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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  my avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Mark emark12222 - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Love it. Its very quiet, the steering is awesome, I have no idea how the editors review was so low on that. You get a 6 passenger vehicle(comfortably) without an overextended truck. And still have the 8 bed

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  With 75000 miles on it this is a true ev - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mike - October 7 - 2:30 pm

  Mine is a 2002 with 75210 miles on it. I have owned it since new and love this truck just as much as the day I bought it. I have taken several extended trips in it and will not buy anything other than an Avalanche for as long as Chevrolet makes them.

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  AWESOME - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Michael6013 - September 29 - 5:06 pm

  This truck is awesome. I debated with myself for a long time before breaking down and getting one. I dont regret my decision, I love it. I also believe the truck looks best in the Sunburst color. This truck has the best comfort I have ever owned. I traded my Tahoe in for it.

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  Aavalanche - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By avalanche - September 23 - 4:03 pm

  I have been very satified with my purchase. It has proven to be very reliable and durable.I can ride with style and grace or pull, haul, and move anything I desire with no problem. I will be trading for the next year model soon.

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  Fun to drive - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By sherman9 - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I would say overall the avalanche is an exciting and fun vechile to drive and hadles great in all coditions, especially wet and rough conditions hadles great.

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  One versatile truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By R Stephens - September 18 - 4:49 am

  I ordered My Avalanche while stationed in Japan without ever test driving one. I was not disappointed. We now live in Germany and get lots of attention and questions from the locals. It is definately one of the most comfortable trucks Ive ever driven and it has no problems getting up to speed on the Autobahn. My only complaint is the speed limiter switch kicks in at about 100 MPH. Parking in German garages can be a little nerve racking with its size, but it will fit. Since it is the only 4 wheeled vehicle we have here the ability to carry the family or lots of cargo is very nice. We wouldnt trade it for anything.

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  5 months and loving it! - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Anthony in NY - September 16 - 4:12 am

  To provide a fair assessment, I waited 5000 miles to post this. The Avalanche had by far the best ride of any truck in the class, with the Z-71 package being a relative bargain. Fit and finish is excellent engine is smooth, ride exceptional for a behemoth of 5800 lbs OnStar is a plus very capable offroad and in the sand. It powers right through. There is nothing like the ease of use of the bed. It has held everything from a yard of topsoil, fishing gear, home depot trips and it handled them all well with ease. The side locking compartments around the bed are valuable and the truck could not be sturdier. Truly the best all-around vehicle I have owned and the most comfortable truck to date. No real complaints. Gas mileage on the hwy is great- about 21. Around town its exactly what youd expect- 13 or so. Air pressure makes a big difference in mileage on the Avalanche. Too low and it drops. If you can afford the gas, this is the truck.

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  I love my Av! - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By GAUTHIERTROY - September 15 - 4:48 pm

  Love it! Drove on a family vacation 7,000 miles. It was great. The only drawback is the gas mileage. If you use your luggage rack, it will drink extra gas. It rides heavy on the highway and handles well in the mountains. I dont regret one thing about this purchase except me and my wife fighting to see who gets to drive it.

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  Avalanche-best by far - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By SEEFUS - September 15 - 10:00 am

  This truck has by far the best ride and comfort of any I have owned. It pulls great and gets acceptable mpg. Houling stuff in an enclosed and dry area has been great.Every one loves the way it looks, drives and does its job.I have compared it to the 04 fords and its just that much better in every day driving its no contest.

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  2002 Red Avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DH - September 4 - 4:53 pm

  Great vehicle. The longer I have it, the more I like it. No matter where I am or what I am doing, I can always pick up more people or cargo. It is very flexible to meet whatever demands you put onto it. The only downside it has is the fuel economy, but it is a big truck. The four wheel drive works great and it is very reliable. It rides very well, more like a luxury vehicle than a truck.