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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GMC ENVOY - 2004 GMC Envoy
By aeflightnurse - May 3 - 2:00 amA joy to drive with many options available. On Star comes standard. Drives much more like a car than a truck or SUV, a quiet, smooth ride.
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Rays SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Ray Helms - May 2 - 2:00 amI have owned this vehicle for two and one half years and have driven it 37000 miles. It has performed exceptionally well in every respect.I have not been disapppointed in any way.
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Love this Envoy XL - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Marvin Ivey - May 2 - 2:00 amGreat Vehicle! bought new in Jan 04, have 10,000 mils + already. Outstanding ride! Lots of room, (I got the XL model) very, very quiet. Comfortable, w/good features. Better fuel economy than I expected. Getting from 16 to 19mpg. Have owned numerous vehicles, and so far, I like this vehicle best of any of them. Opted for this Envoy because of potential economy with 6 cylinders, yet plenty of power with a 4.2L. Also when younger (now age 68) I drove a lot of cars & trucks with "straight sixs" and never had a bad one. The Dealer gave me a good deal w/0% financing. Overall Im a happy camper.
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Envoy LUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By mrssmith - April 29 - 2:00 amI have had my Envoy for only a month, but I love it! I dont even mind making the payments!
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Envoy - Great Vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
By JonRein - April 17 - 2:00 amThis vehicle is the best vehicle that we have ever owned. It has great features and good ride with plenty of power. It is loaded with options and is very luxurious.
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Power, Comfort & Fun to Drive - 2004 GMC Envoy
By erika - April 13 - 2:00 amThis SUV handles like a dream! It is super fun to drive. My first SUV and I love it. Shopped the competition and this was the best overall- power, safety, size, comfort, style, etc. Fuel economy is as is expected with 275 horsepower and TRUE towing ability. So far I love it and look forward to driving it! Handles great! Quiet like a car.
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Great SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
By danshaffer - April 12 - 2:00 amGreat SUV, fun to drive, good quality. An overall great SUV to own. Would like to keep it forever.
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Great SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Bill and Fran - April 2 - 2:00 amThis is the most comfortable SUV I have ever driven. It handles smoothly on the highway with plenty of power when needed.
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GMC ENVOY - 2004 GMC Envoy
By J. Rauch - March 25 - 2:00 amIf you are looking for a really nice, fun SUV - the ENVOY is for you. My husband and I looked at many comparable SUVs like the 4Runner, Explorer, and the Cherokee, but noticed that they did not have the "nice" and "high-end" look that the ENVOY does. None of the other SUVs listed above had an interior that even comes close to the ENVOY. It is way more classy and stylish too! Another thing that I like about the ENVOY is the fact that it is the only SUV that does not come with a roll-over warning on the visor (which makes me feel a little safer), is has great pick-up on the go, a super quiet engine that you cant really hear and a really smooth ride.
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Love the Envoy! - 2004 GMC Envoy
By rednekdiva - March 24 - 2:00 amThis SUV rides better than any other Ive driven in its price range, even better than the Intrigue or Regal! Tons of power. Gas milage is more than I expected, though...about 16-21/gallon. Looks sharp, built tough, and very family friendly.
