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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  I love my truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Janie Biddix - April 3 - 2:00 am

  The best vehicle I have owned thus far. The versibility is wonderful. It is a car and truck mixed into one vehicle. I can take my grandkids for a ride and haul pretty much what I want as well. The handling of the truck is great--in rain or snow I have the capability of maneuvering the vehicle to my satisfaction. Gas mileage is okay, but of course we all want better efficiency. We have to sacrifice something for the luxury we want. The quietness of the vehicle is another plus.

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  A perfect Dads weekend truck! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Freightbob - April 2 - 10:00 am

  90% of the time I dont need an 8 bed. But those times that I do its great. The only problem Ive had was about every 20th start I would get smoke out of the exhaust. Dealer found a SB that addressed the problem, replaced the PCV valve and BAAM, no more problem. In spite of what some reviews say about the "pain" of changing from SUV to 8 bed, it really is easy and doesnt take much time at all.

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  Comales - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By COMALES - March 29 - 12:11 pm

  I never wanted an Avalanche but when I saw it in the lot, I just had to have it. Ever since, I never regret buying an Avalanche, its never let me down, on the road and on the beach. Family owns Ford trucks but Im representing Chevy.

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  Comfort with an Attitude - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Furman Evans - March 27 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the most comfortable vehicles I have ever driven. The seats provide the comfort a body needs. The quiet ride and sharp turning radius provide an unexpected pleasure in a vehicle like this. The onboard phone has worked without cuts outs in every area I have tried. Its extremely clear and integrates perfectly with the radio speaker system.

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  Great Truck - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Clint - March 25 - 7:25 pm

  I have nothing but good things to say about the Avalanche. It rides great, handles perfect, the stereo has great sound and bass and the fuel mileage is better than I expected.

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  it was very comfty - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By cheerchick9104 - March 24 - 10:00 am

  it had good fuel

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  Perfect LTZ - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Kim K - March 24 - 12:51 am

  The 2007 Avalanche LTZ is a wonderful vehicle. Quite, rides beautifully, and the fit and finish are excellent. Towed a 5500lb trailer last hunting season without effort. The options on the LTZ are terrific but its kind of hard viewing the rear entertainment system from the front seat. The vehicle has 7000 miles and has yet to see the dealership service bay. This is my second vehicle with satellite navigation and the touch screen is easy to use.

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  What an improvement - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By nuerburgring - March 16 - 9:37 pm

  I owned a 2002 Avalanche which was flawless and a great vehicle. It is hard to believe that the 2007 is even better in every respect. The heated leather seats now have two stages, seat cushion and seat back. Nice touch. The two tone seats in the Z71 are awesome. The truck negotiates curves very well, no longer as top heavy as the 2002. It seems to hug the road -- no easy feat for such a big vehicle. The seat to steering wheel ratio is now perfect for a 6.4 person. The tailgate is now much lighter and it locks automatically. The 6 changer with MP3 is great as well. The speakers are in the wrong place and do provide a stereo sound when the seat is all the way back.

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  07 Avalanche LT is awesome - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Grandman - March 14 - 7:41 pm

  I traded in a 2001 Durango for my Avalanche. One of the best moves that I have made dealing with vehicles. The ride is very smooth, seats are comfortable and the Bose stereo system is fantastic. I have had the Avalanche for only two weeks, but I just had to give Chevrolet a big pat on the back for making this great truck.

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  1300 mile impression - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Mike - March 5 - 10:47 pm

  I bought the Z71 4WD package, and was a bit hesitant as to how the ride would be. All my fears are gone, the ride is perfect on/off road. Smooth highway driving, yet just the right amount of stiffness for some moderate off roading. This is the perfect ride for a combination of on highway and moderate off road capabilities. I got the 4.10 gears with the 5.3 engine and find it has plenty of power with nothing in tow. The Z71 2 tone interior with brushed metal trim is definitely a plus. Gas mileage will be 13-15 mph unless you drive a lot of flat freeway. The 8 cyl to 4 cyl switchover is seamless. Light throttle on level or downhill keeps it in 4 cyl mode,gauge shows 4-8 cyl operating status.