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 SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
By redsoxfan2 - September 9 - 2:00 amAfter much research, went with the Envoy vs a 4 runner. Much better price, and has all the options. Love the power, and very smooth. No issues so far, Bose stereo is great. Looking forward to driving in the snow with the new 4 wheel drive. Nice SUV at a good price.
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nice SUV - good value - 2003 GMC Envoy
By iolguy - September 6 - 2:00 amNice ride for an SUV and Ive had 5 Explorers before this car. Step up from the Chevy Trailblazer in looks and details, but essentially the same vehicle.
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02 Envoy a nice surprise - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Steve101 - September 1 - 2:00 amOverall a very nice vehicle. 02 Engine warranty extended to 7yr 100,000 for specific problems.
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Overall, a good thing - 2002 GMC Envoy
By meqa - August 20 - 2:00 amI love the look (inside & out) of my 2003 Envoy. The gas mileage is alright. However, coming from a 2000 Expedition, I miss the room. We only have two kids so the room is adequate, but I miss the width of the Expedition. But I do have a lot of trunk space now. I get a lot of compliments on the look of my Envoy. I also love driving with the sunroof open, the Bose stereo on and the woodgrain look accents and the leather interior. It is indeed a fine looking vehicle. I have read reviews about the ride being like that of a truck, but I think the ride is pretty smooth. Overall, I think the Envoy is a good thing!
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Not happy - 2002 GMC Envoy
By GMaxson - August 19 - 2:00 amWeve had nothing but problems with the driver 1 and 2 mirror settings working correctly. It has been in at least 6 times for this and has never been fixed. We also get a clunking noise from the rear differential that they can not diagnose. This vehicle is about 20 months old and has been into the shop at least 10 times.
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Last Time to Purchase a GMC Envoy XL SLT - 2003 GMC Envoy
By S Livingston - August 4 - 2:00 amluv my Envoy, but w/all the problems, Im ready to disown. Liftgate panel broke in wk. Brake knock & let go on roads under construction or uneven. SVS says OK. Feel uneasy when braking, might hit something/someone. Sensor in driver panel had buzzing noise. Took 2X for repair. Rotten mildew odor in the AC. SVS says to turn off recycling however been doing their way & still smells. Looking for another dealership. Lining around the windows are starting to sound like the windows are open, so when driving at 65 mph sound like an open window and you hear that annoying wind sound. I should be picky for the kind of money spent on this vehicle.
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Fun Car - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Direct52 - July 30 - 10:00 amPurchased in October 2001. Have decent fuel mileage of 19mpg. Mirrors never return to the preset position and seats frequently do not. Cup holders are poorly placed and there is just not enough front seat storage. Compressor failed with 10000 miles on car. Having said all this negative stuff, the car has outstanding styling and is fun to drive. The extras (Note taking, homelink, bose stereo, etc) make it a lot of fun. All in all a good car.
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reliability? - 2002 GMC Envoy
By robdale/dlandry29 - July 21 - 2:00 amI have owned my Envoy since April 2002 and have loved the way it handled and its reliablity. My transmission began making noises a month ago and went totally out the other day leaving me stranded. It was towed to the dealership and they replaced the valve body. I have always felt safe and depended on my Envoy. Now I am considering trading it in on another type SUV all together. My dream SUV has become a potential nightmare!
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Great Luxury SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
By Daniel Garcia - July 21 - 2:00 amPlenty of room for my 3 girls and their friends. I have the 8 cyl 5300 vortec, and its got plentyof get up and go. Great comfort on long road trips. With optional entertainment in the rear rows for the kids who dont seem to have the same taste in music. Has an eye catching exterior. Very stylish. I am very pleased with my new SUV and feel comfortable that my girls are safe.
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Nice Product! - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Doug Adams - June 23 - 2:00 amAfter a year of owning this SUV, we are pleased overall. Very comfortable to drive, average mileage. I have owned Expedition, Explorers, etc. and am pleased to move back to GM. Im having a little difficulty adjusting to size after Expedition. Only one small problem in a year (leaking water). Good performance in the 6 cyl engine! Very quiet to drive. Would recommend this vehicle to anyone.
