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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2002 Avalanche 4 WD/1500 - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Mcc - February 22 - 2:00 amGreat Truck!!--Best vehicle in winter weather--great traction, no slipping and sliding! --Nicest vehicle Ive ever had!My husband wants one, too!!
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Hit me like a land slide! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By LandSlide - February 21 - 2:00 amPurchased to support Cave Diving hobby. Both my wife and I were put off at first by looks, but the functionality is awesome. Industructable, go anywhere, pull anything. Pulled our 24 boat like it wasnt there. Damm fine truck.
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The Avalanche Experience - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By KG Rollins - February 17 - 2:00 amOne Awesome Vehicle. A definite "Buy and Hold".
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sweeeeeeeet - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By bshef - February 12 - 2:00 amlove our av. excellent ride and stunning looks. oh, by the way, this truck was built with "practicality" in mind.
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07 LTZ - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
By mlbender - February 8 - 4:43 pmWe just picked up our 07 LTZ. So far its been absolutely wonderful. Weve got every option but the Nav/rear cam. Previously had a 00 Yukon, and the new platform is by far superior. Love the new interior, very high quality materials, no "cheap plastic" look that was common with GM for so long. Weve been running only E85 because its almost $0.60 cheaper here (South Dakota) than regular unleaded. Were getting about 11mpg in town and 15 or so on the highway. That compares to about 14/18 with the Yukon on 10% Ethanol. Im going to run a tank of 10% Ethanol next time to get an idea of how well the Active Fuel Management does. So far, cant tell when its in V4 vs. V8. Been great!!
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Avalanche satisfaction - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Kagey - February 5 - 2:00 amExtremely pleased with this Vehicle! Parks Chevrolet was/is excellent in both buying and service issues. No problems or concerns with this excellent product!
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AV - Good or bad - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By MeCanada - February 3 - 2:00 amToo much windshield. Broke one allready. Gas mileage not great. Fun to drive. Lots of power. Make a diesel, soon???? Too much room for mud to hide in the wheel wells. Big grill to catch hoppers No slide decking on box is a pain some times
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GOOD - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By DANNY MEYERS - January 31 - 10:00 amA VERY NICE TRUCK
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Go Buy it. - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Darth - January 31 - 10:00 amI have over 40,000 miles on my 4WD Avalanch and never had problem. They did this model right. I change the oil and filter every 3000 miles and rotate the tires every 14000, Still have orginal tires in good shape. I get 17.5 miles per gal on the highway, which is not bad for the size of the truck. The ride is great and it is fun to drive. I also love the conversion to carry extra long lumber. I would by another one if I could afford it.
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Tail gate - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Rick Taetsch - January 30 - 2:00 amTail gate on the box, is very hard to keep closed when driving down rode, slamming, works sometime, most of time falls open, 1st few times scares the heck out of you.
