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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Lots of electrical problems - 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Tony - January 4 - 11:15 amPurchased this vehicle (LT3) used off lease with 40K miles and have had nothing but problems. Blower motor went bad, sensor for exit cab lights went bad, Back-up sensor error all within 6 months. Love the looks, drivability and handling, but Chevrolet really needs to focus of quality. Stopped buying Fords for similar issues in late 90s and about to do the same with Chevrolet!
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2004 Z71 - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By John Hopper - December 29 - 7:20 amIve owned this vehicle for just over three years. Had to replace front shocks, fuel pumps, brakes all around. Have the "clunking" from the steering shafts, trouble with rear tailgate latches, poor fuel economy. But I love this truck, might not buy another one, but I still really like it.
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wouldnt trade my avalanche - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By liketheavalanche - December 29 - 2:00 amThis has to be the best truck I have ever owned before. I was so excited to bring it home from the dealer and my wife fell in love with it at first drive. Very unusual body design, not your typical cookie cutter type truck.
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Avafun - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By packoo - November 11 - 10:00 amStrong engine that gets thirsty with the AC on... Great for those who like Suburban type vechicle and needs the occasional pick up truck features... Body hardware useful in parking lots, plastic does well vs doors and carts slamming into it. All windows down with midgate up gives an airy feel without getting blown away on highway.
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Transmission Problems - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Richard - November 9 - 11:40 amIve had my transmission replaced once and rebuilt twice in 36k miles. First was at 16K miles-all gears except 1st and reverse gone. Next was at 26k miles. Gears 3 and 4 gone. Next was at 36K miles last month. Gears 3 and 4 gone. I have just about every other oil change they have had to fix the transmission. I have owned this since new and never use it to tow.
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Down Hill - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By jack - October 11 - 7:48 pmI bought my avalanche in june of 2003 at 2 years old the transmission went out and it doesnt jet out like it used to. Then it leaks water inside because it got hailed on and now its messed up so i think it might have shorted my electrical system because my airbag light came on. Then my passenger window recently went out so.
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Good truck, dont expect miracles!! - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By PaulM141 - October 1 - 1:11 pmOverall, GM did a great job with this redesign. The wife and kids love the interior. Have the Rear DVD for the kids, and I will say it is a godsend. Ride is really good, nice and smooth. Decent fit and finish. I think GM could have done better with the gas mileage. I know this is a 6,000lb truck, and I expected poor economy, but I am averaging 11-13mpg regularly around town. I hoped cruising the interstate in primarily V4 mode would help, but alas 16-18mpg on the highway. Great utility in this truck, just be aware that odds are you will get 15mpg on average, and that gets worse with E85 fuel. Other than that I love this truck, but costs to drive are too high for me.
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I LOVE IT!! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By KEVIN A . TAYLOR - September 30 - 10:00 amIVE HAD MY AVALANCH FOR ABOUT A MONTH NOW. GAS MILAGE ISNT GREAT BUT FEASABLE. I AVERAGE ABOUT 350 MILES A TANK. ABOUT $47 TO FILL UP FROM EMPTY AT ABOUT $1.79 A GALLON. REGULAR UNLEADED SEEMS TO PERFORM BEST IN THE ENGINE. POWER IS GOOD ALTHOUGH THROTTLE RESPONSE COULD STAND TO BE A TAD BETTER. SOME OF THE INTERIOR IS SOMEWHAT CHEAP BUILD BUT MANAGEABLE.
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Pratical Chevy Avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Joe Paszki - September 27 - 10:00 amGreat vehicle,I purchased 1 model year to early,Chevrolet did away with the "plastic" sides and added an optional Bose Radio system!Great additions!!!2003 models LOOK GREAT!!!!!
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Most Functional Truck Made - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Biff - August 28 - 10:58 amI gave up my 2001 Toyota Tacoma d-cab for a used Z-71 with 50,000 miles over 3 years ago. For a family of 5, the usability of the back seats is second to none. Where the Toyota 3.4L V6 screamed to tow my boat, the Avalanche handles it like nothing. The flexibility of the mid-gate is terrific. The bed tonneau panels are easy to remove and have remained water tight. The truck has a smooth ride on the road but can still perform off-road. Now I have 87,000 miles and only problem has been the rear power door locks have frozen up and need to be opened manually.
