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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  Test drive for yourself - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Bob Larson - June 15 - 6:26 pm

  Our GMC Envoy is an outstanding vehicle. The ride quality and quiet interior (thanks in part to the power rear glass that separates the cargo area in the XUV) are soothing on the highway. The chassis and steering are more-than-competent in real world driving--this is not a track racer! Amenities are first rate. The new leather seating impresses, the V8 is silky sweet, and the value of OnStar should not be underestimated in comparisons. We like the new touchscreen Nav system and XM radio. Its sad that the XUV roof is being dropped in 06, being a major leap in versatility and beautifully executed. Lovable!

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  I love my Envoy! - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Lori - June 13 - 8:29 pm

  I absolutely love the GMC Envoy. I shopped for 6 months looking at similar vehichles and am very happy with my choice. The dealer was wonderful and so was GMAC financing. There was a little ping sound with my interior lights, so I just took it in and they fixed it right away, while I waited for free. There are no loopholes in their warranty, unlike my husbands experience with his Ford Explorer a few years ago.

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  Pros and Cons - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By adidas4089 - June 13 - 5:09 pm

  This is an excellent SUV, however with all SUVs there is the drawback of horrible gas mileage. Although the Envoy isnt the worst in its class in terms of gas mileage, it doesnt impress in town. Highway gas mileage on the other hand, is quite bearable. My tank holds about 20 to 22 gallons, and I usually get about 350 miles to the tank on the highway.

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  Best I have ever purchased - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Thomas Gray - June 13 - 4:46 pm

  This midsize SUV has to be one of the smoothest riding American built SUVs of its class. It handles extremely well. Vision of the road is superior as well. The leg room in the front is the best that I test drove. Very happy with it so far.

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  First American Car - Very Impressed - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By drweby - June 10 - 6:21 pm

  2005 Envoy Denali - Ive owned a lot of cars but this is my first American car. The interior is beautiful, solid, and very comfortable. Theres a button for everything, and I love that! I love the look of the chrome accents on the outside, and the grille is an awesome design. The lamenated glass and sound proofing in the Denali edition make the inside very quiet. The only thing I kind of have a gripe about is the paint isnt as smooth as it could be. In that department the imports still rule.

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  Owner - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Sue - June 5 - 8:55 am

  Smaller than the Yukon and easy to drive and get into parking spaces. Gas mileage is a lot better than the Yukon too. it has lots of bells and whistles and a wonderful sound system. (Bose)

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  Sharp looking SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Kevin R. - June 3 - 10:01 pm

  At first I thought the vehicle was a nightmare due to 3 problems in the first week, 4wd selector switch, squeaking sound from the front hood latch, and the brakes were after market at 30,000 miles- Do yourself a favor and demand factory brake pads or you will sound like a bus when you stop. Other than the first week I have enjoyed my Envoy SLT 4WD. It is by far the nicest looking SUV on the road, and has the power of an 8 cyl. Looks like an Escalade on a diet.

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  My 05 GMC - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Larry Seward - May 27 - 7:13 pm

  Great towing vehicle. Not a luxury ride, but better than most SUVs. it has a very comfortable interior. Comes with all the right options to make it "your car". This is my 4th GMC... they continue to improve. One drawback, there is very little storage space for personal items near the driver (compartments, shelves or pockets). The engine is strong enough for most of us and trouble-free. Back seats are comfortable and roomy. OnStar and XM radio are great and sound system is excellent.

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  Solid SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By kmbsuv - May 25 - 2:57 pm

  I have owned my 2004 GMC Envoy for a little over a year now and Im very pleased with it. The ride quality is great for long trips and I love the exterior styling. Its been fantastic for my many trips to Home Depot. The wide cargo opening is definitely a plus. The dual climate control is great because my wife is always cold and Im always warm. I have brought it back to the dealer a few times for a few problems that were fixed under warranty immediately. The gas mileage could be better, but I knew about that before I bought it. Since I dont drive too much, it hasnt been a problem even with the high gas prices.

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  What an SUV - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By ed and angie - May 24 - 6:51 pm

  This is unlike any SUV I have ever been in or driven. Its great for the money,and I will never drive anything else. My 3 year old son loves it. Everyday he asks me to go for a ride. Everyone who has been in it has wanted it. The sun roof is great. My sister has a Cadillac SUV and is now trading hers in for this. you dont need to spend an arm and a leg for luxury.