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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  03 avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By keller - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Great truck. Rides nice and smooth even with the Z71 package. Lacks the quickness of my 99 2 door Tahoe but it also weighs 2000+ lbs. plenty of highway get up an go. Very fuunctional.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Lisa - March 28 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is versitile. It has extremely comfortable seating and plenty of room for each person. The ride is incredible. You would never know that you were driving such a big truck. You feel totally safe and secure on the road in this vehicle. We would recommend it to anyone, especially those with children.

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  Great - features no other vehicle has! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By KB - March 24 - 6:53 pm

  We bought our truck new and have driven it for 5 yrs. My husband just had an accident, rolled the truck twice, and both driver and passenger survived (well) in what onlookers thought would be a fatality. The structure of the truck saved them. Very comfortable on long drives, love the interior, flexibility of car to truck. Great for farm, pulling trailer, 4x4, dogs, people, you name it - it does it. Added backup sensors - well worth the cost as its hard to see with backing up. Would love to buy another one!

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  love the avalanche - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jetdr - March 5 - 2:00 am

  love the avalanche, had a jeep grand cherokee and wasnt big enough to haul large items. this will do that and tow my boat with no problem

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  Pure Excellence - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By John1571a - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This is an awesoem car for anything. Got change for a $?

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  My Avalanche! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By katkim - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Love it! Dont want to drive the 02 LT Tahoe anymore!

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  Loving it more every day! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By snowbadger - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Safest truck you can drive! Gas mileage is the only drawback (I get about 13-14 MPG), but utility more than makes up for poor mileage. Tall vehicle. Strongly recommend step up bar. Conversion from SUV to truck is very easy. Ride is smooth whether on the road or rough terrain. 285HP engine has plenty of get up & go. Surprisingly good turning radius. Ingenious drainage system ensures water doesnt leak into the cockpit, even from the folding midgate. Took a while to get accustomed to the dimensions. A vehicle I liked when I bought it, & love more every time I get behind the wheel. Best purchase Ive ever made & most fun Ive ever had driving a vehicle.

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  Transmission Stinks - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Keith trovillion - February 13 - 8:36 am

  The transmission on this vehicle went after only 2 1/2 years, and at 42,000 miles. I dont tow with it, or use it for work. Most of the miles on it are highway, none off road or abusive. Chevy didnt want to know anything. They told me I should have purchased an extended warranty. This in my opinion, is telling me that they know the Chevy Avalanche is substandard and I will have problems with it. I dont know of any car company that backs their product less then Chevrolet. Im very disappointed with Chevy.

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  I just want to drive it! - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By txyank1 - February 7 - 9:06 pm

  After several GM pickups I hadnt driven more than a block and I was hooked on the Avalanche. I had joined an Avalanche fan club and been reading about them for 5 months. This is my 3rd Av (had for almost 3 yrs now) and Ive loved every one. Each was a little better-equipped, this one being a Z66 with Sun/Sound. Liked the 3.73 gears in the 03 for get-up but love the 3.42s for highway mpg. 21+ consistently on trips. If GM only made a pickup that rode like this.

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  Understand WMS limitations - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By cag123 - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Should have read ALL reviews before buying. Water Management System does not meet my needs for dry cargo space. Tried to salvage vehicle investment with Snugtop/GM XUV cap. X = eXpensive, but would be worth it if it kept water out. It doesnt. Snugtop sales said "Of course its watertight"; now service says "weather resistant not waterproof"; no other response to dealer request for help. Have owned truck 33 days (25 with rain), 500 miles. Am trading it in tomorrow. Performance item: auto. transmission slow to downshift (book says to floor it!), but may be normal; have had manual transmissions for 35 years.