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 , whats not to like about the GMC Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Michael Zappia - November 24 - 7:58 pm

  Its a 4.2 liter V6, has plenty of power the transmission works great , smooth shifts, very attractive , reliable, fun to drive , 4WD works great , The SLE trim model is cloth seats , FM/AM radio, power seats, OnStar, Alloy wheels, The SLt model is a step up with leather heated seats and Bose speakers, Envoy Denali has entertainment system with navigation and bose speakers and comes with a powerful 5.3L V8. I have a 2003 SLE model and it has 235,xxx miles on it and is the best car we have ever owned , its never had any issues and continues to be a great daily driver. The GMC Envoy is a great SUV to buy, you will get more for your money than any other vehicle.

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  Great Vehicle;Envoy SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Davanza - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I have no complaints. I compared it with the Toyata 4 Runner and Envoy won.4Runner is nice looking but it road more bump and the body was tinny.Its not as solid as the Envoy.Envoy rides better and hands better. I feel as if Toyoto put a truck body on a car chassi and Envoy put a truck body on a truck chassi.Im no pro but I shopped around and felt that I made the right choice with GMC.

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  Great Car - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By SMBloom - November 8 - 12:30 am

  I recently got an Envoy - and I love it! Its a great vehicle, drive fantastic, and drives more like a car, rather than a truck. It has a beautiful leather interior. The only negative is that it goes through gas quickly.

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  Envoy 2004 - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By rgdircks - November 7 - 5:49 pm

  I use the SUV as a around town car and a tow vehicle for an RV. Ease of towing was pprime reason for buying but I was pleasantly surprised when I started using it all the time. Ride is nice but firm enough for good control. Seat back has lumbar support for my bad back and is great. An all around great car for what I use it for. No problems with it at all.

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  Love my Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By ItsMeCyndi - November 7 - 10:13 am

  The best vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  Envoy of fun - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By ddodd47834@aol.com - November 1 - 2:00 am

  The Envoy is fun to drive with great looks, power and easy to get in and out of.

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  RE: 2005 GMC Envoy SLT - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Eyedoc164 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  GMC was always under the radar screen when I leased SUVs. Only test drove it because of a GM promotion. Have had the car for only 500 miles and am incredibly impressed with its size, comfort, carlike ride, and amazing luxury features. As a 15 yr lonstanding driver of Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer, can only say that this vehicle is in is every way comparable and more comfortable and fun to drive. With more bells and whistles than my Eddie Bauer: Onstar, XM radio/telephone, rainsensing wipers, headlight washers, cant think of anything they missed. Can only say that this is a " must see " if you considering a midsize SUV.

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  Great Value, Great Utility - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Frede2ROK - October 24 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle meets the expectation for a utility vehicle in that it serves many uses. It has the power to pull a trailer and the space to support a tailgate party at a ballgame. It is comfortable and easy to drive and park.

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  Well Done - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By CTM2000 - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Compare to all the cars that Ive drove.. MDX, Pathfinder, highlander, nothing near the power of the New Envoy. Its totally Roomy and powerful. I dont have the roof retrack option but that a brillian Idea. I love it

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  good suv - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By plbldr1 - October 9 - 2:00 am

  the vehicle appears to be well built and sound. The in-line six cylinder engine had a super track record of reliability and supplies plenty of power and acceleration. As a first time GMC buyer I am very happy.