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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  SLT Review - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Michael Milbourne - August 12 - 3:41 pm

  My wife brought this automobile home from the dealership. At first look I wasnt impressed at all. Then I got in and drove. WOW, I was impressed. Satellite radio, leather, sunroof, adjustable pedals, and nice ride. I had rented a Ford Escape for a recent trip to Fla. and was glad to turn it in when the trip was over, but I really liked the Envoy. I find myself finding excuses to drive it. And the GM incentives (employee pricing) made it a no-brainer. I would buy another tomorrow if something happened to this one.

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  Love my SUV - 2000 GMC Envoy
  By paul bauer - July 31 - 3:00 pm

  We found an Envoy that had been traded back to the dealer because it was too small for the original owner. They bought a Suburban. It had only 6500 miles on it. We scored. We love it, using it mainly for skiing. It has been a real find.

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  Clearly a Winner for GM - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By R. Neall - July 25 - 6:41 pm

  Having owned a Ford Explorer, I have that as a comparison for my new Envoy. To be honest, there is no comparison. The ride is light years smoother, and despite the professionals viewpoint, it handles corners just fine. It is not a sports car. Im very pleased with the interior room, and it has a great sound system. The XM radio is great on trips. My wife is the trucks prime driver, and knowing that she has OnStar puts my mind at ease. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  2005 GMC SLT Envoy XL - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Rick Cornwall - July 25 - 3:06 pm

  What a great SUV! Terriffic ride and performance. Gas mileage is about what I would expect (14.4 / 17.2). The interior and exterior are nicely finished. With the 3rd. row of seats down, I can carry all my fishing gear and passengers without a problem.

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  Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By doc465 - July 25 - 9:27 am

  Great ride and handling. The turn radius is excelent for the size. it has all the bells for fun, but also serious power when needed. Theres safety in size. Suprisingly good gas mileage for size and type.

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  Nice Vehicle - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By R. A. Pasheilich - July 18 - 12:26 am

  The Envoy is a very comfortable vehicle. I traded in a Ford Explorer with 58,000 miles on the odometer. The Envoy is a much more comfortable ride. The navigation radio is easy to use and the DVD player is great for the kids. The 275HP six is best in class. I considered a new Explorer, but found the features and ride of the GMC to be superior.

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  Nice car - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By rob galla - July 16 - 1:32 pm

  This SUV has a great ride and handles more like a car. Moments into the test drive, I knew I would purchase this vehicle. I bought a black one with gray interior. The interior is roomy for the front and rear passengers.The A/C is great front and rear, and the stereo is also prime.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Nancy Hill - July 10 - 10:49 pm

  I really enjoy driving the Envoy. I feel the handling is great, and it is very quite inside when the windows are up. The ride is smooth, and love the v8 for acceleration. The only faults on the interior are the clock is too small, and its hard to get to the cup holder above the gear shift on the console. I love the room in the back, but I wish the seats folded down a bit flatter. I love the idea of the built in air compressor.

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  Fun to drive Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By acer - July 3 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Envoy for over a month and it has been a great vehicle. Its comfortable and a smooth ride. It was either this one or the Jeep Grand Cherokee but I noticed that the amount of power was awesome and its roomy too for the whole family

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  Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Tonya - June 27 - 8:40 pm

  I went from a full size Yukon to the Envoy. I love the car and it performs and handles much better than the larger vehicle. If you have more than one child this car may not be for you.