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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  grows on you - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By luvtheav - May 6 - 10:00 am

  4000 miles driven so no long term reliability comments. Impresive ride considering the size. Some may complain of numb steering but I find it just fine. I suggest the 4.10 rear ratio for more spirited local driving.

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  One Great Truck - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BBlueAV - April 17 - 10:00 am

  We needed a truck and a sedan. Looked at extended cab pickups; however, there was not enough room. Looked at some club cab pickups....they were ok. Then, the Avalanche. What a wonderful concept. The wife was not crazy about the cladded version; however, one look at the WBH (without body hardware) and we were hooked. Drives great, Smooth. Quiet. Nice full-time 4wd system. And, when you need the room, just take out the window, put the mid-gate down, and your off. Best vehicle Ive ever owned!

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  ALL WORLDS OF VERSATILITY - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By BARE - April 5 - 10:00 am

  GREAT LOOKING GREAT HANDLING GREAT VERSATILITY !!!!!!!!

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  Best Truck - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Zovok121 - April 5 - 10:00 am

  It does absolutely everything I need and more, a perfect cross between SUV and Truck.

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  This one is my Second - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Spoc166 - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I bought my first one in June of 2002, I lived it so much that I traded it for a 2004 which I ordered from the manufacturer. There were some options in 2002 that I wanted that were not offered (ie: dual zone heating 6cd in dash changer and steering wheel controls) These are now being offered and have been since 2003 this fact and the great new color sport met. red mask my new Avalanche the best vehicle I have ever owned.

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  satisfied customer - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By Danno - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I have a 7 yr, 5 yr, 7 month year old and my wife has a baby on the way. I had some GM card rebate so I looked at every GM car that sat 6+ passengers. I have always had trucks so wanted a bed if possible. I didnt even look at the Avalanche at first because I always thought it was ugly and didnt even consider it. I looked at TrailBlazer, 4 door Silverado, Venture, and Tahoe. Luckily my rep convinced me to look at it....loved it and never looked back. For you parents out there.....what sealed the deal was the airbag sensor in the front seats - 4 door trucks like Silverado dont have it - so its safe for kids in the front seat of the Avalanche.

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  general motors has sold us out - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By jonboy - February 9 - 2:00 am

  would not buy another one, fit is terrible, rattles, paint has blemishes, vehicle wanders all over road, transmission clunks, and the mileage is not what the manufacture says it is. The worst design i could have purchased. Neat concept but the bed leaks and the plastic is fading. Ok mr.goodwrench whats next.

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  Avid AV Owner - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By tims garage - February 4 - 10:00 am

  After leasing a 1999 Chevy Tahoe I was pleasntly surprised to find out I didnt have to give up any comfort or performance when I moved UP to a Avalanche. Now I can Hall some dirty stuff if I need to without ruining my interrior.

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  big toy - 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By kenw - February 4 - 10:00 am

  drove to New Hampshire on first outing, and was amazed at the handling on the highway and back roads,

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  style and practical - 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
  By denz66trk - January 26 - 2:00 am

  I love the truck. It looks great in black. You will stand out in a crowd. It rides like a dream. And this is coming from a Navigator owner. All the bells and whistles of the Navi but with better road handling. I If you like trucks there is no better full size truck on the road for the money.