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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  Vehicle Ownership - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By SteveD - July 30 - 9:48 pm

  I really like my 2003 GMC Envoy. It has a good ride especially with the 17" Michelin tires. I can get sometimes between 22-23 MPG highway driving. Combined city and highway is about 16 MPG. No problems so far with this SUV.

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  2004 SLT Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Sailshar - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Envoy is exactly what I hoped for. Traded in 1998 Envoy for this car; the 2004 is much more improved.

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  Great SUV - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By DEHayes - July 20 - 12:15 pm

  We researched this vehicle for about a year and were drawn by the amount of luxury for the price. We purchased (with the rebate and GM Employee discount) for around $31,000! We have been hauling Little League All-Stars around all of June/July and they argue about who gets to go with us. Best SUV I have ever owned. Love the Navigation system, the DVD, the sunroof and the ride!

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  So Far So Good - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Tom Davison - July 20 - 10:00 am

  I am very pleased with the performance of this SUV. It is very powerful and has excellent handling characteristics. The ride with the air suspension is superb. It turns on a dime and is easy to park. The bose stereo is the best I have heard in a car. I have not experienced any of the problems that I have read posted here as of yet. My Envoy was delivered with no defects. I am averaging 17.5 miles per gallon in mostly city/sometimes highway driving.

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  GMC You Got It Right - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Steve - July 19 - 12:40 pm

  Rides like the BMW with nice interior design. Even the parking attendents like the looks. I think that should say it all

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  Good value for your money. - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By curtis love - July 13 - 8:12 pm

  I think this SUV for the money is very well built. If you look at other American SUVs costing way more, I think the SLT 4x4 Envoys are about the best out.

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  All American Vehicle! - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Jodee P. - July 10 - 8:50 am

  When I first sat in the Envoy, I loved the way it felt. The ride was so smooth. I drove every other SUV out there, even the non-American owned, and by far this was the best ride out there. The interior is by far the best in the price range. I love the chrome wheels and front grille! I am a faithful GM buyer and I get so annoyed out there that Americans dont buy American cars. Well, maybe I helped save 1 Americans job in Illinois with the purchase I made!

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  Terrific Vehicle- I recommend - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Tgold - July 5 - 6:23 pm

  I bought the GMC Envoy SLE several weeks ago and love driving it more each day. Its very comfortable and has plenty of power...gas mileage around town seems to suffer...definitely better on the highway.

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  Enjoy the Envoy. - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Nooper pooperson - June 30 - 1:52 pm

  I bought my Envoy because I needed a cheaper car than what I had so I didnt expect much. But this SUV is unbelieveable. The power from this 4.2 I6 is outstanding (290 HP) The ride is the smoothest of any SUV Ive ever ridden in. My Envoy Is Superior Blue Metallic with the gray interior and when cleand up this car shines, especially the 17" polished aluminum wheels. The only drawback is gas mileage. Around 13MPG in town which is not what I expected out of a 6 Cyl. But all of the standard features make up for it.

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  Denali...great buy - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Jen - June 24 - 7:43 am

  I researched many SUVs when I was going to buy my vehicle. I test drove many SUVs including the luxury ones. This was one of my smoother test drives and I just fell in love with it. Great new design on the outside and the ammenities inside are outstanding. i have had my Denali for about a month and I have gotten so many complements on it. Smooth, reliable,safe, stylish and its just an all around smart vehicle. I love it!