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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  Love It! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Cruisin - November 1 - 10:00 am

  My husband and I have had our Avalanche for 5 months and we love it. It handles great on the road, very smooth, has room for our children and we can still carry everything in back.

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  Comfort and Versatility - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By JohansenRJ - October 10 - 4:15 pm

  I was looking at 07 Silverado crewcabs. I did some research and realized that the new Silverado does not have 4 wheels disc brakes (the 00 did)a nd a long list of stuff that I wanted (XM, steering wheel mounted controls, 5.3V8, alloys, etc) were standard on the Avalanche, but optional on the regular pickups. Additionally, theres no provision on the regular pickup for securing the cargo bed. I bought the Avalanche LT1 with Bose and locking differential, all the stuff I wanted, without a bunch of stuff I couldnt care about. The styling is great and the ride is super comfy. Gas mileage is about what you would expect for a 5500 lb vehicle...about 14-15 in the city, 20- 21 on the road.

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  Avalanche - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By skiman1j - September 28 - 8:06 am

  chevy trucks are great - the dealers suck. I bought two trucks at the same time a Z71 silverado & a Z71 Avalanche. in addition I bought the 100,000 mile warrenty for the avalanch because it is FULLY loaded. My dealer will not cover anything tranny leaks, bad rattle sinse the day I bought it, front light fixture etc. Oh and be prepared to pay 300.00 for a set of brake pads (labor & services not included) Thats more then my Mercedees E320

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  Good truck but flawed - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By p driver - September 25 - 10:56 pm

  I find this truck to be reliable and fun to drive, but that changed when the transmission went out. Everyone one has no answer, and I hope that this is not the beginning of more problems.

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  Tows our 6,200 Lb Trailer Like a Champ - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Camper Man - August 30 - 10:54 pm

  We ordered our 2007 Avalanche specifically to tow our Outback travel trailer. We equipped it with the optional 6.0L engine, 4.10 rear end, transmission oil cooler, heavy-duty 4L70E transmision and rear-view camera -- in other words, set up to tow. The Avalanche takes to the hills with confidence! 95% of the time, we use it as a comfortable family hauler. The redesigned interior matches our previous Sequoia in comfort and thoughtfulness of design. The drivetrain is not as smooth or refined as the Toyotas, but GM is getting closer. I can feel the 6.0L "burble" at idle, while the Toyota 4.7L was virtually silent. This is my first-ever GM vehicle -- and so far I have been pleased.

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  2007 Avalanche - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Wayne - July 17 - 8:36 am

  I realize now that all of the reviews I read before purchasing are true. The new Avalanche rides like a luxury car but, it is a lumbering beast. You would never guess that it has 300HP, you really have to step on it to get it to go. Averaging 16 miles/gallon. If you are looking for pep or gas mileage, forget it. If you are looking for luxury and versatility, it is an awesome vehicle.

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  love it love it love it - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Robert H - July 4 - 2:00 am

  this truck has won MVP during our recent move. the versatility is great. just like the review says, amenities and feel of a suburban with the utility of the silverado. i can haul family around or lumber. the amenities are great, comes with dual- zone climate control, GREAT bose stereo with in-dash 6 disc changer. (stereo includes subwoofer). i dont know what people are talking about "cheap interior feel"... it feels luxurious to me. a hefty curb weight makes for sluggish performance though, and gas mileage is abysmal. the onboard computer is more amazing than in my previous BMW.

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  Too many rattles - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By joe f. harris - May 22 - 5:57 pm

  The vehicle has numerous areas of vibrations and rattles. The gauges are almost unreadable during daylight driving. I did not opt for back-up sensors or camera. These features should be made standard because of the poor rear vision. Gas consumption is about what was advertised. The seating is very comfortable. The lighting in the rear bed should be improved.

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  Oh Yeah!? - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By spencerzwife - May 16 - 2:00 am

  I love it!!

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  Great Truck - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Chris - May 3 - 9:14 pm

  This is my second Avalanche. My 04 Z-66 was fantastic and after looking at the others, I decided to go back to the dealer and purchase a tarted up 07 with sunroof. This is a great truck. Heated leather seats, Bose radio, 22" Wheels, improved steering and brakes. Whats not to like? It looks even better with the factory chrome wheels and running boards. I knew what to expect with the mileage. My family will love going on vacation in this awesome rig.