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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  Sharp looking SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Kevin R. - June 3 - 10:01 pm

  At first I thought the vehicle was a nightmare due to 3 problems in the first week, 4wd selector switch, squeaking sound from the front hood latch, and the brakes were after market at 30,000 miles- Do yourself a favor and demand factory brake pads or you will sound like a bus when you stop. Other than the first week I have enjoyed my Envoy SLT 4WD. It is by far the nicest looking SUV on the road, and has the power of an 8 cyl. Looks like an Escalade on a diet.

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  Solid SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By kmbsuv - May 25 - 2:57 pm

  I have owned my 2004 GMC Envoy for a little over a year now and Im very pleased with it. The ride quality is great for long trips and I love the exterior styling. Its been fantastic for my many trips to Home Depot. The wide cargo opening is definitely a plus. The dual climate control is great because my wife is always cold and Im always warm. I have brought it back to the dealer a few times for a few problems that were fixed under warranty immediately. The gas mileage could be better, but I knew about that before I bought it. Since I dont drive too much, it hasnt been a problem even with the high gas prices.

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  This truck is solid as a rock. - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By David - April 28 - 12:32 am

  I purchased my Envoy for its good looks and power. I really enjoy blowing by the import trucks. The ride is awesome and its not that bad on gas.

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  Its a fine ride! - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By George Mulder - April 2 - 11:53 am

  Have had my Envoy for about 6 months now, and I really enjoy it! I love the new Steel Gray color. The leather seating is very comfortable, and with all the adjustments, I have a world of seating options. The heated seats are one of my favorite features. Everything works very well and makes sense. If I had to complain, it would be that there are too few special storage spots in the vehicle. But Im a bit of a carry it with me kinda guy, so I like to be able to have a couple extra small places for things like sunglasses, money, etc. But, that is not much of a complaint. So two enthusiastic thumbs up from me.

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  New Envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By JMITCH - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Plenty of fun power. Nearly 20K miles and no problems. A real winner

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  I Like it - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Seadog - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV, one of the best I have ever owned.

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  Bring on the foreign cars! - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By japanese4me - February 20 - 5:33 pm

  Owned this vehicle since it was new and have had many little problems with it. The A/C went out for a week, the brake rotors were changed twice (covered by warranty), rubber casings around windows began to wilt, and there were countless factory recalls. I just traded the vehicle in with 7,500 miles (2/2005) and was only able to get $13,000 for a $39,000 vehicle! According to KBB, the most I could have got would be $16,000. Very dissapointed. Stay away from this SUV unless you get it for a really good price and own a gas station.

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  My Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By James Britland - February 17 - 3:25 pm

  On February 10th, 2005 I forgot to remove a coffee mug from the rear bumper where I left it. Later, I drove 16 miles round trip to visit a relative in the hospital. A short time later my son walked in with the mug asking how long I was going to leave it on the bumper of my Envoy. That is a true test of a smooth ride and handling. I would add that there are a lot of potholes in New England in February.

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  Recommend the new GMC Envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By TomRector - February 15 - 2:00 am

  I previously had a 1996 Chevrolet Blazer and moving up to the new Envoy was a great choice for me. I considered the Dodge Durango and Land Rover Discovery. I also, looked at the TrailBlazer, just to compare before I bought the Envoy and found that the Envoy came with more standard options, for your money. So far, after having the vehicle for 3 weeks, Ive only one problem, the OnStar had to be re-programmed since OnStar could not establish a connection with my vehicle. The Envoy rides smooth and has great accelleration and power.

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  Overall Great Vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Cory - December 11 - 2:10 pm

  I changed from a 95 Blazer to the Envoy, it was like going from night to day. I was intially dissapointed with the fuel economy, but after a 1,000 miles the engine seemed to break in and I went from 14 mpg to 17 mpg of city/Hwy driving. I have been very pleased with the vehicle.