Overview & Reviews

Midsize SUVs are some of the best-selling vehicles on the market, as families and singles alike seek out their just-right compromise of space and maneuverability. The GMC Envoy had been among the eligible candidates in this segment since 1998. It was completely redesigned for 2002, and the result was additional size, power and refinement, though the Envoy was still thoroughly eclipsed by its rivals. Its last year of production was 2009.

A platform twin to the Chevy TrailBlazer (as well as Buick, Oldsmobile and Saab models), GMC's Envoy was a traditional body-on-frame SUV offered in two-wheel-drive (2WD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations. Apart from styling, there were subtle differences between it and the Chevy, however. For example, the Envoy offered an optional rear air suspension (which provided a more isolating ride and balanced out heavy loads), which the TrailBlazer didn't. Engine choices included an inline-6 (with 270-291 horsepower, depending on the year) and on some models, a 5.3-liter V8 (with 300-302 hp, depending on the year).

Among traditional midsize SUVs, the GMC Envoy got lost in the pack. It had all the right features to compete in this segment, as well as a comfortable ride and decent power. But it was sullied by sloppy handing and below-average interior build and materials quality. Furthermore, although the Envoy's safety features looked up to date on paper, the SUV actually performed poorly in crash tests. For some used car shoppers, the Envoy may still be an appealing choice, but most would be better served by its more refined rivals.

Most Recent GMC Envoy Models
The second-generation Envoy debuted for 2002 and didn't change much throughout its 8-year model run. Initially, it was offered only with the 270-hp (increased to 275 hp for '03) inline-6 engine in two body styles: regular five-passenger and extended-wheelbase Envoy XL, which provided seven-passenger seating and considerably more cargo capacity. A 5.3-liter, 300-hp V8 became available on the Envoy XL in 2003 and on the regular Envoy (as part of the Denali trim) for '05. That year also saw head curtain airbags replace the front side bags. A more powerful (291-hp) inline-6 came for '06, as did newly standard stability control and cruise control. The Envoy XL was discontinued for 2007 and the Envoy itself was gone after '09.

The most common trim levels were the base SLE and leather-lined SLT; however, in '05 the ultra-plush Denali trim debuted, bringing standard V8 power, a unique grille treatment, more sound insulation and heated seats.

An unusual model called the GMC Envoy XUV was offered in 2004 and '05. The XUV was an Envoy XL stripped of its third-row seat and fitted with a retractable roof over its cargo bay. The result was a vehicle that could function as both a true SUV and a pickup. In practice, though, the multitalented but odd-looking Envoy XUV proved to be a tough sell to consumers.

The first-generation GMC Envoy was sold from 1998-2000 (there was no '01 model). It was little more than an upscale version of the midsize GMC Jimmy, which debuted in '95, and was equipped much like today's Denali. The extra amount of features didn't mask its aged chassis and old-tech V6, however, and the two together delivered a mushy ride quality and lackluster acceleration at highway speeds. Other complaints included numb steering, a large turning radius and poor brake feel. Although these early Envoys are inexpensive to buy on the used market, subpar reliability keeps us from recommending them, even to buyers interested in an old-school, truck-based SUV.

User Reviews:

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By tall one - January 1 - 12:34 pm

  This is a well designed SUV. I am 65" and fit in it with no problems - one of the few trucks that I can. There are a few recalls out on it - get those taken care of - and you have great vehicle. More then enough power to get you down the road. Plenty of useful options too.

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  Job well done - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By mark - December 18 - 7:57 pm

  I came out of a 99 Mountaineer AWD 8 cyl which I loved. I was not thrilled with the changes Ford made. I find the Envoy more sturdy and has more creature comforts.

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  Build Quality - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By MPG - October 19 - 8:24 pm

  I purchased the Envoy XL (SLT V8) in March 05 and have covered 2800 mi mostly around town. We recently had twins, and now with 4 kids total needed an SUV. I like the quite ride, and have upgraded the rear sway bar for better handling (highly recommended). The V8 has good power and sounds good too, but idles a little rough compared to others. My main concern is with the build quality of the vehicle. The paint job is very poor(Carbon gray) and also I have a warped/distorted windshield. The A/C performance in hot/humid weather is useless below 1500-2000 RPM. MPG is 11-12 around town! These issues will be brought up at the first service. Check out trailvoy.com if you have an Envoy/Trailblazer.

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  GMC Envoy SLT - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Anonymous - September 17 - 2:04 pm

  The Envoy is really a great SUV, but there are areas where it could improve. The engine is strong, the styling bold, and fuel enconomy bad (as with any SUV).

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  Could be better - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By moondawg - September 9 - 1:29 am

  The drive is fair. I love the power of the 4.2 AWD. Brakes are mushy, drinks a lot of gas. The ride is so so. I had a Buick Rendezvous with a much better ride

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  New Owner - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By JIMMY - September 7 - 1:04 pm

  Fun to drive in the short period Ive had it. Easy to park, good vision. I wish the seat would fold flat.

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  2002 GMC Envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By cyberjax21 - August 20 - 11:59 am

  Ive truly enjoyed my Envoy. Its true as they say "Its not more than you need, just more than your used to". For the first few months I didnt even realize it had a built in air compressor with hose. The comfort factor is amazing, it rides just like a car thanks to the air ride suspension. The power is great! Ive had just 2 problems with the vehicle. The 4 wheel drive kept automatically shifting itself into geer. We went through 3 tries at the dealership until it was fixed. The 2nd problem was that the air compressor went out on my first use. Since its been replaced neither problems have reoccured.

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  Envoy SLE 2003 - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By SteveTx2554 - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Very good ride quality and handling and good gas mileage. Averaged between 23- 24 mpg highway.

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  Envoy Nightmare - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By K Cooper - August 8 - 8:54 pm

  I have had my Envoy since Oct. of 2002 and now have just under 50,000 miles on it. I love the way it looks, rides and performs, however I have had way too many problems to list. Engine failure at 5,500 miles, transmission at 48K along with the rear differential. GM has covered most of the repair costs but the down time and reliability isnt good. Hopefully they have worked out the bugs for the 05s and 06s.

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  Great SUV! - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By dwhiteley - July 19 - 2:00 am

  Great ride and options!