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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  Shouldnt have sold it. - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By bloggie - March 19 - 2:00 am

  purchanced a hummer, but would rather have keept the avalanche

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  Prepared To Be Stared At - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By CarDion - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We have only had our Avalanche a few days, but absolutely love it. Handles beautifully and gets lots of attention from passers-by. Highly recommend to everyone.

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  Sweet Bad Looking and Fun - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By HawksRN - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I love this truck. It is so much more than I expected. I spent the extra money to get all the extras, but it was worth it because ITS A KEEPER!

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  Fun Vehicle - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By mdgolf - March 13 - 2:00 am

  One great vehicle to drive....performs like a pickup but drives like a SUV....the best of both worlds

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  Very Useful - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BBL - March 12 - 10:00 am

  This is something that you can bet that others will copy. What a great ride and excellent traction off road and in snow. Pulling a mid-size car on a full trailer was no problem (60% of max) with this vehicle. Straight and true on the windy highway and through twisty back roads. This truck err uh... SUV was made to haul. No Problems in the first 16,000 miles, at all.

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  Better after the fact! - 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By G Marzett - March 7 - 12:25 am

  Dealer had to replace the engine at 50,000 miles,and replace the electronics in the dash at 30,000 miles. After those problems were fixed,my truck has been great!

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  This was built for me. - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By kmbdrb - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This is absolutely the best vehicle I have ever owned. I convert it to a PU at least 3-4 times per week. Smooth, powerful, versatle, quiet, tight, luxurious, it just could not be any better.

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  HotDamn - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By GRRRR - March 5 - 2:00 am

  I picked up my Avalanche about two weeks ago and I love it. My wife and kids also love it and want to use it as the family vehicle now. My wife threatened to take the Avalanche for herself and leave me with our 02 Ford Escape. For comfort, power, versitality and ride Id have to say that this is the best vehicle Ive ever driven. Also, this thing is as loaded as a Cadillac! This is the first vehicle that Ive ever owned that impressed me enough to want to get another one when this one is ready for pasture.

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  My Avalanche = my buddy - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Big-Daddy - February 28 - 2:00 am

  I drive this teuck 650 miles a week. It is my familys choice to ride in when we go out. I have used it to haul lumber, as trasnportation on a 5 adult trip, and as a commuter vehicle. The comfort and drivability are superb. I am amazed at how nice it rides, and yet is an exceptionally functional truck. It even fits in the garage.

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  Great Truck!!! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By RPH - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Have owned this truck since new. Put many mods on both exterior and drivetrain. Its a lot of fun and easy to work on. You need metric tools. It does everything they say it will and more!