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:

• 

  Solid and Stylish - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By jon d stanton - March 25 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV. American made, rugged, peppy, and stylish. Great pick up on the highway. I would like to see different steering wheel controls

• 

  ENVOY WINS OVER HESITANT SUV CONVERT - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By funits - January 22 - 9:13 am

  Being reluctant to buy an SUV (though I needed one -- living on a dirt road hill in NH), I am pleasantly impressed with my 2002 4WD SLT Envoy. It has matched feature for feature my previous Audi/VW cars -- auto climate control, rain sensing wipers, excellent stereo/CD, excellent seats (power/heated in front), excellent motor/power, smooth transmission, good brakes, lots of cargo space. Though a truck, it handles well and I am comfortable driving the Envoy on highways and "twisty" back roads (though some reviews said the vehicle is "tippy", I find it stable). So far the build and functional quality of the Envoy has been fine. If you need an SUV, check out this one.

• 

  bailys ride - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By baily - December 23 - 10:00 am

  didnt not have to much faith in american autos. especilly after the 1999 dodge dakota i use yo own. so far this suv is very well built.

• 

  best suv ever? - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By gwreman - December 11 - 2:00 am

  The vehicle is terrific and the dealer was even better. No problems with the vehicle and the Envoy has met all of my expectations. The dealer has checked with me repeatedly to make sure I am happy. This Envoy is a real winner!

• 

  ENVOY SLT REVIEW - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By LEFTY55 - October 22 - 10:00 am

  THIS VEHICLE IS ONE OF THE TOPS IN ITS CLASS THAT IVE SEEN SP FAR. THE TURNING RADIUS, THE HORSEPOWER, THE COMFORT, IT ALL ADDS UP TO "A+" IN THIS MANS EYES.

• 

  The Best Mid Size SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Shakira - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I am very happy with my suv. However, I do have aleak in the front passenger side of the car. Whenever it rains water leaks into my car! I also had to take it in afeter only 2 months. The heat off switch had t be replaced. Otherwise I love my vehical!

• 

  I love this car - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By muycutie - June 9 - 2:00 am

  The ride is incredibly smooth and quiet. Its the perfect height, not too high but sits up just enough. Its very comfortable as well.

• 

  exellent suv better then the explorer - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By lenny levy - March 30 - 2:00 am

  i think this suv it has the saftey features not like the ford explorer this has on star which i can use if i get into an accident i now that on star automaticly calls for help and they know your exact location this compared to the ford this is like gold and the ford is like dirt and also the ford dealers dont care about there customers they will just sell you the car and never speak to you again.

• 

  best buy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By budl - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Ihave driven Mercedes, Lexus, and Land Rover of simular trim level and quality and find none to do the job as well for the price. I have yet to see a 42,000 dollar lexus pull a 3 ton trailer!