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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  I am sold - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By JimboH55 - April 22 - 10:00 am

  I have been a suburban buyer for years. I went to the dealership that I always deal with. Drove the new suburban and was ready to purchase. For the heck of it my bud who I deal with all the time ask me to test drive the Avalanche. I was sold once I got into it. Had all the comfort, power, and drove better than the burb. The next day I returned to purchased the Avalanche after driving them both again. Trust me the looks will grow on you.We have had some very strong storms this spring in MO no leaks. If your a burb user like I was. You use the back half more to haul cargo than passengers. Need to look at the Avalanche.

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  I LOVE MY TRUCK! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BIRDBRAIN - April 19 - 10:00 am

  BY FAR THE BEST AND MOST FUN VEHICLE I HAVE OWNED. I WOULD NOT GIVE IT UP FOR ANYTHING.

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  Change for a Dollar - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By healdj - April 17 - 10:00 am

  As I was getting out my Avalanche I herd "Hey, is that one of them there change for a dollar trucks?" "Yep," I said. And then it was off on my normal show a tell for the mid-gate for the Avalanche. This truck gets attention, where ever it goes. Rather its with the mid-gate down and hauling a load of junk to the dump or mid-gate up and rear window in place, hauling the boat to take the family fishing; everyone wants a look at the Avalanche. And I swear, the more attention it gets, the better it runs. Work or play, the Avalanche does it equally well and with style.

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  Avalanche 1500 2WD is truck luxury! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By lizzieann - March 26 - 7:33 am

  Finally, automakers took heed to consumers. No more borrowing hubbys F150. Went from a Celica to the Avi & eased my road rage. 13K miles & were still happy. A few quirks that need to mentioned. Midgate gasket can leak if not installed correctly. Leaking only visible when back seats down, check for deformities. (Not covered by warranty, but dealer should work with you soon after purchase.) Side exterior body moulding held on by expanded, plastic clips & adhesive. Watch for loosening (Body moulding only covered 12K miles). Unreliable tailgate latch. Gate falls while driving after locking & pulling the handle. Even with the quirks, probably the best vehicle I have driven & owned.

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  I Love this Truck! - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By MLS - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I just bought this "truck" and I absolutely love it. I had a Tahoe before, which was a great truck, and the Avalanche has the sturdiness and reliability, and then some. It looks great, drives great, and lets be honest, it looks cool and turns heads.

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  2004 Owner - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Steve O - March 7 - 2:00 am

  The gas milage is terrible. I love my truck and didnt want to but anyhting else but the gas makes me not want to take it on tripts. Make more wiht out that ugly cladding. It looks a lot better without that junk on the side.

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  The perfect truck thats a luxury SUV - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Toddg - February 26 - 2:00 am

  The wife wanted luxury and I wanted a truck. We got the perfect compromise! The Z66 drives like a Cadillac!

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  GM Did it Right - 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jblasterii - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Having three active boys, the Avalanche has been the perfect vehicle for our life style. Whether we are going to one of the boys baseball games, out of town, a trip to Home Depot or the loading up on groceries, the Avalanche has been great. With all of the little extra touches and features it has to offer, its obvious that a lot of effort and thought went into designing the Avalanche.

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  If you can afford it BUY IT!!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By hoss67 - February 4 - 10:00 am

  This is the second truck I have owned new and it is more than any other truck on the market. They are not kidding when they say it isnt an SUV but a UUV. It has the ability to do what ever I need it to from hauling my camper or 4 wheeler to hauling an entertainment in a monsoon and keep it dry all the way to the door. As far as summer fun it is great drop out the back window roll down the windows and run the dunes and hills. BEST TRUCK EVER.

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  great - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By parma jeorge - January 29 - 2:00 am

  the vehicle is wonderfull i rate it a 10