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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  Cool new toy - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By wgarv - October 28 - 10:00 am

  No major problems with this new ride. Fuel economy shpuldnt even be a catagory for any truck this size. If your buying one of these because they are fuel efficeint. It gets better gas mileage than my old 98 2dr Tahoe did. Chevy did this one right in my book.

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  Happy - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Mike/Lisa - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I finaly found a vehicle that fits all my wants and needs.We use it as a truck a car,a rec vehicle,that fits my family

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  Love my new 07 Av - 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Zooks - October 23 - 9:06 pm

  Hadnt even planned to look at Chevy in my quest for a new SUV. Drove by a dealer and figured "what the heck Ill take a quick look". Drove out in a new 2007 Avalanche :-)! Packed with options inside, love the 20" factory rims and new body style outside. Very quiet and smooth ride. Great towing capacity!

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  Make the midgate an option! - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By ca - October 22 - 10:00 am

  Good ride if you like the suburban. The truck begs to be moded so get ready to spend some money. MPG is fair about 16 for real. Bed area is not water tight and never will be. Area around the wheel wells need protection and better chip resistent paint is needed on the hood. GM could do a lot better job with customer satisfaction. This truck is going to be one of those trucks that ten years down the road needs floor boards that have rusted out form leaking midgate. If you plan on keeping this truck for ever keep it as dry as possible.

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  Supercrew no more - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By sc_guinness - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Was going to buy the Ford Supercrew but test drove the Avalanche once adn fell in love with it. The key was the WBH package. Very smooth ride with the Z66 package.

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  Just plain awesome - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By RandyMoodispaugh - October 5 - 10:00 am

  The overall vehicle is just plain awesome. With the rear locking differential I have had no problems during even the heaviest snow storms.

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  Best Truck on The Market - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Francisco Aparicio - September 16 - 2:00 am

  It is the best truck

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  excellent truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Kat53 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I love it and I would buy another one. I drove it from California to North Carolina and felt so comfortable. The heated seats were great! I love the satalite radio and having Onstar made me feel very safe.

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  Love it - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By srvblues - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I have the truck without the BSM and I luv it!!

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  Like a Rock - 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By woltech - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my 2002 Avlanche Z71 for 2 months. Its smoother and produces less noise on the highway than my girlfriends Acura MDX. Thats very impressive considering the Avalanche Z71 comes with 17" GoodYear Wrangler tires. I really enjoy visiting my parents on their farm so I can do a some off roading. This truck can go almost anywhere.