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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Recommend the new GMC Envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
By TomRector - February 15 - 2:00 amI previously had a 1996 Chevrolet Blazer and moving up to the new Envoy was a great choice for me. I considered the Dodge Durango and Land Rover Discovery. I also, looked at the TrailBlazer, just to compare before I bought the Envoy and found that the Envoy came with more standard options, for your money. So far, after having the vehicle for 3 weeks, Ive only one problem, the OnStar had to be re-programmed since OnStar could not establish a connection with my vehicle. The Envoy rides smooth and has great accelleration and power.
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nifty ride best vehical I ever owened - 2006 GMC Envoy
By Rich Streeter - February 8 - 1:55 amtried bmw mercedies the denali was and is smoother quieter and more truck than any I have driven, that is why I still have it.
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Strength, Power, Luxury, and Style!! - 2005 GMC Envoy
By George Mulder - January 23 - 11:56 amWhat a great surprise! After having a Jimmy and being bored to tears by the Ford Explorer, the Envoy is such a refreshing change. Great luxury car appointments, powerful engine, good handling, and now more stylish than the Jimmy or what is available today in other SUVs. Feels and handles like a car but gives the highup ride advantages, and though I will probably never use all the capacity can tow 2,500 lbs about 2,000 pounds more than the Explorer. Fit and finish is great, the interior is very stylish, yet sporty, love the wood trim everywhere! Thanks GMC, Ill hate letting this one go at lease end! Truly the Cadillac of Midsized SUVs!!
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Love our new Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
By Rick Hobbs - January 5 - 4:43 pmGreat comfort and reliability!
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GM does produce winners - 2005 GMC Envoy
By TNPifher - January 5 - 1:07 amThis vehicle is a Quality product with the right accessories, with excellant fit & finish. Unlike the GM of yore the product is better than the perceived quality.
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GMC Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
By Vern Rinus - December 21 - 8:41 pmA very reliable SUV. Comfortable ride, smooth handling, excellent pick-up. Excellent exterior design. Overall fantastic vehicle.
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Envoy SLT Excellent - 2005 GMC Envoy
By jan sankey - December 16 - 12:49 pmI have been driving my Envoy since August and even though it was used when I bought it, it performs and looks like a new Envoy. It is a delight to drive and the ride is fabulous. I will never buy any other brand of SUV. It is A+++
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I LOVE MY NEW ENVOY!!! - 2005 GMC Envoy
By I LOVE MY NEW TRUCK - December 13 - 3:53 amThis truck is just plain amazing. It just moves going uphill with the excellent 275hp engine. It accelerates ammazingly. The interior design is awesome, very roomy for my kids and the front passengers. I also love the bose system. My two teenage sons love the bass the speakers give out! Excellent exterior design as well and is great for storing cargo.
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Overall Great Vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Cory - December 11 - 2:10 pmI changed from a 95 Blazer to the Envoy, it was like going from night to day. I was intially dissapointed with the fuel economy, but after a 1,000 miles the engine seemed to break in and I went from 14 mpg to 17 mpg of city/Hwy driving. I have been very pleased with the vehicle.
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CONFIDENT HANDLING OF VEHICLE - 2005 GMC Envoy
By TONY FARGNOLI - December 11 - 12:34 pmMY ENVOY IS A JOY TO DRIVE,AND I FEEL AND VERY CONFIDENT WHEN IM DRIVING AND FEEL SAFE OPERATING IT. ITS A PLEASURE TO DRIVE ON MAJOR HIGHWAYS.
