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:

• 

  Simply Wonderful, Great Chevy - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Sanjay - April 3 - 2:51 pm

  I purchased my Avalanche about a month ago and absolutely love it. If anyone out there thinks GM is in trouble, please do a test, drive a Toyota, Nissan, Honda and then youll know what I am talking about. I used to drive Toyotas all the time, until I bought my GMC Sierra in 2000. This convinced me that GM trucks are the best. I bought my Avalanche a month ago and its a beauty. It rides like a Lexus, it does not have any wind noise like the Tundra or Ridgeline. GM has come a long way building trucks and this simply shows how well they can build it. Again when in doubt, do drive others and youll come back to the Avalanche. Excellent, ride, comfort, convenice, etc etc etc.

• 

  Love to Drive - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By kjelvis - April 1 - 2:00 am

  This truck drives like a dream. It has a soft ride, smooth transmission, and is relatively easy to manuever for a large truck. The leather seats are incredibly comfortable, and there are a lot of bells and whistles available. The only complaint is poor fuel economy, even for a truck. I only have 600 miles on it so far, but am averaging about 13.5 mpg.

• 

  Comfort fo Handicap (Avalanche) - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Paulie - March 22 - 7:38 am

  I could not believe how comfortable this vehicle was. Ive had several hip replacements done and I must say the comfort and handling is the best Ive had.

• 

  Two Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By STEVE SURDICK - March 20 - 1:29 pm

  This vehicle has been used to tow our show car all over the country and hasnt missed a beat. Storage is one of the best features. We will be looking at the new version when it becomes availiable.

• 

  Perfect Truck for me - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DaveP - March 18 - 9:39 am

  After about a month of research debating between a full size truck (Tundra or Titan) and an SUV (Xterra) I decided that neither met my needs. The Avalanche not only looks great, but it is powerful, smooth, quiet and fun! I was able to find the exact truck I was looking for (No body cladding, Z-71, with 4.10 gears) This truck is the perfect combination of fun and practicality. I have already hauled my motorcycle in this truck and I plan on camping and using it for a lot of outdoor activity. I highly recomend this truck to anyone deciding between and truck and SUV.

• 

  1st road trip - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By sam jones - March 15 - 2:00 am

  I drove the vechile on a 2000 mile trip. it aveaged 19 mile per gallon with a average driving speed of 70. Its a real nice ride.

• 

  SPORTY WITH COMFORTABLE RIDE - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By NEWC - March 8 - 2:00 am

  THIRD ONE SINCE THEY CAME OUT CANT BEAT EM

• 

  10 - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bnsconstruction - March 8 - 2:00 am

  i bought 1 avalanche and the next day i bought another 1 for my work its a strong heavy duty car and is up to date in style ... who ever made this car thank you you made me very satisf

• 

  Awsome Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By marro1 - March 1 - 6:48 pm

  This truck rides like a dream! I have found no other brand of truck that rides as smooth and quiet. Everyone who has been a passenger in this vehicle is extremly surprised at the quality of the ride. People find it hard to believe its a truck!

• 

  New Love - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By PJSRIDE - February 27 - 1:29 pm

  I am a new/used Avalanche owner, and I am so happy with my purchace. Somebody pinch me. I traded in a 99 Tahoe, which I was very happy with, but we were approaching 100,000 miles, and hubby said it was time to trade it in. I only test drove Avalanches, because I liked the size and interior of my Tahoe, but would like the versatility of the box for bikes, fishing poles, etc. Also love the look. Love the zip, steers like a car, so so happy.