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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  I love my truck - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By KLS - February 21 - 10:00 am

  The best vehicle Ive ever owned. Comfortable, stylish, nice ride, better turning ratius then the past years! I love it.

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  My SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By netnut - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I love this SUV. Although it is my first I am very happy with this one. I have the SLE with the B package and a power sunroof. It rides as smoothe as my 2002 Camry that I traded for it. I tried the Chev Trailblazer that my husband wanted and it was the bumpiest ride ever and cheapiest looking interior. Also it was the second Trailblazer that had a puddle of water in floorboard of driver side. One was a 2003 on a lot with only 6000 miles on it and on a different lot, different city a 2004 (NEW)with same problem, ..so beware of Trailblazers!! Overall stick with the Envoy for comfort and pleasureable driving.

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  What a Ride ! - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Borgward - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Have only had this Envoy for 3 weeks but I am more than impressed with the ride and comfort. My last three cars were Mercury Grand Marquis and I must say the ride of this one is far superior. Im one of those guys who said Id never own an SUV, but after spending an hour with a demo I was smitten. Have two minor problems, one is I cant get any water to come from the rear window washer, and the other one of the turn signal illumination lights will not light. Im sure nothing major, just waiting for a few more miles to get that adjusted. Only other problem is a little wind noise around the drivers door.

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  The BEST SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Fourroses - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned and have bought many new vehicle such as Cadillac, Reatta, etc. There are absolutely none that can compare to the ride, comfort, handling, and options of 2002 GMC Envoy. This Envoy had every available option and would not own any SUV on the market today.

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  new owner - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By wheeler,m - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Im a first time GMC buyer and purchased the 2004 Envoy EX after driving multiple suvs in the same class. It is a quality suv and i am well pleased so far in all aspects. I was afraid it would be to big and bulky for every day driving but have found it to handle great in all types of road conditions. Does well in snow and rain. My grandchildren love the dvd and with their car seats placed in the 3rd seat i can see them well through the rear view mirror. This is a plus for me.

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  GMC Envoy Experience - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By raw100 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Excelent vehicle delivers all that is promised

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  GMC ENVOY Best SUV on Market - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Frank J. Schmidt - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Having owned 5 Ford Explorer SUVs, the GMC ENVOY was a surprising improvement, both in performance and reliablity. My last Explorer SOHC, blew the engine from the bad timing chain. I need an SUV, so I looked at them all. The GMC had this new in line six @270hp, more powerful than all the V8 on the market. Hydro formed framing makes this a very solid vehicle. Pulling power is more, corning is less than every other SUV. Trans is smooth, rides like a car. Love it.

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  professional yes - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By cstock - June 2 - 2:43 am

  now have 6000 miles, very happy, great interior, lots of power, looks good, no problem with build quality, so far so good.

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  Pretty Good! - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By myet01 - April 17 - 10:00 am

  First SUV, pretty impressed so far!

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  excellent envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By neoutdoorsman - April 4 - 2:00 am

  So far very fun to drive, wifes daily car, but I get to drive it nights and weekends look forward to going on trips and light towing with it.