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 truck - 2005 GMC Envoy
By Elijah Marks - April 26 - 8:11 pmThis is a solid truck. The power is awesome. It is comfortable on long trips and has a good amount of room. It is fun to drive and handles well and has excellent brakes.
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Tried the rest bought the best - 2007 GMC Envoy
By rjgnwdc - April 25 - 8:27 amI bought it 03/23 I have about 2050 miles and they are excellent miles. This is a road machine, you set up in a commanding position, ride comfort and handling prowess are all superior, It has a very confident and agile feel to it while rolling down the highway, has 18 wheels and responses very well to rapid moves. The inline 6 cy 4.2 liter w\291hp is extremely responsive when you need it. The Envoy is a very quiet ride, wind and road noise are minimal.
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I love my Envoy! - 2003 GMC Envoy
By E Norwood - April 18 - 12:57 pmI am not the best at maintenance of my vehicle. I first changed my oil around 25,000 miles. I currently have 72,000 miles on my truck and just replaced the factory tires! My Envoy is very low maintenance and the factory paint job looks beautiful after just a regular, no-frills car wash. I really enjoy driving it and have taken several cross-country trips. People that ride with me are surprised at how smoothly I am able to wheel into tight parking spaces without having to go through the pull in, back up, pull back in, etc. I highly recommend the Envoy as a fun, practical vehicle that lets you sit up higher like a truck but still drives like a car!
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Buy this SUV!!! - 2004 GMC Envoy
By lec - April 16 - 10:00 amI just cant tell you how in love with the Envoy I am!!! We were looking for several months for an SUV. We have a 4 1/2 month old and we were so concerned about safety for him and comfort for us and the Envoy was the right choice for us. We looked at many different SUVs...All american I must say..Jeep, TrailBlazer, Grand Cherokee, etc... By far the GMC Envoy had the most complete safety package for the money and OH MY....just try to compare the interior to anything else!!! (leather) I love this SUV!! I hope that this review is helpful in your decision.
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Roadmaster Delux - 2007 GMC Envoy
By JohnnyG - April 12 - 8:08 amI bought it 03/22 I have about 2200 miles and they are excellent miles. This is a road machine. You sit up in a commanding position. Ride comfort and handling prowess are superior. It has a very confident and agile feel to it while rolling down the highway. Has 18 wheels and responds very well to rapid moves. The inline 6 cy 4.2 liter with 291hp is extremely responsive when you need it. The Envoy is a very quiet comfortable ride. Wind and road noise are minimal. Gas mileage is not bad. This is an outstanding vehicle for the price.GMC has built a quality vehicle with quality parts. Fit and finish is second to none in its class
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Best value for your money - 2007 GMC Envoy
By RICK - April 6 - 4:05 pmI was very impressed with the comfort and performance of the 2007 Envoy, so I bought it. It drives very smooth and my kids enjoy the ride in the back seat. Even on railroad tracks or on pot holes, you almost do not feel the bumps. I am impressed with the fuel economy even though it has a lot of power. Excellent air conditioning for the hot summers. Great vehicle for the price, you wont get a better deal.
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HighlyRecommend Envoy - 2007 GMC Envoy
By Orange County Cali - April 5 - 2:37 pmI would highly recommend purchasing an Envoy Denali. I test drove a Toyota, Honda, and Nissan and were really dissapointed their quality of exterior styling, ride and handling, and est EPA. I love the 100,000 warranty, XM satellite radio and how quietly it drives with all that power!
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I Love My Truck! - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Nicelilfox - April 3 - 2:00 amI traded in a 2003 Durango less than a yr old. A gas hog and rode like a tank. I drove and researched SUVs for 3 months. Hands Down this truck takesem ALL :)Its gas mileage is 16-18 city/20- 24 hwy
and handles like a charm expecially in deep snow and mud. I havent had any problems and Im looking forward to future models. I can only imagine it gets better from what Ive read so far. YOU GO ENVOY!!! -
Recommend Envoy - 2007 GMC Envoy
By Shuttle Bus - March 30 - 8:15 amI would absolutely recommend an Envoy. The guy on the next review who cant figure out the NAV should take a second and read the owners manual. My 8 year old read the manual and figured out the NAV in 10 minutes. I have not had one problem with my Envoy. The quality is outstanding and it drives excellent. Compared to the Toyota, my Envoy is affordable, looks great, and I feel very safe driving it. GMC gives me a 100,000 mile warranty, and sends someone to fix my flat tire, for free! Now thats professional grade.
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Yeah, I found what I was looking for! - 2007 GMC Envoy
By Linda - March 1 - 6:13 pmCompared Rendezvous, Buicks new Acadia, and TrailBlazer. I was looking for smooth ride, and a vehicle that felt like if I step on the gas I wasnt taxing the vehicle. \As soon as I test drove this I said "this is it!" Traded a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder LE with 30000 miles, dont miss it at all! Tried some foreign models, never felt like I had a solid car. You must try this vehicle if you are looking for a SUV. Not too big, not too small. My husband liked it so much, he traded his 2006 Ford for a new GM Sierra. We will keep these for a long time. Both have the solid feel 40 somethings are looking for. Paid about the same as low and mid end foreign vehicles. Got better ride and quality.
