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:

• 

  Avalanche Rating - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Jeffreyd - December 15 - 10:00 am

  It is a great vehicle, good fuel economy for a full size truck, great ride, very versatile and a joy to drive.

• 

  Love my Chevy - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Bush - December 14 - 5:42 pm

  I never thought Id like the smaller bed but not once has it ever been an issue. I love the locking rear tailgate and hard cover. I go camping in the truck and simply lay down the back seat and put my pillow behind the front seats and feet out in the bed. Its secure and comfortable. I recommend the Avalanche to anyone looking for something different without giving up their truck. Believe it or not the locking boxes on the side are pretty cool too. I go boating and I also trailer motorcycles to the trails and its a good place to store my straps and hitch. The lock too so my stuff is safe. Plenty of room for the family and plenty of power to pull my 4,500 pound boat through the hills.

• 

  Great truck for the money - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By ivan rubin - December 13 - 12:55 am

  I have had it for two months, absolutely satisfied in every way - thanks Chevy.

• 

  Master of all trades - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Beez - December 12 - 2:00 am

  This truck does it all. I have driven Ford Lariats the past 5 years, but after seeing the Avalanche I decided to give Chevrolet another chance. I needed alot of interior room to transport clients, but still needed the truck box to haul items. There are even storage compartments on the rear sides that I use as toolboxes and/or coolers. Most people cant believe the smooth quiet ride. Best vehicle Ive ever owned!

• 

  Dads new truck ! - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Tom Morin - December 10 - 1:18 pm

  Best crossover truck on the market for all weather use. Great power for towing, from small boats to six-place snowmobile trailers.

• 

  First Time Truck Owner - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Arthur Russell - December 7 - 7:41 pm

  The avalanche has plenty of power and handles very well for a large vehicle. The only problems so far was a knocking sound that was later diagnosed as a loose cross member. The vehicle has been a real pleasure to own so far.

• 

  the Terrible 5.3L engine - 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By D. R. Jared - December 5 - 5:53 pm

  There have been complaints about the 5.3L engine since 2007, yet GM has done nothing about it. With only 62000 miles, I had to have $1100 worth of repairs to the engine, due to poor design. The engine had developed a solid engine miss, only 20,000 miles after purchasing the truck used. The independent mechanic shop had to look up the cause/effect/recommended repair on their independent web reference. The result: due to a design fault in the valve cover(s) , a replacement had been designed by GM that - supposedly - fixed the problem; oh, that and a premature tune-up, because the spark plugs had been completely gunked up with oil from the poor design. Now, only 20,000 miles later, the same problem has popped up again. A different repair shop described the same remedy as before! This shop owner said he LOVED this engine, as it earned him a lot of money! Personally, he owns a similar truck, but with the 6.0 L engine.

• 

  This is wonderful - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By shaun phares - December 4 - 12:30 am

  I was doubtful when I first saw the Avalanche, but after I bought it, I realized it was the best vehicle I have ever bought. Believe me, Ive owned a few. It has everything I could have wanted in a truck and then some.

• 

  Love it!!!!! - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By byerda - December 1 - 1:29 pm

  I bought the Z66 package and it rides great! smooth acceleration plenty of power and looks cool without the body hardware. Took it to the dealer to fix a suspension noise, they found it, fixed it, same day. Best riding vechicle I have ever owned.

• 

  Awesome Truck - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By femaledriver - December 1 - 12:04 am

  this vehicle is awesome!! This is my third one. Was in an accident in the second one - totalled the truck not a scratch on me. Very safe feeling in this truck!!