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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Incredible vehicle. - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Phil P - April 21 - 6:35 pmExactly 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 amSuper 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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Best Vehicle I have ever owned - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Reed Fleming - April 15 - 1:21 amMy Avalanche just turned 109,000 miles. Zero problems, original brakes. Oil Changes (synthetic every 15,000 miles)
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Sweet ride - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By tony - April 14 - 1:10 amjust 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 amI 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.
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I love my truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Janie Biddix - April 3 - 2:00 amThe 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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Avalanche - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By jhp625 - April 3 - 2:00 amGreat ride, very comfortable to drive. Auto four wheel drive a plus.
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Most Versatile Suv Yet - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Covinaraider - April 3 - 2:00 amIve had this vehicle almost a year now and have been nothing but happy! The comfort, power, and versatility give it a package that my friends envy. It drives smoother than a tahoe, and has done everything that I have needed it to do. Yeah of course I wish it got better gas mileage (16 mpg overall), but which SUV/Truck owner doesnt.
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A perfect Dads weekend truck! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Freightbob - April 2 - 10:00 am90% 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 pmI 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.
