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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  LOVE IT - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Vroom - May 28 - 2:00 am

  I was into imports before I bought my Envoy. All I can say is that I LOVE IT. Nice smooth drive and very comfortable. The optional DVD is great for keeping my lil brother quiet on long trips. Very nice interior.

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  my toy envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By gtb32 - May 11 - 2:00 am

  iv always drive sedans ,this is my first time in suv ,so its been almost two year"s this june. love to drive it im retired and take all over town.so let me say love to drive .

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  2003 GMC Envoy SLT - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By joy41 - May 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the best suv i have bought. I wanted leather and 4wd . We looked at every mid-size except ford We love this auto

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  "Tippy" ??? That is crazy!!! - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Uncle Chuck - May 7 - 2:00 am

  The Envoy is a very stable and safe feeling drive. At no moment have I ever felt it to be "Tippy". Perhaps who ever described it that way was referring to an older model like a 2000. If you are reading this, call Allen GMC in Laguna Niguel, CA for a test drive. Im sure you will agree with me.

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  Envoy Better take a ride - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By paulmc - May 5 - 2:00 am

  Just a marvelous ride...Everything works and it is truly a great SUV.

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  GMC has done it right with Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By bokubux - April 28 - 2:00 am

  Overall good value, comfortable, quiet, solid ride, excellent acceleration. We looked at Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and this was as good or better at a more reasonable price. The Toyota was presented as a better built vehicle, but it cost thousands more. However, we have really had no problems with over 24,000 miles driven on the Envoy. At 21,000 miles one wiper blade had to be replaced because it did not clear the windshield well enough after ice built up (cost apprx $10.).

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  Edmonds Doesnt Get It - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By ThumbsUp - April 23 - 2:00 am

  It is strange that the review put forth by Edmonds for the 2002 Envoy was replete with accolades for design, performance, comfort, style, etc. Indeed, it was most deserving of the 2002 SUV of the year award. Their review for the same vehicle in 2003 seems to indicate that it is a much lesser product. Apparently the minor change to the taillight and a 5 HP increase destroyed their vision for 2003. Also contrary to Edmonds opinion, I have had a number of favorable comments on the leather interior. Guess I am just too easy to please.

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  Envoy: A Well-Built Performer - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By USCTrojan - April 20 - 2:00 am

  I seriously checked out the Honda, Toyota, and other offerings in the mid-size SUV category. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are like driving heavy, underpowered minivans. I was shocked by their lack of style and quality. They felt like and looked like Fisher- Price. The GMC Envoy is truly a half luxury, half workhorse SUV built by a truck division. My fuel economy is as promised between 15 and 22. Passengers most often compliment the smooth drive. As someone who really studied the mid-size SUV category, the GMC Envoy stands out from the crowd because of its solid performance, stable suspension, upscale styling, and quality build.

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  NEW SLT - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By EDLee - April 20 - 2:00 am

  We have owned SUVs for many years. So far this is one of the best. Lots of power and looks classy. Pewter Metallic with pewter leather interior. Plenty of goodies to play with and Bose system is great. Just got it so time will tell with the reliability issue. Have a 96 Blazer that has been a great vehicle. Traded in a 2000 Tundra, not sorry to see it go. Test drove a Volvo XC70, was not impressed. Volvo dealer was the worst I have experienced to date. GMC dealer outstanding.

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  My first SUV! - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By ranchan80 - April 10 - 2:00 am

  After looking at other SUVs, including the QX4, the highlander, and the RX- 300, I found that the Envoy fit my needs the best! The looks, the performance, and the price won me over. I have had it for about 6000 miles right now, and not a thing wrong with it! Just experienced a horrible Nebraska winter, and the Envoy handled it with ease! Glad i bought it!