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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  Only one major problem - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By rtonon - January 30 - 12:02 am

  I had an F150 before the Avalanche. The Avalanches ride and quietness rivals that of a quality sedan. Bose stereo is incredible. Love the midgate and what it allows you to do. No other truck can do what this truck does. Ive used this feature several times and am glad I had this vehicle. A negative would be having to move the fronts seats foward to allow the rear seat to fold down to fully lower the midgate. A removable rear seat headrest would solve the problem. I now have 71000 miles and have yet to do anything but normal oil changes. Brakes are original still. Still love the truck

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  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Avalanche2002 - January 29 - 2:00 am

  Very powerful 2500 Avalanche with 8.1L vortec engine. 14 miles/gallon, very smooth ride, good pick up for an over 3 ton vehicle. very little sway on curves. strong runner, no complaints.

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  Best All Around Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Mr Wally - January 28 - 2:48 pm

  I have the Z66 Package with all the goodies. When I first tried out this vehicle, I was sold. We (wife and I) are snowbirds and travel back and forth from NY to FL very comfortably. Gas mileage could be better but we average about 19.5 on the road and 17 off. I like the convenience of having a pickup body available. I carried some 12 vinyl siding pcs. inside with the tailgate closed! Thanks Chevy

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  Kims Avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Kim - January 26 - 1:37 pm

  I really enjoy my 2002 Avalache . Its a lot of fun! Very comfortable. Very big though. Its a beautiful design as I have running boards and to help older freinds in and out of truck. Cold days the seat warmers are GREAT! I love my burnt orange color and enjoy all the diversities in accomadates all my families different interests! The ONLY problem I have is I cannot get my 2 kayaks up onthe roof with the standard tie downs! My old van I could. I will shortly be purchase racks for my truck and that will solve that. I anxiously await the falling of the gas prices!! I LOVE my Avalanche! Sooo comfortable!

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  Awesome truck - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By RAy - January 24 - 11:42 am

  I have owned 17 vehicles, most of them trucks, and this is by far the best. The ride is excellent and it handles like a dream. It is a very quiet ride and has a lot of power. Huals a ton of pellets with no problem and back is very easy to convert. I would recommend to anyone.

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  My Cool Truck oops SUV - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By maddog_coyote - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Love the Avalanche. Have had it since March this year. Regularly convert it for large items from Home Depot! Going camping often...its just great.

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  Best ride in a truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bestarcher - January 23 - 2:56 am

  I must say I love this truck. It rides like a big American sedan not a truck. But it is all truck and will carry anything. Only problem I had was the front driver’s window got stuck down from ice build up. GM replaced window regulator. Power steering box was replaced, not a common problem.

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  Hookem - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BigHoss45 - January 20 - 4:17 am

  Ive owned my Burnt Orange (okay Sunset Metalic) Z66 for a little over 1 1/2 years now and have about 15,000 miles on it. It rides and handles just fine. And for a big truck the mileage is good. 14-15 mpg city and 17- 18 mgg highway. The popping noise in the front end is a bit disconcerting. But will take it in to my dealer for a fix.

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  Excellent! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By EDWARDS - January 19 - 5:29 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. Great comfortable ride, great towing performance, good fuel economy. I use this truck for towing a 28 foot trailer. Only time I needed service (besides regular service) was for the minor recalls by company. I am looking forward on getting the tent accessory for the back for camping. Rides better than my 2005 GM midsize. OnStar very good.

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  Happy Happy Happy - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By AVdriver - January 11 - 11:17 pm

  This is my second Avalanche, I put 7200 miles on the first one and never had a problem. Great truck