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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Style and comfort - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Kingpole - November 10 - 2:51 amI was more than happy to be able to upgrade my Chevy vehicle from a Tracker (2WD convertible) which was fun to drive-like a golf cart, to the Avalanche. WOW! I have had it for 3 months now and enjoy every second driving it. Power, style, and smooth ride. I should mention that the stock stereo/CD system works just fine. I have Bose in the house and thought Id be spoiled and would need the Bose quality in the truck-NAH. It rocks just fine.
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One Awesome Truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Anthony F. Dugo Jr. - October 31 - 11:41 pmI have had my Avalanche(Z-66) for 1 year now. I bought it used & I can tell you this is one awesome Chevy truck. Its bright red & a head turner. I get compliments all the time. It has everything but the kitchen sink in it. .It has a very comfortable ride for a truck . No other competitor can touch this baby! ! Even with the two wheel drive, she glides through the snow like Santa on his sleigh. Its a heavy truck, and tracks through the snow & mud with ease. . Although she likes her fuel, I did not but this vehicle for economy,but since installing a K&N filter and switching to premeium fuel, she runs like a dream. Went from 14.5 to 17.5 mpg. Thanks Chevy for one awesome truck! !
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Need some inprovements - 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche
By zonesarge - October 31 - 10:54 pmThe vehicle is a good riding vehicle Very comfortable to drive. Have had several problems with vehicle. Need something to tell you when the tail gate is down maybe a light on the dash. Very hard to see to the rear of the vehicle
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It leaks when it rains!! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By mad as hell - October 31 - 10:00 amThe water seems to leak in from the panels covering the bed and behind the mid-gate. At some point the water in the bed overflows into the cab under the mid-gate soaking the carpet in the rear of the truck. This happened on the sixth day I had the truck. I took it back to the dealership and they told me they would try to fix it under the warranty but it was pretty much my problem. Ive called everybody I could think of to complain but with no results. Ive taken the truck into two different service centers 3 times for a total of 19 days and it still leaks.
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Great Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By ckellerman - October 27 - 10:00 amAs a long time P/U owner, this adds luxury while keeping some P/U utility. The leather, sound, programables, etc. all make the Av. comfortable and fun to operate.
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we love it! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By sunshine25026 - October 27 - 10:00 amonly had the avalanche for a couple of weeks but we love it...would not have another vehicle.
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GREAT - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By ARI DELGADO - October 27 - 10:00 amTHE G.M SHOULD HAVE A STYLE SET FOR THE Z 65 AND THE Z 71 MODELS THEY WILL COME WITH A TYPE OF PACKEGS SET UP SAME TYPE OF FENDERS AND THE OUY SIDE THE SAME AND THE INTIRIOR I HAD A 2003 KIA SORENTO E.X AND THEY COME ALL THE SAME AND THE L.X WAS DIFFERENT, BUT WE ARE VERRY HAPPY WITH THE AVALANCH I NEVER THOUTH IT WAS GOING TO BE SO COMFTERBALL THANK YOU ARI DELGADO
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my avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Mark emark12222 - October 18 - 2:00 amLove 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 pmMine 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 pmThis 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.
