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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  Great Truck - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By great car - May 17 - 2:57 pm

  This is a great truck. I thought about getting a regular pickup but instead went with the Avalanche and am so glad I did. The midgate is an amazing and useful feature. Its incredibly versatile. The abiltiy to lock the bed is priceless. Definitely the best truck Ive driven and with out a doubt most practical for day to day use. As for gas mileage, though it is kind of a hog the active fuel management makes a huge difference and the instant fuel economy display is a great way to help alter your driving to conserve fuel.

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  Best ride in town - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By josephous - May 11 - 12:34 pm

  Ive never ridden in a truck more comfortable than this. its apleasure to drive, forgiving. I drove on road trip to Austin from Mississippi, not tiring, and the dvd to boot. Thanks Chevy. A real winner

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  Love Avalanche - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Mac - May 1 - 11:03 pm

  This is my 3rd Avalanche. I have bought lots of vehicles and this is my favorite. The 2500 is not your average Avalanche. It weighs about 2000lbs more and has an 8.1 litre engine. However, the outside diminsions are all the same. I now know why they put a fuel limiter switch on it. Definitely a mans truck. I pull a 3 ton boat and have to be careful because you can forget it is back there. Get better gas mileage with it pulling the boat than the 5.3 litre. But, the 5.3 did get over 20 mpg not pulling. Unfortantly they dont make it anymore.

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  2007 LT3 - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BlM - April 30 - 2:25 pm

  I traded in my 2004 Avalanche for 2007 LT3. I pulled my 6500lb travel trailer without any problems and had plenty of power. With my 04 it seemed like it was always between gears. Not the case with 07. The gas mileage has also been much better (19.3). You feel no difference when the active fuel management kicks in. I am very happy with my purchase.

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  SoCal Avalanche - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By TRG - April 27 - 12:11 pm

  This is my first domestic vehicle. This truck has wonderful fit and finish, and has appoinments similar to those you mind find in European cars. The power is impressive, though it seems a bit sluggish from a stoplight or in a passing lane. The poor MPG is well documented. I drove it from LA to Monteray (roughly 400 miles) at 75 with the cruise control...and still only averaged 14mpg. All of the luxury features are nice, and made well. Bluetooth is a feature this vehicle is missing, and GM has no real excuse for not equipping it on a $50+ truck.

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  I almost love it - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Jeff Martin - April 23 - 12:17 am

  I have enjoyed this vehicle greatly. My biggest negative was the average in- town gas mileage of 12.5mpg with the 5.3liter engine. Had I known that ahead of time I would have bought the 2500 model with the 8.1 liter which gets almost the same mileage with 50% more horsepower and tons more torque. The body integrity is about what you expect from Chevrolet. When it falls off you can put it back on, if you can find it. I dont know of any other truck in the maketplace Id rather have so when I buy again I look at the Avalanche first.

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  Incredible vehicle. - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Phil P - April 21 - 6:35 pm

  Exactly what I wanted with only minor improvements suggested. Beautiful truck, virtually silent driving, love versatility and comfort. The 2 tone seats look great. The seat warmers are a must for tired muscles and bones. Over 16 mpg in town. Handles and rides much betterr than my 02 Suburban. The dashboard is well set up and easy to see.

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  Drives like a car, looks like a truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By TruckLuvR - April 21 - 10:00 am

  Super truck! A co-worker who owned one tried to get us to try one. We didnt like the style so never test drove it. Then it came out WBH. Awesome! We actually prefer this over our Chevy Suburban. Extremely quiet, smooth riding, great turning radius. Luv the door ajar alert, rear center shoulder belt, roominess. But it is a little nerve racking when backing up.

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  Sweet ride - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By tony - April 14 - 1:10 am

  just bought this car, and like it a lot. Great interior, and the front of the car is very nice looking. A lot of room inside. A truck bed, a hitch, and a hard tonneau cover, its got everything you need. Free year of OnStar. Good car overall.

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  Best Truck Ever! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Andrew - April 10 - 10:13 am

  I love my 2003 Avalanche. It is the Northface Package with the cool grey leather and the grey metallic paint. My truck has everything and I bought a superchip and programed it. Also I put some nice tires on the stock rims, looks sweet. Also I chromed all the stock stuff out. For example, the back Chevy letters bought on ebay. MPG is pretty good in city, stays around 14, and highway about 19. The chip seems to help with my MPG.