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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  ms - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mollysue - December 2 - 2:00 am

  Very quiet easy to drive vehicle. For those wanting a big SUV this is the one. You can take it any where, big city or two track.

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  Woof Truck! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By vtxguy - December 1 - 2:00 am

  What can I say!I love this truck! Its so very comfortable to drive. Its very usefull in many different situations. From theater to hauling dirtbikes, or sleds.

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  perfect truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By curts - December 1 - 2:00 am

  We absolutley love this truck!I drive it around town and take frequent road trips.Handles itself perfectly in both situations.Great for hauling our crew and those stops to home depot.

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  cool truck - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By eddie johnston - November 30 - 10:00 am

  overall,a nice vehicle,underdash needs insulation ,tapping on top or front of dashboard sounds hollow,makes you think its cheapley built

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  Great Truck ,Very Happy - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By golfzone - November 30 - 2:00 am

  I have had this truck for about 3 months now (without hardware option) and it is the best vechile ride and the features that is offers are great and with the Z66 option it is well worth it. The XM sateillite radio is great as well . The Bose sound system in these truck is unbeleivable. This truck offers full inside interior not like some of the other trucks out on the market.

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  The perfect truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Aetatis - November 14 - 2:00 am

  This is my favorite vehicle right now. It is just the right combination of comfort and power. It is so versatile. What other V8 can haul long pieces of lumber covered from a rainstorm at Home Depot? The z66 package rides like a cadillac. But it is still a truck. The midgate function has proved invaluable. I have no complaints!

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  The Beaste - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By H. Pollak - November 14 - 2:00 am

  What to say... When I forst saw the previews in 99 I was impressed. Now that Im an owner, Im even more impressed. Vary little body role, great get up and go, I get anywhere from 18-21 MPG pretty regularly. Though I have to say I have made some modifications. Not only is it a big vehical it drives like one. Parking is no problem. Im used to larger trucks. the only area I have a problem with is being able to see out the rear end. It has its challenges. Overall, best bang for the buck. Most versitle truck I have ever owned and Ive owned many.

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  Love My AvalancheZ71 - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By IrishC6996 - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful to look at. Fun to drive.

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  COMFORT - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By FREDDIE DELL - October 31 - 10:00 am

  It rides smooth like a Cadillac and has the power of Ford Mustang on the highway.

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  The 2500 is SOOO Much ~FASTER~ - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Loreen - October 30 - 2:00 am

  I could NOT tell you how much I LOVE my truck! I tryed the smaller Avalanche 1500 first and really like it, but the 2500 just blew me away!! I could not sign the papers fast enough to get this baby in the garage. I cant imagine driving anything else. By far the coolest truck on the road. ( as far as Im concerned) It Rocks~