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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Nice Ride - 2007 GMC Envoy
By Joe - July 17 - 3:21 pmI was hesitant to by an American made car since I always have driven a Toyota but so far I have been very impressed. The Envoy is very comfortable, has great pick up and go while sustaining very little road noise. So far, I am really impressed.
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First Impressions - 2004 GMC Envoy
By wwhc43a - July 16 - 10:00 amI looked far and wide for the best deal on an SUV regardless of brand or ultimate price - hey, I like to save LOTS of cash on a vehicle I like. Without influence by sterotype reviews that always seem to bash American- designed products I went SUV shopping. The ENVOY won my game. I got a great price ($25,222 out the door including all taxes, etc.) for a vehicle that was priced after taxes at around $35,000. AND IT IS A WONDERFUL VEHICLE TO DRIVE-- AND LOOKS GREAT. I have had some time to inspect the interior and exterior build - especially the engine, frame, etc. I AM IMPRESSED.
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GMCs Number 1 - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Bubba692007 - July 14 - 10:00 pmI purchased my Envoy two years ago and am totally in love with it. I keep up with the maintenance myself at home. I have yet to have a problem with it. It has been a totally reliable vehicle for me and my family. In two years I have not had to fix anything on it other than a door that was damaged in an accident. It rides like a dream and is very comfortable for me, my wife and daughter. The amount of room in it is for the most part more than we need. I can see still having enough room if we were to have another child as well. I am a die hard GM fan, its in my blood and the Envoy has reassured me that i will always ride with GM products. It is well worth the money.
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Cant beat it! - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Debbie - July 8 - 3:48 pmGoing from a Acura sports car, to a GMC Envoy, I was impressed. Both had the power and comfort I needed and enjoy. The kids like that they can listen to their own music from the back, when they forget to bring something along for the journey. Its very open and roomy I dont feel closed in like some SUVs. I dont have a blind spots, and the sunroof is perfect for more openness. Testing other mid size SUVs, Im happy to say.... this was a perfect choice.
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Ready to sell - 2007 GMC Envoy
By adam - June 30 - 8:49 amThis is my second Envoy, my first was a 2002. It had massive engine problems at 2000 miles and after I totaled it from hitting a deer, I got a new one. I primarily got it for the high comfort great looks. It has little problems that make it spend days at the shop. It has also lost most of its value over the 5 months Ive owned it. I would not buy another but I would rather buy an American car rather than some Honda or Toyota.
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Nice vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
By JAY - June 24 - 7:57 pmIt has been a reliable and especially comfortable vehicle for me. You could not ask for more options with the SLT package.
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A pleasure to drive - 2007 GMC Envoy
By r wind - June 15 - 11:39 pmAfter driving a 98 Tahoe for 9 years, with its poor brakes, poor gas mileage, and sloppy handling, it has been a real pleasure to experience the performance of my 2007 Envoy Denali. The 5.3 litre V8 out performs the 5.7 in my 98 by far and the gas mileage is at least 30% better around town. I havent found anything I dont like about the car. Well, just one, no glove box light.
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sweet ride - 2004 GMC Envoy
By wilma fingadoo - May 28 - 10:00 ambeatiful car i cant even tell you how much i like this car best suv on the road
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Best kept secret is the GMC Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
By gaines - May 20 - 8:09 pmGreat vehicle! Has power, comfort and safety features galore. Fuel injected v-8 can run with anybody, yet if you keep your foot out of it gets relatively good mileage. We have the SLT XL package. Its loaded with leather and all the other bells and whistles. Do yourself a favor, drive one when you get serious about looking for a quality ride.
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Easy Choice - 2007 GMC Envoy
By Easy Choice - May 11 - 3:35 pmPurchased new the day after big snowstorm.The 4WD is awesome and unobtrusive - really gets the job done. Also took from Ohio to Florida and back, great road vehicle. Fuel economy didnt suffer despite speeds of, well, lets just say well north of 70 MPH during the entire trip. Tire pressure monitor system saved our bacon when we picked up a screw in a tire in GA. The alert allowed me to change the tire before it went down and destroyed itself. Really nice vehicle. This thing has awesome legroom. Im 6" and can totally stretch out.
