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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  Great SUV/Truck - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Batteman87 - April 4 - 1:32 pm

  Just made the jump to this vech. My wife and I love it so far. Offers great get up and go when needed. Goes from V8 mode to 4 cyldr when the power is not needed. Ride is great. Turns like a truck should turn. I expected this to be poor from what I read but have been surprised with how good it is for a truck of its size. Fun to drive. Feel very safe in it.

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  Like a Rock - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Tyrone - April 1 - 9:18 pm

  Ive put 109,000 miles on this truck in 30 months only having to replace an evap sensor at about 65.00. The ride is superb. My family actually looks forward to trips in this vehicle. I always liked the Av, but didnt buy the earlier model because of the plastic body cladding. When we wear this one out will definitely by another.

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  This truck - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bowins - March 19 - 7:55 pm

  My 2007 Avalanche never ceases to impress. It looks good, drives like a cadillac, and is just pure joy. Bose stereo and electric moonroof make it oh soo much better. These guys are known to burn oil, a local dealership was able to take care of it for me though. This thing runs smooth.

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  Best Truck I have ever owned! - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Bman-Colorado - March 10 - 4:14 pm

  I bought this truck in December 2007 and have just eclipsed 25K. I honestly wake up every day excited that I get to drive it:~). I have put a few modifications on it such as the performance air intake, Magnaflo exhaust as well as a superchip (which, believe it or not improved my gas mileage). Last summer i bought an Coleman E3 pop- up trailer and was amazed how easy it hauled! I have taken it 4wheeling and it does superbly [i now wish i had a skid plate:~)] As to the fuel economy: I bought a truck! It has an engine that equates to a Chevy 350! I did not or do not expect to get 15mpg. (with the superchip however i have received 16.5 in the city and 21 on the highway) GREAT TRUCK!

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  Believe all of the good stuff - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Ron M - March 9 - 7:37 pm

  I bought my Av new in 2004. GM should have named it the Transformer. There isnt anything I cant do with this truck. I carry full sheets of plywood and sheetrock (and it stays dry in the rain). Ive carried firewood, gravel and anything else a regular truck does. Ive gone camping with four others in the passenger compartment, my four wheeler in the back, two canoes on top, towing four wheelers and gear on the trailer behind. I live in Maine and the Av keeps me cool when its in the high nineties and toasty warm when its forty something below. It stays on the road during a blizzard like a bengal tiger on its next meal. I will own this Av forever. Really. I still own my 72 Dodge Demon.

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  Solid family truck!! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By edwardstd - February 24 - 10:52 pm

  This is a great truck and family vehicle all in one. I have owned suburbans and this allows the large quad seating area for the family when needed and then haul dirt with having to worry about destroying the interior. Mission accomplished for multi purpose vehicle. Performance is great as I tow boats and trailers regularly. 3/4 ton would have been nice at times but for the average person not needed, probably why they discontinued the option.

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  One great SUT. Nothing better anywhere. - 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By ReelLove - February 22 - 10:16 am

  2009 is my 3rd Avalanche (LT2-Z71). Ride is stiffer than the 05 Z71. If you do not go off road think 2x @ Z71 pkg. Much quieter than 05. Lots of leg room everywhere. This vehicle feels bigger than the 05. Improved gas mileage & performance from 05. Interior redesign is luxurious but I miss being able to put my hat on the dashboard and it staying put. Handling is very good, with little to no body roll. This is still the greatest, most versatile vehicle on the road today. I have 5 cars, & the Avalanche is always my 1st choice to drive. Quality is first class, cabin is A-#1, durability is never an issue. If you are looking for a large vehicle, put this one on the top of your list.

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  questionable head lights - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By CLARENCE WHITE - February 15 - 9:50 am

  The top parking light housing are like a piece of candy. the inside clamp that you snap the light in breaks super easy. Also the main driving light has a silver cap on the inside housing that falls off from the inside and eventually blows the inside bulb out. im writing this because something has to be done because this is my third top light housing that broke. This is my first main light housing that broke.

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  Squeek ,Rattle and Barely Roll - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DBLD - February 12 - 7:30 am

  Leather seats are very comfortable but heated seat on drivers side stoped working shortly after purchase. Interior squeaks and rattles all over!!! (dash,console,doors,etc.) MPG is horrible sticker said 12-16, this one gets 12.5 going down hill on the highway and thats on a good day!!Bed cover leaks like its not even there!! Tranny and drive line pops,dangs and jerks carnival ride! Im going bankrupt on fuel, trading for Ford or Dodge ASAP!!

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  200k no problems - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mike - February 6 - 1:57 pm

  I had a 2002 and put 200k on it b4 I sold it. Never had a problem other than a plugged sock in the fuel pump from dirty fuel. never rattled, squeaked. flexed. I towed the heck out of this truck and changed oil at 10k to 12k miles. after about 200k was using 1 qt in between changes. I now have a 2007 w/ 130 and its even better.