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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LEAK LEAK LEAK - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By brokeagain - December 23 - 2:00 amI bought my Avalanche new in 2001. Its been in the shop at least 7 times because the carpets are constantly soaked. The dealer keeps trying to tell me the drains are clogged. WHAT DRAINS and WHY ARE THEY CLOGGED??? The last time it was in they showed me 2 holes in the floor at the front of the bed under a flap . I was told by the SERVICE MANAGER " your not supposed to use it like a truck because its an SUV." I was using it to bring leaf bags to the dump. Nothing major....right?
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perfect - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By charles Henthorn - December 20 - 2:00 amOur 2002 Northface Avalanche is the best truck weve ever driven. The handeling is great, easy to drive, very comfortable. I call it my Mercedes on steroids. It always performs like a pro, always able to do what I need. From flowers to plywood, to china cabinets to family. Very minimal road noise and good sound system. The mileage is good for a truck of this size. Would not give it up for anything on the road today.
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Avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Slapshot - December 17 - 2:00 amThe truck is great. Just like driving a couch. More comfortable than I thought a truck could be. All the power you need. I pull a 22 foot fishing boat with no problem. I have dropped the rear folding seat to carry 8 sheets of plywood and the tailgate closes. My 62" son fits very comfortably in the back seat.
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Good for the money - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By hgusmao - December 13 - 10:00 amI love the way it drives needs a little more performance into it
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Couldnt wait for the next Silverado - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Steve R - December 8 - 4:53 pmThe new style is tops for GM. Ive seen the spy photos of the new Silverados and wasnt blown away. Didnt really want an Avalanche, but found one that had every option but a heated block. Dealer made me a fair deal and I jumped on it. From my 03 Silverado SS, this vehicle glows with class and style.
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avalanch - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By streetcop - December 6 - 2:00 amI love everything about it execpt that it has no place to store the wireless headphones.
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My Avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Colt90 - December 6 - 2:00 amI have owned the Chevy Avalanche Z66 for about 7 months and I LOVE it. It is fun to drive and practical.
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Excellent Choice - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Yvonne Hibbert - December 5 - 10:00 amI never in my life thought that I would purchase a truck. I saw the commercial on TV, "change for a dollar" and I just had to go and check it out. I took it for a test drive and decided that it was the one for me.
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Great Truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By kenshuck - December 3 - 2:00 amI really like this truck. We purchased it to pull our Airstream trailer which it has done flawlessly. Ours is Arrival Blue which is nice but I sure like the yellow. I dont expect to use the back seat access feature to the bed but really like the fold down backseat for our dog.
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It is big - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By bigj4617 - December 2 - 2:00 amI like every thing about my Avalanche except the gas mileage. I am considering putting a camper top on it because the bed with the covers on it is to low to haul large objects with out exposing them to the elements. all in all i am very pleased with the truck and would buy another one.
