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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  Had to have a Gotta Have Truck! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By GeneJB40 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  This 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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  My Z66-No Problems/No issues - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By David - October 29 - 4:47 am

  This vehicle was/is a Godsend. We purchased it as a promotion present for me when I became a police lieutenant. Little did we know that we would end up living in it when I became disabled in 2004. We have towed a 28 ft travel trailer from New Mexico to Florida then to Oregon then back to Florida and finally settled down in Oregon. It currently has 128322 miles, most of those occurred by 2006,(2 years). It has not spent one day in the shop due to a breakdown or malfunction. A few things had to be addressed during maintenance (like minor recalls) but so far we have been and are thrilled with it.

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  Big Red Z-71 - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By djames - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Feels like Im driving a Caddy without the 50k price tag

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  Avalanche owner review - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By MassiveAvalanche - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I 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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  2002 Avalanche 8.1 2500 - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Gary Pfahler - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Have had the 8.1 2500 Avalanche since Sept. Nicest truck I have owned.

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  Leaking - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By sportsfan - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I love my Avalanche, and all the attention I get when Im driving. But Im confronting the dealership about a problem that just started happening. After one of our big Mississippi rain storms, the items stored in the back were soaking wet. Has anyone else encountered leakage?

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  Love My Avalanche - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By txsixguns - October 21 - 2:42 am

  I love My 07 Avalanche. Great truck. Rides like a Cadillac, hauls and tows like a truck. Great camping vehicle. Great to have lockable bed. My only complaint is rear seats are not comfortable on back for a long car trip. Been back to the dealer for replacing interior door handle and 2 computer updates. Gets much better gas mileage on reg gas vs e85. Dont recommend e85. Runs sluggish and get 11-12 mpg vs 17-23.

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  Its a GREAT vehicle!!!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Leslie Wall - October 21 - 2:00 am

  When 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 am

  The 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 am

  This 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.