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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WOOHOO ! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Graham - June 11 - 2:00 amI was surprised to say the least I went from a BMW 325i to this monster and Im loving every minute of it ! Yes the MPGs are horrible ... but overall driving and feeling like you own the road and safety make this a truck/car/whatever Im keeping for years to come. I just wish Chevy had put a diesel in there !
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Great Truck! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Dave123 - May 22 - 2:00 amIt is a monster... Just what I wanted... The flexibility with the ride and comfort... Lots of fun...
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great ride - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By krob - May 18 - 2:00 amSo far the vehicle has operated flawlessly. The ride is smooth. The handling is great, and the power is awesome. The fuel economy is not wonderful, but the smooth ride was a pleasant surprise.
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Fun even when not in the sun! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By mysticalmike1053 - May 18 - 2:00 amThe Avalanche is the best truck that i have ever owned. This truck can haul butt down the road and the sound of the engine roaring is one of the best sounding chevrolet egines ive ever heard. the ride is great. you never get boreed of the XM radio. this truck does 80 mph at only 2000 rpms. my suburban did those rpms at 50.
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Great Riding Truck, Bed/Midgate H2o trap - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Gonzo66 - May 4 - 2:00 amInovative truck with a smooth stable ride. This truck has a very comfortable ride, that is very well suited for towing (Z66 package).The DIC panel gives very useful info and warning data, Ie... % oil life, transmission oil temp info, low oil level..great for those who tow and self maintain )Not crazy about the plastic trim but I guess it will grow on me. The rubber seals around the bed cover and the mid- gate are not water tight and will leak more with age. The
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CHANGING CAB - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By ACE IS #1 - April 11 - 2:00 amI LOVE HOW EASY AND SIMPLE IT IS TO QUICKLYCONVERT TO A PICKUP BED,I TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS FEATURE ALL THE TIME! YET, WHEN WE GO OUT WITH ANOTHER COUPLE, I KNOW THEY ARE NOT CRAMPED IN THE BACK, THE SEATING IS AMPLE AND COMFORTABLE.
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Good - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
By Rick C - April 6 - 2:00 amHas nice comfortable seats and alot of room in the cab. Powerful engine.
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I LOVE MY AVALANCHE - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
By ROSARIO - March 21 - 10:00 amI LIVE OUT IN THE COUNTRY ON DIRT ROAD, AND FULL OF POT HOLES, MY AVALANCHE GIVES ME A GREAT RIDE.JUST LIKE A LIMO, AND ITS GREAT ON SNOW..
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The "BIG" Dog - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
By blainejrjeni - March 21 - 10:00 amThis Truck has to be THEE........Best truck we ever owned!!! We have leased alot of cars and trucks but decided to Buy this, and what a GREAT choice, this truck is a reall LOOKER!!! All heads turn when we are driving the "BIG" Dog.She is Great on gas drives like a dream, but is a truck, no complaints on this Beauty!!!
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Two Vehicles in One - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
By mvaillan - March 17 - 2:00 amI needed a vehicle that I could use for hauling Home Depot supplies, fire wood, wood chips, dirt and all the other basic home owner truck type activities. I also needed a vehicle to take on family trips, hauling luggage and camping gear. I have 2 growing boys (11&12 yrs old) that have been complaining about being cramped in the back of the my extended cab Dodge Dakota for a couple of years now. The Avalanche is solving all of my needs - itll haul pretty much anything I need and is a nice big highway cruiser for our many family annual trips - my boys love all of the room in the back seat now! A pickup truck and a SUV all in one vehicle!
