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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  Best In Class - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By pbflorida - May 2 - 8:19 pm

  Best size and options for the money in the Denali XL version. I love it. Its not too big (i.e. Yukon or Expedition), but is large enough to really seat 6 - 7 comfortably (unlike Pathfinder, etc), or to seat 5 (or 6) by using the 3rd row seat down entirely or split, and still have LOTS of room for luggage and baby stuff (like a stroller). Took it for a 1000-mile trip over the weekend. Great ride, not like a truck, very smooth, comfortable, and steady, with lots of power in the V8. Wood trim and leather add a luxury feel. Power and heated seats (driver AND passenger), voice navigation, sunroof, XM radio, Onstar, all add up to "what more could you want"?

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  ENVOY LOVER - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By envoy lover - May 2 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my nissan SUV for a more luxurious vehicle which I found in the ENVOY. My cousin has the Pathfinder, which I was condsidering purchasing and my best friend has the Lexus RX 300 which I also considered purchasing but I am extrmely happy with my envoy, mileage is not bad could be better, looks are great,comfort, I even talked a co-worker in purchasing a new envoy

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  This car should be rated higher - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Matt - April 29 - 5:47 pm

  Being a former Land Rover owner, this car far outperforms its competition. It has the acceleration of a car with many feartures most other SUVs do not offer, without charging an arm and a leg. Certainly a vehicle that should be considered when shopping for a durable SUV.

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  Very nice SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By gnlhall - April 25 - 2:00 am

  I love my Envoy. It drives great and is very functional. The styling is much improved (inside and out) from the old Jimmy. The ride and handling are superb.

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  2002 GMC Envoy SLT - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By 2002slt - March 31 - 10:00 am

  The redesign has been long overdue. I think its 100% better than my old 98 Bravada. It handles much better in the Chicago snow, and has 80 more HP! The only gripe I have is with the rear plastic frame on the hatch\tailgate. It expands when the sun hits it and scrapes away some of the paint on the metal panel its connected to. Its only noticeable if youre looking for it. Also, it leaves the primer, so no worries about rust. This SHOULD be solved soon. The new models now have a gasket installed between the two. Its by far the best vehicle Ive owned.

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  Happy I Changed - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By GAYLE - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Glad I made the move from Jeep Grd Cher to GMC. Almost didnt get another SUV. Hope quality continues - no problems in 2300 miles.

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  Ill take it - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Scubadog - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Have had mine for 11 months now, and the only two problems were the suspension recall (in effect before I took delivery, so mine was fixed before I got it), and a recall to reprogram the transfer case that took less than 20 minutes. Excellent to drive, all features (mines a loaded SLT) work as designed, plenty of power, and no problem with Chicago winters. One annoyance, the side-view mirrors reset themselves to a different location each day, despite the fact that Im Driver #1 in the program / key fob and the only one driving it.

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  Great Vehicle So Far - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By le - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Just took delivery of a new Envoy. Last vehicle was a GMC Denali which traveled 35000 miles in 14 mo. Its a tough act to follow, but I must say in a lot of ways its a better vehicle. Ive put 1000 miles on it so far with no problems. Much better gas milage,almost as much pick-up and very comfortable. Actually the Envoy has more leg room in it than the Denali. Im very impressed so far!!!

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  Affordable - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Brian Cable - March 19 - 1:56 pm

  Its been one of the most comfortable vehicles that Ive ever owned. Ive owned a Suburban, a minivan, and new pickups, and so far it has been one of the most stylish, comfortable and most accomadating vehicles that Ive had.

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  Envoy- Awesome Vehicle - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Dan - March 4 - 11:56 pm

  Envoy is a wonderful vehicle with a luxurious looking interior. Very quiet ride, and the vehicle is the perfect size for a family of four. Handling in the winter is excellent in Auto 4WD or in 4WD. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone considering a midsize sport utility. The inline 6 cylinder engine is a quiet and smooth operating engine.