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 SLE - Great SUV! - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Sportsnut - March 24 - 2:00 am

  I researched over and over again looking for the one SUV I wanted. The Envoy was my first choice and even though my attention would sway to others, this is the one I got. Yea, I also read others have a better resale value like the Toyota 4 Runner but you cant beat the deals GMC is offering. I got a great vehicle $7000 less than the sticker MSRP. Im very happy with my purchase.

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  Love It - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Rivi - March 20 - 2:00 am

  Not much to say at the moment, only had it for less than a week. What I can say is that it has alot of power.

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  Shirleys Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By dacotahkid - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful vehicle with one major flaw. When you get in a strong cross wind your wind noise can drown out a cell phone and render your onstar phone useless while traveling. Also at very cold temperatures the footfeet freezes. That is a simple fix if you warm up the vehicle and restart the engine.

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  My Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Kenneth Grant` - March 14 - 10:00 am

  The handling of the suv is great ,fun to drive,& plenty of power.

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  Envoy Review - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Joe Envoy - March 12 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this vehicle for 36000 miles. It provides a good ride and reasonably decent handling. The inline six has plently of power for towing and going. The transmission shifts smoothly and firmly. The interior provides plently of room for dogs, suitcases and general gargo hauling. This SUV is comfortable, quiet and a joy to travel in.

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  Happy with suv angry with dealer - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By AECHEZ - February 29 - 2:00 am

  This is the best suv I have ever had I have had it for a year and my first problem occured this month with a thumping in the front end when I hit minor road bumps.Unfortunetly I am not happy with CERAMI PONTIAC in New Jersey with their service dept.I buy a $34,000 suv and I couldnt even get a loaner from the dealership for the day go figure they rather lose someones business than give them a $30,00 dollar loaner.Anyway I reccomend the suv but I dont reccomend Cerami Pontiac in NEW JERSEY.

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  Great vehicle - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Lschill - February 13 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV & I love it! Great storage room-we moved our son to college & loaded ALL of his belongings in it & still had room for the 3 of us. My husband works at the facility that makes the engine so we knew that it was well made. Was disappointed with the gas mileage for such an efficient engine. But it has a 16-17 gal. tank so I guess it performs about average. Would recommend it to others. The 04s have some really nice features.

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  For fun buy the Envoy! - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Rodney Maerz - February 11 - 12:16 am

  I think this is a good bang for the buck. The outside appearance is classy. Body and frame are well built for a smoothe quiet ride. The interior is the most comfortable of all we test drove (Lexus RX300, Mercedes ML320, BMW X5). The only thing lacking in this vehicle is front seat cup holders (2) and easy to reach storage. Dont let that keep you from owning this magnificent SUV!

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  My SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By linda lou - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Handles well, VERY comfortable ride and we desin ged interior.

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  First impressions - 2004 2wd Envoy SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By bocaratonfl - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Took delivery first week in august. All city driving so far. Avg mpg 15+. Rides and handles great. Plenty of gadgets to play with. Will take on first road trip this weekend.