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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Best truck Ive had - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Adolfo - July 25 - 2:00 amIve had trucks before, but the Avalanche jus tops them all. It has a lot of room for the people in the front and even in the back, and I just love the confort of the ride. Is smooth, it seems like if im driving a Cadilac.
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An Attention Getter! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Magic27037 - July 24 - 10:00 amI love the vesatility, except it takes two people to remove the panels, at least for a woman.Perhaps a man could do it by himself. The truck is really fun to drive, and has a lot of power.
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Why an Avalache? - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Pete Smith - July 24 - 10:00 amToo new to review except that the selling points to me were the combo of an SUV, which I was coming out of, to the usefulness of a truck which I need in my shipping business.
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Avalanche,a good choise. - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Loren Guinn - July 23 - 2:00 amSiyle, comfort, useability, size and all around good looks. I chose not to include the add-on plastic, it looks tackey and has no use. I have been delighted with the ride and power. I purchased the 66 towing package and the best seats. I am one happy camper.
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Love It! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Sunlinerdude - July 23 - 2:00 amI have always been a truck consumer. I had overlooked the Avelanche in the past thinking it was a gimick vehicle. After driving it and really looking at all it has to offer, I am hoping that in three years when I need to replace this vehicle there will still be another one available. I love this truck and all of its features.
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Do It All Vehicle - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By btec75 - July 23 - 2:00 amGutsy SUV combo, many uses. Will fit in most gargages at home. Solves trade off of long length with midgate.Owned my 03 Z71 Avalanche since December 2002, equiping with Convenience and Personal Security Packages, Sunroof, Leather and HD Tow Pkg. Best vehicle Ive even owned in over 30 years of driving. Solid and rugged. Chevy did something unique with the Avalanche. If youre not accustom to larger SUVs or pickups this may not be the vehicle for you. However, if you want something tough but comfortable and can climb into the vehicle, you found it. "Like A Rock" -- I love my Avalance.
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Not bad - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By gwstevenson - July 23 - 2:00 amNot a bad truck. I had a K1500, and this is nicer than that truck, but still isnt as good as I could (should) be, especially considering the price. Workmanship/quality isnt nearly as good as it should be. I have upholstery coming unstitched, rattles and vibrations that cant be diagnosed, etc. Overall it isnt too bad though.
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AWSOME TRUCK - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By BLUE AV - July 22 - 2:00 amAWSOME TRUCK, RIDES LIKE A 4 WHEEL DRIVE CADILACK. I HAD IT FOR 8 MONTHS AND NO PROBLEMS. THE ONLY DOWN SIDE IS THE GAS MILAGE, 14 CITY AND 16 HIGHWAY BUT I DID NOT BUY IT FOR THE MILAGE.
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Excellent Choice - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By JGMalisky - July 21 - 2:00 amThis is the best all around vehicle I have ever owned. I have had regular cabs, extended cabs, blazers and Mercedes Benz cars. By far this is the best vehicle I have ever owned. You can take it hunting, fishing, camping and then the the public theater.
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Great White - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By gasserl - July 20 - 2:00 amThe Avalanche has performed as advertised for us. We use it for our vacations hauling or travel trailer all over the state. The Avalance has handled our needs more than any other car or truck we have owned to date.
