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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  Ya gotta love it - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By rodebykr - August 26 - 2:00 am

  In response to a March 2002 review, yes, my tailgate has opened on its own several times. The trick is to close it firmly & try to open before you move. If its tight, it will stay closed. If not, it will sound like you ran over something when it drops opens! I had a problem with water leaks in the 3-piece bed cover. The seals did not appear to be attached well & water sometimes poured in. Per the dealer, the seals are not factory installed, but are installed at some later time. To correct, the dealer first tried to reseat the seals. This wasnt a complete fix, so they borrowed a cover off another truck & Ive had no problems since.

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  THIS IS IT -- NO REGRETS - BUY ONE - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ved A Vanlin - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Quiet, responsive, safe. Good riding in comfort. We avoided a headon collision involving a careless construction worker who was leaving work early. He thought all lanes were one way travel. He was wrong, heading straight into our Avalanche. Our snap extremely quick and harsh turn resulted in the Avalance and workers car stopped, side by side, almost touching. (No sign of the Avalanche tipping over.) RESPONSIVE AVALANCHE. SAFE AVALANCHE.

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  50,000 update--pretty good - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By dlz - July 8 - 3:14 pm

  Thought itd be a good time for this. At 50000mi my Av is doing well, with a few problems. This winter the 4WD started kicking out when the wheels slipped and dash read "service 4WD". Later this spring rear parking sensors quit. Both computer glitches, warranty fix. Oil consumption a little high, maybe a quart per 3000mi. Built-in oil life monitor would let me go over 8000mi between changes! All Ive read says this monitor is as accurate as can be so I run it to 10% life and change it. Hwy MPG as high as 19 in warm weather. Paint, fit and finish, interior leather holding up very well, just wipe down those stylin aluminum wheels every car wash. A darn good truck, and Im not easy on it!

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  Very Happy - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By SA - July 7 - 9:07 pm

  I purchased this as a pre-owned vehicle to supplement my prior truck on account of a growing family. It has been excellent! I am pleased that its value still exceeds what I paid for it. We recently purchased a travel trailer, and it tows with an ease that makes one feel a trailer is not present. The only repair I have had is the power window motor on the passenger door - a common problem with GM trucks.

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  Awesome Truck - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By RayRay - July 7 - 1:04 pm

  Upgraded my Silverado to an Avalanche and so far, no disappointments. I love this truck. Smooth on the highways and plenty of power. A great looking truck with a luxury car feel.

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  Good truck. - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ron Duncan - May 15 - 2:02 am

  I bought this truck new and the only things I dislike are; cant see behind me when parking, brakes are weak, not enough power, the back has never sealed right and the drivers side headrest has always been defective at the bottom.

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  No complaints yet - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By kingsso - April 24 - 12:02 pm

  My truck is doing well thus far. It turns a lot of heads, beautiful truck.

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  Good vehicle - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Denver - April 4 - 1:45 pm

  I run my truck pretty hard high speed and for long periods and over the years I have averaged over 17 mpg highway and city combined, I have even pulled small trailers and the gas mileage was still good, Im going to purchase another Avalanche soon this will make my third one and am very satisfied with the overall performance.

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  Amazing Z71 Truck!! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jharken - March 28 - 9:37 pm

  This truck has it all! It looks great and the ride is even better! The inside of the vehicle is well built and everything is within easy reach. Had only one problem with a CV joint but its a 7 year old truck stuff will break eventually. And the best part is I still get 16-18 miles a gallon with this giant!

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  03 avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By keller - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Great truck. Rides nice and smooth even with the Z71 package. Lacks the quickness of my 99 2 door Tahoe but it also weighs 2000+ lbs. plenty of highway get up an go. Very fuunctional.