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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  best truck yet - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By thebigdog1 - August 7 - 2:00 am

  I have had 3 Explorers, 1 Wrangler and 1 Durango - this is by far the best SUV that I have owned. I thought it might be too large for daily driving, but that is not the case. Its too large for my garage, but thats a small price to pay with a truck like this.

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  everything I thought it would be - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ted the Pool Man - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I test drove the Escalade and the Avalanche.....the money difference was a factor but not primary. The Escalade was great loved it.....but the Avalanche seems just as good, saved allot of money and after 30 days is great.

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  A real head turner - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By juguetico - August 5 - 2:00 am

  This is a really fun truck to drive. It is great on the freeway as well as off- road. the emergency brake and all 4 brake pads had to be changed at 45,000.

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  Turns Heads, fun to drive! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Happy in Kentucky - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful truck! I get lots and lots of positive comments everywhere I go. " Is it an SUV or a Truck?, How does it change? I work as a trainer and consultant covering several states. It has a comfortable ride similar to my suburban with better mileage 18.5 + on the road. Can get up and go too! Never had to do anything to it except, buy gas, change the oil and replace a flat tire. Very versital, fun to drive. Only complaint I have is that the spare tire is a 16" and the rest of the tires are 17". Go figure! Recommend Highly!

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  Fun And Functional - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By J. Nichols - July 31 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Chev Avalance! What an excellent vehicle that is fun to drive and functional too! Every week I drive over mountain passes, rain,snow sleat, hail or sun.... the Avalanche gets it done. I also drive 30 to 50,000 miles a year and must add that it a very comfortable vehicle to drive too!

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  accident - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By amviolinst07 - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Driving on a simi busy street would be nothing with this vechile right? Well I got into an accident with this vehicle.. with a saturn car.. my car was totalled and the saturn only had a small dent in the side! I was turning at a light and the saturn ran the red light which then hit me.. i was on my way to pick up my baby thank god he wasnt in there with me!!

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  Better than expected - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mattb - July 28 - 2:00 am

  Our Avalanche exceeded most of our expectations. It is smooth, comfortable and powerful. It is both pleasant to drive and pleasant as a front or back seat passenger - in fact it has become our trip car of choice. I never expected to be so happy with the purchase of a "truck", however I have not looked back since or regretted my choice. Outstanding vehicle.

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  owner - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By norm lambertus - July 25 - 2:00 am

  i think its a great runningand rideing vehicle.the interior s leather and a pleasure to ride in.the on star helps you to find where your goin. its roomy onthe back seat. good stereo system.

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  Big Red - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By David Kw - July 25 - 2:00 am

  Well this is the best truck i ever owned that could change into any size i need.Rides like a car very quite and very easy to use.

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  cool truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By solof - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I liked Avalanche before I bought it, but I love it now since Ive used it.