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:

• 

  Won me over - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By peter - October 28 - 12:10 am

  Should have bought a 4dr truck but the ride and handling was what won me over. Acceleration is awesome. Sheet metal fit is excellent but the paint has some dirt and craters. The Active Fuel Management system is a joke, 15 to 17 MPG on highway but will get 20 driving in the 45 MPH range.

• 

  I LOVE this truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Johnny Bradabadowski - October 27 - 6:46 am

  A couple of years ago I went shopping for a used truck. I wasnt really in the market for an Avalanche. While I was at a Chevrolet dealer in the Atlanta, GA area test driving a Silverado, the salesperson suggested that I test drive a one owner Avalanche Z66 without the cladding. Out of curiosity I took her for a spin and OMG!!, am I ever glad I did. When I got back to the dealer I bought it immediately. I never really thought I would like an Avalanche until I owned one. I love everything about this truck and the previous owner took excellent care of it. It still looks new. Almost everywhere I go I get compliments on it. Just last night when I arrived at a restaurant someone in the parking lot approached me to try to buy it. This truck has the best ride, drives better, and is more comfortable than anything Ive ever owned, including my wifes 2008 Tahoe. In my opinion the interior is MUCH nicer in the 2006 and down Chevy trucks. I hate the interior in the 2007 and up trucks. I will never step up to a newer model truck until they change that UGLY cheap looking hard plastic interior and low grade leather in the newer models no matter how good the exterior is. Anyway, I love the way the Avalanche drives, the power of the 5.3, the ride, convenience, comfort, roomy, locking side tool boxes that double as a cooler, locking tailgate and I mean you name it and I like it. Too bad they stopped building them! If you can find a good used 2006 and down, I would highly recommended it.

• 

  Great vehicle - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By pastordl - October 26 - 1:00 am

  Very good overall. I do have a clunking sound in the front that the dealer has yet to find.

• 

  Love My Avalanche - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Boate8 - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I have the 2002 Pewter Z-66, 5.3 engine. I jsut came back from a drive from New Mexico to Florida, the round trip logged nearly 4000 miles. It was the most enjoyable long drive I have had in years. My wife and I were able to knock down 1100 miles the first day. The roomy interior allowed for one us sleep comfortably while the other drove. Gas milage avgerage was 17.6 we stayed withing 5mph of the speed limit. We also had very strong cross/head winds. The Avalanche was very stable and comfortable in those conditions. Ray

• 

  Luv It! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Joe Clark - October 23 - 2:00 am

  I like my Avalanche more now than when I bought it. The only thing that would be a nice addition would be backup sensors, since it is difficult to see out the rear window and you must almost totally depend on your side mirror. It is ok, but takes some getting use to. Otherwise I love it!

• 

  Im in Love - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By j prater - October 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Avalanche. I bought and 02 with a cloth interior--it didnt do well with my Jack Russell Terrier who sheds madly. After he made a trip thru it, it took 3 hours to get the hair out of the fabric. I traded it 8 months later with 14K miles on it. Never a minutes trouble--we loved it enough to do it again.

• 

  avalanche - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By ccwaverider - October 15 - 2:00 am

  Drives like a mussle car. Love it.

• 

  911!!! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Redhot Avalanche - October 15 - 2:00 am

  This truck was great until 18 days after I bought it. I heard the horn and went out to find the interior in flames!.. The fire bureau said it was a short in the dash and 17 days later , I still am waiting for GM, Chevrolet or my dealer to give me any word on what they are going to do for me. They have been absolutely no help at all!!

• 

  its a great truck - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jjjjjj - October 13 - 2:00 am

  I would recommend this vehicle to any consumer who wants to buy a safe, reliable,and very stylish truck with lots of power for on road driving and off roading.

• 

  Avalanche - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DNGorham - October 10 - 6:33 am

  Most comfortable and easiest to handle. Steering wheel has to be easiest Ive ever been behind as far as handling. Ride is like a dream and Id recomened this Avalanche to anyone that wants to keep their truck and be happy.