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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  life saver - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By rs - May 24 - 2:00 am

  After owning the Avalanche less than a week it was struck on the driver side rear door by a full size car traveling 35 m.p.h.+ and was spun off the road and down in a ditch Not only did the vehicle stay upright my 2 small children in the back seat escaped injury from the impact

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  Good truck. - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ron Duncan - May 15 - 2:02 am

  I bought this truck new and the only things I dislike are; cant see behind me when parking, brakes are weak, not enough power, the back has never sealed right and the drivers side headrest has always been defective at the bottom.

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  I want another one! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By n8wrl - May 4 - 10:00 am

  We started looking for something to tow our horse trailer because the Astro van wasnt cutting it. My wife visited a local dealership and drove a Z66 while I was out of town. I was leaning toward a pickup of some type but was concerned about vehicle length since I used to have a 95 extended cab 8 bed. When I drove the Z66 I couldnt believe the ride and handling. Then, when we pulled the trailer it was like nothing was back there. Now I cant get the Av away from my wife to drive myself! I want another one...

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  No complaints yet - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By kingsso - April 24 - 12:02 pm

  My truck is doing well thus far. It turns a lot of heads, beautiful truck.

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  It is my mobile office - quite comfy too - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By corneliani - April 21 - 12:56 pm

  If youre looking to kill 2 birds with 1 stone, there is no better choice. As a homebuilder I need the function/look of a truck on a jobsite, but it cleans up so well that we use this same truck to go to church, outings, evenings out, everywhere. Ive racked up 66k miles in 2.5 years and all Ive done are oil changes (whenever the light tells me to) and changed a set of tires (shouldve balanced them more often, was told). I average 4-6 hrs/day in my truck when out, and could not imagine a more comfy ride and interior. At 61" and 250lbs it fits like a glove. Fuel economy can be an issue if you have a heavy foot, as I used to, but even though I still drive aggressively I avg 16+ mpgs city.

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  My Favorite Truck!!! - 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Steve Waddell - April 19 - 2:39 pm

  I traded in a 2003 Dodge Ram QuadCab- Laramie edition, that I purchased new for a Chevy Avalanche LTZ, with Rocky Ridge customization package. I had visited several dealers in Hampton Roads, VA, and none had anything that met my needs. I found exactly what I wanted on eBay. My son and I drove over 400 miles Friday April 16, 2009 and traded in our old Dodge and bought the new Chevy Avalanche LTZ. The truck in white diamond (pearl white) with customization package makes it look just like the Escalade.

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  08 Summit White LTZ NAV DVD Sunroof Load - 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By First Time Chevy - April 18 - 10:02 pm

  I am a lady that bought this as a surprise for my husband. I love it so much that Im probably going to buy one for me next year. I love the rear assist camera, heated seats, and power retractable steps. I was a previous Camry owner and Ive never owned an American car before. If this truck lasts for 10 years like my Toyotas, Ill never buy another foreign car again. I am super impressed with the Chevy Avalanche.

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  Chev avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By austin petzke - April 7 - 6:26 pm

  this truck has been used to transport furniture, tow a boat and move people, it has done all exceptionally well. It is comfortable to ride in and drive, in fact it rides very well for a truck.

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  Good vehicle - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Denver - April 4 - 1:45 pm

  I run my truck pretty hard high speed and for long periods and over the years I have averaged over 17 mpg highway and city combined, I have even pulled small trailers and the gas mileage was still good, Im going to purchase another Avalanche soon this will make my third one and am very satisfied with the overall performance.

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  Amazing Z71 Truck!! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jharken - March 28 - 9:37 pm

  This truck has it all! It looks great and the ride is even better! The inside of the vehicle is well built and everything is within easy reach. Had only one problem with a CV joint but its a 7 year old truck stuff will break eventually. And the best part is I still get 16-18 miles a gallon with this giant!