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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  Comfort fo Handicap (Avalanche) - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Paulie - March 22 - 7:38 am

  I could not believe how comfortable this vehicle was. Ive had several hip replacements done and I must say the comfort and handling is the best Ive had.

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  Two Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By STEVE SURDICK - March 20 - 1:29 pm

  This vehicle has been used to tow our show car all over the country and hasnt missed a beat. Storage is one of the best features. We will be looking at the new version when it becomes availiable.

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  Perfect Truck for me - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DaveP - March 18 - 9:39 am

  After about a month of research debating between a full size truck (Tundra or Titan) and an SUV (Xterra) I decided that neither met my needs. The Avalanche not only looks great, but it is powerful, smooth, quiet and fun! I was able to find the exact truck I was looking for (No body cladding, Z-71, with 4.10 gears) This truck is the perfect combination of fun and practicality. I have already hauled my motorcycle in this truck and I plan on camping and using it for a lot of outdoor activity. I highly recomend this truck to anyone deciding between and truck and SUV.

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  1st road trip - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By sam jones - March 15 - 2:00 am

  I drove the vechile on a 2000 mile trip. it aveaged 19 mile per gallon with a average driving speed of 70. Its a real nice ride.

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  Great Truck But Has Problems - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By enforcer_2006 - March 14 - 1:45 pm

  I bought my Avalanche used. It is a 1500 Z-71 with 93K miles every option imaginable. I love the way it drives and is really good in snow and ice. The problems I am experiencing is the water pump, steering gear box, and Bilstein shocks have all just gone out at the same time!!! Talk about dumping some money into it all at once. Another problem is that when you drive the truck down the interstate and the wind is blowing, and it does not have to be blowing hard, you get blown all over the interstate. It is gets so bad that I actually take the long way to work using backroads when it gets windy. When I accelerate hard, I get a metalic sound coming from the engine and Chevy cant diagnose it.

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  "Flash" Your Friends - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By CaptainGary - March 13 - 10:00 am

  I agree with the guy who thinks the price should be raised so as to maintain an "air" of exclusivity. This is the best vehicle Ive ever owned, period. For some reason, I got her for $9850 below sticker. I guess Chevy is trying to put every other truck manufacturer out of business. I got the Z-71, leather, sunroof combination and it turns heads everyday inside and out! She can handle off-roading too. The Z-71 package is a steal. Make sure to add the 4:10s. GM can finally say it again: "MARK OF EXCELLENCE!"

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  SPORTY WITH COMFORTABLE RIDE - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By NEWC - March 8 - 2:00 am

  THIRD ONE SINCE THEY CAME OUT CANT BEAT EM

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  10 - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bnsconstruction - March 8 - 2:00 am

  i bought 1 avalanche and the next day i bought another 1 for my work its a strong heavy duty car and is up to date in style ... who ever made this car thank you you made me very satisf

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  horrible - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By daviddandersonsr - March 4 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle leaks loads of dust into the cab and bed, the torque is too low for large loads, the storage boxes on the outside of the bed are useless(leak dust and water), back seat room is very limited for an adult on an extended road trip, dvd player doesnt rotate to side views(you have to sit in the middle of the rear seat), rear radio controls are confusing to use, exterior plastic trim is poorly attached to the body and makes a lot of noise at road speed because it buffets in the wind, seats are hard and impossible to adjust to a comfortable position, you cannot load a 4-wheeler in the bed.

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  Best Personal Use Truck Yet - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mjjust - March 1 - 10:19 pm

  This has to be the best personal use truck on the market. 16 mpg city, 22 mpg on highway, tows my 7000 pound boat without trouble, rides great, and comes standard with removable bed cover, built in locking storage (which work great as an ice chest), bed mat, etc. No mechanical issues, warranty expired without ever needing service.