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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I Like It - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Bob Camporeale - July 20 - 10:00 amWe just got it and already drove it to MA to visit our daughter at school. The ride was very pleasant and did not feel like we were riding in a "Truck". My wife will be the primary driver and she likes the room and seats. Gas mileage is not very good even for an SUV. It is eary but I estimate about 18-19mpg on the highway and only 14 or so around town. We got a base 4WD model which still had a great range of features.
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American luxury - 2004 GMC Envoy
By thyl - July 20 - 2:00 amI just bought it and it is the perfect size for my family
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2004 GMC ENVOY SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
By don4568 - July 13 - 2:00 amthe ENVOY is great.
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Best SUV on the market. - 2004 GMC Envoy
By DYNAMIC - July 12 - 2:00 amBeing a aerospace engineer (Aircraft designer) this design tops all other SUVs. For its safety performance and comfort. This veichel is under rated and should be reviewed more carefuly. A very well engineered SUV/TRUCK.
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GMC Envoy Review - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Jerry G - July 11 - 2:00 amI have never been so pleased with the performance, handling and reliability of a vehivle. The Envoy is fun to drive and the excellent visability and comfortable handling makes driving safe and a pleasure on the highways I use. I am sold on this truck. I am confident that I will purchase another GMC product.
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Good, quality American truck - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Matt Moskowitz - July 9 - 2:00 amThe Envoy has been great. I leased it for about a year now. Before i had the GMC Jimmy and i found i was bringing it in to be fixed every month. So far so good with the Envoy. No problems, except for the "service 4WD" light on the dashboard that lights up every so often. I think it means nothing. I start it up again and it disappears.
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Van to SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By RUEnvoyous? - June 29 - 2:00 amYes, we traded in the family van for an SUV.......looked at many, decided on the Envoy XL because it has so many features that are still compatible with having children. Love the styling, the ride is great and the storage more than most of the mid-size SUVs we looked at. Very happy with our decision!
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Its Wonderful - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Jimmy Ted B - June 28 - 2:00 amJust a great all around car, loaded with many extras. Getting 20-21MPG. Comfortable. Love the radio as you increase speed and noise from road it authmaticly increases volume, then down again whrn you slow down. Just fun to drive, do not agree with the Editors at all in their elvauation.
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Great all around SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By licciej - June 26 - 2:00 amI have enjoyed this vehicle on long trips to New Hampshire and other New England States.
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Love It - 2003 GMC Envoy
By Armaheadon - June 21 - 2:00 amI bought a used Envoy. After reading reviews, I opted for the 2003 over the 2002. I really love the truck and dont have any complaints. I did get the SLT with all of the extra options. The difference between the SLE and SLT are night and day if you like comfort. I wouldnt have bought the SLE version. Its a truck..not a car-based SUV. With that in mind.. there are only positive things to say about this vehicle. Comfortable, stylish, and very roomy for its class. I average about 20mpg..which isnt great.. but I wouldnt be driving a powerful SUV if that concerned me. Over all I would reccomend the Envoy SLT.
