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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  Perfect vehicle for my use - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By k2b2 - March 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 2002 Chevy 1500HD Crew Cab first. It was too long and drove too rough. Traded for the 2002 Avalanche and glad I did. Its got a smooth, comfortable ride and is fun to drive. I think my wife likes it better than her 2001 Tahoe. Due to its versatility, its just about the perfect vehicle for my use.

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  2007 Chevy Avalanche is a Winner - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By dogmike - February 7 - 5:43 pm

  I traded in a 1999 Chevy Silverado and I am very happy with the Avalanche. Chevy has definitely began to compete in the truck arena with quality vehicles, it was almost too late, but sure glad they did it for the 2007 model year, because I was leaning toward the Honda Ridgeline. I was turned off with the 2006 models. Chevys quality, yes quality material and updated interior and exterior designs sold me. Take one for a test drive see for yourself.

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  Greatest truck ever but ! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DR Fleming - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Acually purchased July5,2001. I love this truck and am fixing to buy another one. Only one major problem. I use truck off road a lot where there are no roads. When I first got I had trouble with the plastic coating on the front bumper. Ever time I touched something or pushed over a small bush or tree the bumper split . Chevolet would not repair or give me a solution to the )I immediately designed a 2-inch tube for a "bush pusher" to be mounted in front of this plastic bumper. It cost me about $5.00 for material, 15 minutes labor and my company epoxy power coated it.

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  New Owner - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Larry S. Hawkins - December 23 - 2:00 am

  The secound chevy buy in 31 years. Went to buy the F150 ford and test drove the Avalanche and fell in love. this 2003 is the best pickup in its class.

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  Very nice truck! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By TruckinLady - December 23 - 2:00 am

  The avalanch is a very versitle and enjoyable truck. For me as a homeowner and family person its perfect for hauling, truckin my stuff around or my kids. VERY smooth ride, easy to drive, and easy to modify from truck to SUV. Interior is nice, but not lexus style... so a few knocks there. But durable. Also, fuel economy isnt great but what did you expect?

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  Wipe em with fascination! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By D. Arceo - December 6 - 10:00 am

  Fascinating ride everytime, not because of the smooth suspension, or the car- like maneurability, but the envious stares of those I passed by. I got muscle all through me, even though mine is colored yellow! Go Avalanche! Wipe em up!

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  Excellent Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By IDA MAN - November 30 - 2:00 am

  I didnt find a nicer vehicle with the exception of the Cadillac EXT.

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  2002 AVALANCHE - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By JOHNRONN - November 9 - 12:00 am

  We switched from toyota 4-runners and bought an Avalanche as opposed to a toyota sequoia. We have had the vehicle for 6 months and it has been flawless so far. My only complaints about the design are that the storage compartments in the fenders are not dustproof and the space over the wheel wells on the fenders are not protected from other people opening the car doors and smashing them into the side of the Avalanches fender.

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  Best of all - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Nemecek - November 4 - 10:00 am

  very nice ride on road and off road, quiet inside, all instruments and controls easy to read and driver fiendly, sweet stereo system (bose)

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  My truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Bill G. - October 30 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this truck since early April of 2003 and Ive never seen so many grinning faces. My truck is an Arrival Blue and it looks great! Cound not get the price I wanted to find it here (Long Island, NY) but the prices are almost non-negotiable, so I bought it on line. I had to fly (45 minutes) to save $4000. Ive taken it a few places and didnt have any problems with it. One thing though, The steering is very "vauge".