, and are willing to pay for a 6000 lb moose, do yourself a favor and buy one of these. It has a tight turning radius and is nimble and quick for its size. You cant see well out the back window, but its not as bad as some reviews make it seem. You get used to it. I love this truck. I tried to find fault with it but I couldnt.

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  Great car - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By grecio - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Great car for my lifestyle: horses and business. One of the best cars Ive own. Truly two personalities

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  Avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By erlejohng - January 10 - 5:58 pm

  Ive pulled all kinds of loads, travel trailers, cargo trailers, and car haulers with combined loads up to 19700 lbs and it has handled them with ease. My wife likes to drive it as it drives like a sub. It is also great in being able to carry six passengers and folds down real quickly to haul 25 sheets of plywood all enclosed. The tonneau cover storage bag is a joke. I had a stainless ladder rack built and built storage into it for the covers. I get about 11 mpg pulling trailers and up to 16 on the freeway empty. Had two troubles, a pressure switch had to be changed and the r. rear axle flange had to be tightened back up three times. If it was destroyed, I would buy another today.

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  My AV - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By John Krause - January 5 - 3:09 am

  I bought my 2006 Avalanche for 3000 dollars below what I would have to spend for a Tahoe base version, go figure. In my AV (Avalanche) I have the Z66 premium onroad package, tow, posi, stainless side assist, and more options than I thought, still 3000 below the BASE Tahoe. I love the ride, the driving position, the fact that I can take 3 or 4 clients with no problem. Gas mileage? Check back with me later. Ill be running Mobil One 5w30, a K&N Air filter, higher tire pressure(+2lbs) and Ill keep my foot out of it. If you need a broad, stable, and comfortable ride I can suggest an AV.

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  Susans Avalanche - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By chevy avalanche - December 29 - 8:40 am

  This vehicle is a top notch 4x4. It has taken me through some very severe driving conditions. Its a very easy vehicle to drive with 4x4 at the push of a button and mirrors that adjust to your driving needs. Its easy to judge because there are no features that block your vision when merging into oncoming traffic. I was told these vehicles leak. I have had my truck for 5 months and that has never been a problem. This was my dream truck and I can honestly say I am not been disappointed with any feature it has. My thanks to Chevrolet for making a fantastic sporty 4x4 that is reliable, safe, and fun, people compliment my truck everywhere I go. It has been a great investment.

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  2003 Avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Rick - December 13 - 11:23 pm

  Love the truck. Runs great. An all around great utility vehicle. MPG is poor but what the truck does makes up for it.