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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  Avalanche For President - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Striker - November 7 - 2:24 pm

  I just recently purchased a Chevy Avalanche. I have wanted one since I laid eyes on one for the first time. I finally was able t obuy one, so of course I got the exact one that I wanted....a Dark Blue Metallic, loaded with everything but a DVD System. I get lots of looks with it, and everyone that gets in it loves it. I have shown people the Avalanche, and most have never actually been inside one, or dont know what it does, with the drop down "midgate" which turns it into a pickup. I am a SCUBA Diver, so the Avalanche is the perfect vehicle for me, with the secured box to keep all my dive gear locked up and secure. I love the way the interior is laid out also. I cant say enough about it!

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  avalanche instead of standard pick up - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ted D. - November 1 - 2:00 am

  what a great vehicle....love it, works great but did have an issue with the service at the dealership.

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  Best Vehicle Ever Owned - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By FredTem - October 27 - 2:00 am

  After driving this truck for the last couple of months, it has become my favorite vehicle ever. I have owned 8 different vehicles (Passat, Jetta, Corolla, Ranger, Grand Cherokee, 633CSI, and a Broncho) in the last 14 years, but this is my first GM product and my favorite out of the bunch. GM succeeded in making a believer out of me. Comfortable ride, easy to use gauages, and commanding view of the road as well as a very capable off the showroom floor 4x4 system. I have recommend at least test driving one if you are in the market for a new truck.

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  02 Ride - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By kmanion - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Good all around vehicle. Excellent work vehicle.

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  solid truck for the money - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By elloco1974 - October 20 - 2:00 am

  is a very good truck for the money, I like the fact that you can put almost anything in the bed under the cover is great, and the look without the body armor.

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  Love the Style! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Lou Cole - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Drives like your always on a new road. Great to change from six passenger to hauling cement in two minutes.

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By penrose - October 15 - 2:00 am

  First week with about 200 miles on it. Sold my 2003 Dodge for a 2004 Z66 and this is quite an upgrade as far as ride and comfort. Taking $10,000 off the sticker didnt hurt either.

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  The Big Dog - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By blainejrjeni - October 9 - 2:00 am

  This truck has to be THEE "BEST" truck we ever owned, and we have owned ALOT of trucks and cars due to I work at a Chevy Dealership, We named her the BIG DOG, she is great all the way around , good on gas beleive it are not, we ge LOTS of looks on here people telling us what a beautiful truck, she is Bright red, and we didnt take the amour the plastic bottom didnt like that, she has Dual exhaust, chrome running boards and her personalized bug sheild............IAM THE "BIG" DOG!!!, she just is a reall looker from every direction! And we have LOTS of fun with her and its just a great Truck all the way around.

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  review - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jett2502 - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned a 2003 Avalance and presently own a 2004 Avalanche. Ive been very impressed with quality of ride and reliability (I had the 03 in the shop one time for a click in the drivers door) and have yet to have the 04 in the shop. Versitility is this vehicles greatest asset. Its like having a family vehicle that can be quickly converted into a pickup truck. Fuel mileage is well above average for an engine and truck of this size (15 city and 19.3 highway). The 130 inch wheelbase makes it practical for city driving and parking.

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  Dig this ...Truck??? - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By earldog - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Great Combo of Function, Form and Ride