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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  wow - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By cokebuggy - July 22 - 2:00 am

  I love it

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  A Good Vehicle at a GREAT PRICE! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By JJ JOIHNNY J - July 18 - 2:00 am

  FUN TO DRIVE. GREATY TO LOOK AT. VERY VERSATILE AND EASY TO HANDLE FOR A BIIIIG VEHICLE!

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  I love my truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Unicorn - July 18 - 2:00 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned, it is great for comuting 100 miles a day to work & the kids love it too

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  3 Engines and stiil rolling - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Pat Jenkins - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Vehicles first engine began to smoke heavily during start up the first week we owned it. GM said it was defective PCV. After that didnt fix it, they finally replaced the motor. The dealers quality on this engine swap was terrible. My test drive off the dealer repai lot revealed a heavy knocking sound from the passenger side of new engine. GM had to replace engine again and have aera rep supervise the installation. I doubt that Toyota or Honda would have had to replace the motor twice!

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  dog cab - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By elmo daddy - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I love this truck. I really enjoy its versatility and its comfort. It is perfect for hauling my 2 dogs (both over 100lbs). We open up the back end and fold the seats down and away we go. It is also perfect for hauling friends around for a night on the town.

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  Chevys Better Idea - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BlackAV - June 29 - 2:00 am

  GM/Chevrolet produced a nice "two in one" vehicle with the Avalanche/Esclade EXT (although the AV is probably the better bang for the buck). Smooth ride and drives smaller than it looks. Steering is a bit loose, but doesnt pitch badly on turns. Brake pedal is spongy, but still stops well. People who complain about the mileage should buy a smaller 6 cylinder vehicle. Toyota Tundra doesnt do much better with less room. Acceleration is decent, but not overpowering. Ive changed the exhaust to duals and it helps. Easy to change. Fun to drive and gets a lot of looks.

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  2004 Avalanche Z71 - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By rmnord - June 5 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased it and took on trip of 2000 mi. Loved the comfort, handling and looks. I have owned pickups, Cadillacs and other GM autos and this is by far the best vechicle I have owned. It has as smooth and quiet ride as any vehicle I have owned. This is the first 4WD I have owned, yet the ride is unbelievable.

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  They are finally getting it right - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By DWF - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Z 66 for 9 months and almost 16000 miles and it is superb. Only one small problem with a rear end bearing, otherwise flawless. XM is great. Ride is super. Towing is very good. Utiliy and versatility are 11 on a 1 to 10 scale. I just cannot say enough good things about it.

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  owner Avalanch Z71 2003 - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Kim G. - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This is the best vehical for my needs , for a do it yourselfer and having a comfortable ride for my familey not like a truck

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  My New Toy - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By glec - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This is the ultimate toy. Able to go from a cool looking SUV to a working truck in less than a minute. So easy that one person can do it. Looks like a radical truck but rides like an expensive car.