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 Envoy Mama - March 2 - 2:00 amI searched for a long time to find the perfect replacement for my minivan and I found it! I needed the convienence of the third row seat for carpool,etc but I also wanted to find something that wasnt quite as "mom-mobile" as my van. Needless to say, the sleek looking XL grabbed my attention and won me over when I drove it. There isnt really anything I can complain about. I feel secure, my kids have ample room and the cargo space is generous when all 3 rows are in use. I would have liked arm rests and a larger storage compartment between the seats (which my husband has in his Sierra) but as far as all around looks and function..I am one happy Mama.
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03 Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
By skydo - February 26 - 2:00 amI really enjoy driving this Envoy. It looks great and has a Cady ride. I do agree the it is a bit "tippy" feeling when cornering hard but it is a SUV after all. The I-6 power is great and doesnt have a soft spot. The 4WD system is easy to get to when needed.
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No regrets - 2002 GMC Envoy
By JayDee - February 19 - 2:00 amI traded in a Ford Expedition for the Envoy - no regrets. The Envoy rides great, is the right size, and is much more comfortable on long trips. We haul lots of "stuff" and a big labrador in the back, and have plenty of room. Unlike some other reviews, I am getting 23 mpg on the highway at 75 mph, compared to 16 mpg for the Expedition. For a 4000 lb. plus car, thats not too bad. So far, no problems with the car. I do think GM builds a "looser" car than Ford or Chrysler, which I think are "tighter". But I had GM products before, so was aware of that up front. All in all, we really like our Envoy, and would recommend it to others.
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Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2003 GMC Envoy
By jlem - February 13 - 2:00 amBought my first SUV six weeks ago and opted for the Envoy SLT, fully loaded, mostly because I liked its lines, but also because of what Id read about it. Test-drove it and found it comparable or superior to other SUVs I tested, including Land Cruiser. Its solid on the road and quiet, even at 80 mph, a very comfortable. The only negative, a small complaint, is the poor city gas mileage - about 14 mpg, sometimes less. But on the highway, I get better than 20 mpg, even at sustained high speed.
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Not Tippy or Numb - 2003 GMC Envoy
By hooverj - February 8 - 2:00 amAfter having spent months looking at and driving all the other major players in this class, Envoy was overall and in most areas superior. Dont know what reviewer decided "numb steering" and "tippy in the twisty", the only one close in quality and handling but with better gas mileage was 4-Runner!
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Best SUV Ive had yet - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Bernard Gonda - January 19 - 2:00 amI have had MPVs, Blazers, and Explorers but nothing matches the ride I get from this SUV. My wife and I prefer to travel in it over our Bonneville. I have only had one problem with it. Recently the load levelers failed because the check valve on the compressor broke. This was remedied by the dealer in 4 hours.
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GREAT SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
By RICHARD EDWARDS - January 16 - 2:00 amTHIS IS THE BEST SUV I THINK ON THE MARKET .FEELS BETTER THAN ANY OF THE BMWS OR OTHER CARS THAT I HAVE EVER HAD.I DROVE MANY SUV S AND BY FAR THE ENVOY WAS THE BEST
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GREAT RIDE - 1999 GMC Envoy
By Californiazombie - January 12 - 2:00 amThis is a well built vehicle! I bought my Envoy USED (it was a lease return!), and got a fantastic price. The ride is smooth, engine powerful, and the truck handles well. Took it off road with no problems, and have the ability to switch to 4 wheel high in the rain. Sunroof, 6 way heated seats, leather, wood grain dash take it to the next level!! If you can find this truck...grab it! Its well worth it. Only improvement would be the gas milage....which is approx 15 city 18 highway. All around GREAT vehicle!
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Nice Vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
By retiredand lovingit - January 7 - 2:00 amCar has been very reliable and gets fair gas millage. We have been on several long trips and have found the ride very comfortable, and the interior space adequate for 4 adults
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gmc rocks - 2004 GMC Envoy
By denys - January 6 - 10:00 amvery nice suv, easy to handle, fun to drive, very soft, as economy--just like any other suv--could be better, but for its size i guess it is okay. power windows and power locks are standart, keyless entry is too, spacious trunk, nice interior design, especially if you can get it in leather
