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 luv my Lanche - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mwa - January 28 - 10:00 am

  best truck on da road

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  Great Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ryan M. Eashoo - January 28 - 10:00 am

  Great Truck, well designed.

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  Best Chevy, and not just a crew truck. - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By IzenFire - January 28 - 10:00 am

  We drove 1200 miles then returned 1200 miles a week later. The ride was wonderful for 2 adults and 1 dog whom got both back seats.

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  great vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By gmpoohbear - January 28 - 10:00 am

  Absolutly love this vehicle, no problems,great quality built vehicle,perfect paint,no flaws anywhere except only average 18.8 mpg.

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  i want 10 more - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By elb - January 28 - 10:00 am

  this is by far the best truck i have bought.i WILL buy another 1. we r currently looking to buy a new 1. fuel economy is not bad for its size. a great buy.

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  my avalanche - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mertsdad - January 28 - 10:00 am

  this is just based on my over all experiance of my own avalanche.

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  Its big! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By phillipsjohnr - January 28 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned a Jeep Cherokee, Isuzu Trooper, and Toyota 4Runner and the Avalanche is by far the roomiest SUV Ive owned. Its also the most powerful. While the model I bought doesnt have all the amenities of past vehicles, it does have everything I want. It drives smoothly and quietly. The Bose stereo with XM it decent and Im still experimenting with the Midgate conversion options. The only downside - filling up with gas...

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  rating chevrolet avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By robert ratliff - January 26 - 10:00 am

  a very good truck glad that i brought it looked at ford super crew cab fords style is old. i love the power and the feel of the 5.3 v-8.the avalanche rides very smooth and is very quite. i like the quality build into the truck. went to new york 2 weeks ago. the truck was great on the trip. i got over 18 miles a gallon. that is very good for a 4-wheel drive.

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  I would buy another one - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Joe V - January 25 - 8:04 pm

  I purchased new almost 4 years ago. After 58,000 miles, I have not had one major repair. Changed oil and it goes. In nearly perfect condition, with original tires and brakes. Never a problem. The black plastic began to fade and the dealer refurbished it, under warranty without charge with an improved treatment. Every year me and 3 friends take it on our golf trip- 4 men, 4 sets of clubs and our luggage- and we usually take the clubs of the rest that fly down. Have hauled 10 foot sheets of drywall, skids of pavers and also trailered a huge camper approx 10,000 pounds. Reliable!

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  This truck rocks!! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jcrichie - January 22 - 2:56 am

  If you are looking for a great truck without the rough ride, this is the one for you. I have driven 4x4 trucks all of my adult life and I can honestly say I will never own one again. The Avalanche rides better than my wifes Xterra (by a large margin) but still gives you the feel of driving a truck. When they first came out I thought they looked awful, but the exterior has grown on me. Anyone who doesnt like the Avalanche obviously has never driven one.