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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  Love this truck - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bchamba - March 31 - 2:00 am

  This is the nicest riding auto I have ever owned. I have had a yukon, silverado, t100, and a Landcruiser, and I have to say this is the best riding and to me anyway, best looking truck ever. I got mine with all the bells and whistles, and I have had great luck with it so far.

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  My First Truck - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Dan Marshall - March 27 - 5:13 pm

  Excellent and fun truck to drive. Fell in love with it when I first saw it.

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  great truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By john brady - March 26 - 2:00 am

  first chevy in 40 years,boy I Been missing out on a great ride

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  A Great Truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Marvin Thompson - March 20 - 10:00 am

  First this truck has a great ride for a 3/4 ton vehicle,along with a very strong 350 horse engine. This is the best vehicle i have had opportunity to own.

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  Multi-purpose Monster - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Marty - March 18 - 3:01 pm

  I love my new avalanche. I upgraded from a 2WD Sierra w/bare essentials to the Z-71 with every option except the DVD player($1200 not worth it). What a difference. This truck is suprisingly nimble, and the turning radius is less than that of extended cab trucks(ie-easier for my wife to park). Towing capacity is solid. We towed our Grand Prix on a car trailer(total lbs= 6900) from FLA to WA state, only stopping for 9 hours and driving for 66. There were times I forgot I was even towing. What a beast! The midgate is awesome. Ive halled everything from drywall(full sheets) with the tailgate closed to 3 backhoe scoops of bark.

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  Very nice truck - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By PinoyRam - March 15 - 5:30 am

  Bought this truck for my wife, but wish I could drive it everyday. My six year old loves the moonroof, teenager loves the XM radio, both dogs like the removable rear glass window so they can stick their head inside while riding in the bed. The only thing my wife complains about is parking. As far as problems, the oxygen sensor had to be replaced at 2500 miles and one of the speed sensors malfunctioned (5000 miles) so the check ABS and traction control lights came on.

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  The many uses of Avalanche - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Art Arnold - March 14 - 6:03 pm

  I have had an Avalanche for 1 1/2 years. I have used it to go to beach, go on trips with my sons baseball team (transporting team players and equipment), go on vacations, and also to go out on the town. Being a contractor, I have used this vehicle on my jobs to transport materials and tools. I have loaded this vehicle up with lots of plywood, lumber, concrete, a/c equipment, landscaping materials, cabinets, office furniture, and many other things. The great part about it is that many of the times that certain materials were being transported, it was raining and none of it got wet, because of the Avalanches closed in design. This vehicle is great in every way, for fun, family, and work.

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  BEST VEHICLE IVE EVER OWNED - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DDT - March 13 - 2:00 am

  I,ve owned many luxury cars and several types of trucks. My avalanche rides as smooth as cadillac without the annoying bottoming out on the dips in many city. streets.It is very quiet and hauls my cargo completely weather tight.I cannot say enough good things about this truck. It is truly the ultimate vehicle.

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  Awesome Avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By fosty - March 2 - 12:20 pm

  Plenty of room for the kids and cargo. Super power and what a ride. I love this Avalanche. Good job Chevrolet!

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  Love my truck - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By union worker - February 19 - 9:09 pm

  Purchased new, wheel alignment out of specs from factory it pulled left on test drive. Oxygen sensor went out in 1900 miles- took two days for part. Lots of interior room room for four large adults. Thats why I bought it. At 5400lbs, good touring vehicle and can haul/tow