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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  2003 Chevy Avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By James Panzica - March 25 - 2:00 am

  Purchased in July 2003, and I now have 6,500 miles on it. There have been zero problems with it. The only work needed was oil changes. Fuel economy here in a New England winter, short driving distances, runs about 10.5 mpg. Summer will take it up to 12.5. It is an exceptionally quiet vehicle, in terms of both interior and engine noise. The only complaint is that there should be more use of fabric instead of just plain plastic.

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  Innovative Truck - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Brandon Brown - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I have the luxury of driving nearly every model of truck by the three major American truck makers where I work. Based on my experience with work trucks I decided to buy a Chevrolet or Dodge. Then I decided to buy an Avalanche after test driving some. Chevrolet cant be beat for on road driving and overall family features. Innovative engineering makes this a remarkable truck - my family can use it for anything.

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  Great Truck for the money - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bert gonnella - March 14 - 10:00 am

  This is a true SUV. We use it as our family hauler. Back seat plenty big for kids. Use it as a pickup for bringing anything home fromthe local home depot We just got back from a vacation where we loaded the back end with anything that would fit and we towed a 22 foot boat and truck worked great. Great truck!

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  Best truck ever - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Aval Z71 - March 5 - 2:00 am

  Unless you are a rancher, this is the best all around truck ever. It tows like a Mack, rides like a Caddy, and changes like a Letherman pocket knife. It has taken my family and towed my 14ft trailer with two full size quads all over So AZ.

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  1 year and I still love this truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By joshb2j - March 2 - 2:00 am

  Almost weekly I am reminded of why I bought this truck--versatility with comfort and plenty of passengar and storage room. We comfortably travel with a family of four and there is a ton of room to store bags, strollers, and the like. Fuel economy blows, especially when gas is like $1.75 and you have a 35 gallon tank, but I would recommend this truck to anyone who wants an SUV and the flexibility to haul things in a truck bed. Love it, Love it, Love it.

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  Ways to improve gas mileage and comfort - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By crossroads50 - March 2 - 2:00 am

  For those of you who are complaining about gas mileage please listen up. The first 36,000 were with all stock parts. Now that the original warranty is up I have added a flowmaster exhaust kit with dual cat tips and a K&N Fuel injection performance kit which increase my gas mileage, 3 to 4 mpg. Remember to keep your feul injection system clean ( every 15,000 or so for the avalanche ) Like with any vehicle keep up on your maintenance and your vehicle will work better for you. Im happy I chose the 2002 Z71 Avalache over the suburban and the cadillac suv.

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  UP TIPP - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By ROBER7 - March 2 - 2:00 am

  THIS HAS BEEN A GREAT TRUCK. VERY COMFORTABLE RIDE. ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT IS HEAVY ON GAS IN CITY DRIVING

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  Solid Performer - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By onychomycosis - February 26 - 2:00 am

  Bought my first one as soon as they came out here in FL. Liked it a lot and liked a black one with all the new 03 toys and traded for it. This is luxury and truck combined. Just wish it ran on hydrogen instead of gas.

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  Versatility&Comfort! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By GullieZ71 - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Z71 leather package when they first came to the market. 30,000 miles later I have to say that the more I drive it the more I like it. Wife loves the comfy heated seats more than her Mercedes. I love the smooth ride and the fact that I can pull a horse trailer, put hay, feed, tack in the back but still feel like i am driving a Caddy.

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  Lovin every minute - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By atlglflvr - February 23 - 2:00 am

  I did not consider the Avalanche when considering a truck. My daughter actually suggested I look at one and boy am I glad I did. This is a great multi-purpose vehicle and would recommend it to anyone looking for an SUV but wanting the versatility of a truck.