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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  2006 Envoy Denali - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Rathead - January 20 - 8:25 am

  Quiet, fast, and smooth, and good fuel mileage. I have no complaints. This vehicle is so much better than any other competitors, and I expect reliability to be better as well.

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  Love it - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By El Paso - January 15 - 10:39 pm

  Test drove Ford Expedition, Explorer, Edge along with testing Nissan, Toyota among others. GMC Envoy Denali had the best comfort, get up and go, and look of all the rest. I chose the CD changer and kids love the entertainment system. XM satellite also complements vehicle. Drives nice and quiet.

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By kws51359 - January 5 - 12:03 am

  Since I purchased this vehicle it has totally changed my opinion of GM products. This is a very comfortable and smooth riding vehicle

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  Great Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Rick - January 1 - 4:00 pm

  We were considering a BMW or Lexus until we drove the Envoy. It is the most soundproof vehicle Ive ever been in. The power train is great, the ride is great, the fuel econcony is great and it just looks good. I would most certainly buy another one.

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  Very Happy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Steve - December 29 - 2:30 pm

  Bought our Envoy in September and have loved it ever since. It has lots of power and great acceleration, and has no problem towing our boat and snowmobiles. Very comfortable interior with more space than our old Venture in the rear seat. The Envoy seems to be very quiet driving, all though it has a beautifull growl when you really floor it. Auto 4wd is great in the snow. The only problem is that the Envoy is a pig on gas, were only getting approx 14mpg and thats stretching it. Overall we are very happy with our Envoy.

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  Loving it! - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By Patricks Denali - December 28 - 3:29 am

  I absolutely love driving this vehicle. That V8 w/302 horses under the hood ensures your entry onto the highway is a seamless transition. The ride is extremely comfortable and quiet. It rides just as smooth as my 2006 Lexus GS300 AWD! This is a well built vehicle with nice amenities. The Nav system does eliminate the 6 disc CD, however, I never listen to CDs in the car. I listen to my XM satellite radio. My wife and I test drove all the competitors product and decided to purchase the Denali. What a great decision!

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  Denali = Outstanding Value for your Money - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By Lav_tip - December 19 - 2:55 pm

  I really enjoy this vehicle. I personally like the nav system and dont really care about the whole "CD" issue. Oh by the way, I also own an 06 Lexus GS300 AWD and my wife owns an 06 RX330 and neither one of us listens to CDs. We do however enjoy our subscriptions to XM satellite radio. I test all the competitors products and found that the Denali was equivalent to the 4Runner, Pathfinder and the other American products as well. I love driving this vehicle. I drove it from Herndon, VA to Knoxville, TN and it performed extremely well and was a very comfortable ride.

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  Beats the Explorer by 1.1 mile - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Polu - December 16 - 7:33 pm

  The Envoy obviously has the zest when accelerating, but did not feel too responsive in city stop and go. There is also a noticeable body lean driving around corners. However, overall performance, handsome looks, and the loaded features out weights all this; especially the Explorer.

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  Now Im stuck - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Brent - December 13 - 11:19 am

  I would love to trade this thing in but, the dealer just laughs and points at an endless line of used Envoys that theyre also stuck with. Now I know why they were giving these away. My motorcycle has less wind noise, and there is always some sort of rattle. There has been a clanking sound, like somethings loose under it ever since we got it and even with the numerous trips to the dealer for all the other problems they never found it. And now that its out of warranty every time you start it the reduced power light comes on and runs rough until you shut it off for a few minutes then start it again. I advise against buying an Envoy, but if you still want one I have one for sale real cheap.

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  Happy Driver - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By love it - December 7 - 12:22 am

  I love my Envoy. For a truck the handling is wonderful. Great pick-up in the 6 cyl and a very comfortable drive. I splurged on top of the line interior and it is well worth it. My biggest complaint is the very noisy air conditioning system. Unless you have it on low it is very noticable and annoying. Also the back windows cannot be opened unless the front are also open or you have a very uncomfortable air compression going on. Small problems to put up with compared to the very positive performance, style and comfort. I love the OnStar feature. Well worth the small cost.