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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  A very good midsize SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By GMACK - December 11 - 12:36 am

  I have been very satisfied with it. Great comfort, easy to drive, Pros tight turning radius ,excellent power even when towing. I have found it reliabe but it has had some problems, Wiper relay replaced first 1,000 miles, and some front end problems. But GM has provided superior service on any problems. Would I buy another, absolutly,

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  Smooth Quite Ride - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By B. Lowery - December 10 - 12:05 am

  After much research I selected the Envoy SLE,enhanced package with almost every feature I could get without leather. Very quiet, smooth ride. My wife was hesitant having never driven an SUV. It was to be her vehicle. She loves it and already feels very comfortable and secure driving it. It has good visibility,a very short turning radius like a car,and she indicates it feels like it hugs the road well. Great pick up, with the 4.2L very comfortable interior with all the amenities. No squeaks,or rattles, very tight. Able to hear rear seat passengers conversation well when traveling. Plenty of leg room for rear seat passengers. Solid sounding doors when closing. Not one problem to date. Would recommend it.

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  2000 GMC Envoy - 2000 GMC Envoy
  By Mike - December 7 - 12:02 am

  The 2000 GMC Envoy has good quality throughout and a very comfortable ride. It drives more like a car than a truck. I have not had any reliability issues in the five years and over 100,000 miles that I haev owned it.

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  2005 is a good year for Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By dougp - November 30 - 12:06 pm

  Ive only had my Envoy SLT vehicle for a short time, but, am very pleased. I looked at the Explorer (small inside), 4-Runner (rough ride at lower speeds), MDX (nice but very pricey), & Trail Blazer (didnt care for). Maybe its personal preference, but, these other vehicles dont even rate in my eyes. Both luxury & performance in the Envoy are exceptional. Beyond the MDX there is no comparison between the Envoy & the others. If Edmunds feels the interior is cheap or full of plastic then they better go look again. I saw exactly the opposite with my evaluation. The ride (on roads) is very smooth and the vehicle turns quite nicely I dont off-road.

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  Never, ever again - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By vhanek - November 29 - 4:20 am

  Thanks to my cheap mentality I was looking for cheap, nice, quality SUV. I purchased used 2002 GMC Envoy with 50,000 miles on it for "only" $17,000. What a mistake! This truck has terrible wind noise around its doors. It literally souds like driving with an open window. The wipers dont work well in cold weather. The heat stops working from time to time. The engine makes unhealty noises. The memory mirrors never go back to their set positions. The heated mirror function does not work. I get a maximum of 18 mpg on the highways. This truck is vibrating at highway speeds. Ive only had it for a few months and I an already looking to sell it even if I have to lose money. If you read this review because you are considering buying one, please, think again.

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  GMC Envoy Minor Annoyances - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By driver48 - November 27 - 3:15 pm

  The electronics on the GMC Envoy are not to be trusted. I have had two warranty repairs of the electronic dashbord. The mirrors have been never been right. I have had them in five times an the "curb view" still does not work correctly.

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  Great suv , whats not to like about the GMC Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Michael Zappia - November 24 - 7:58 pm

  Its a 4.2 liter V6, has plenty of power the transmission works great , smooth shifts, very attractive , reliable, fun to drive , 4WD works great , The SLE trim model is cloth seats , FM/AM radio, power seats, OnStar, Alloy wheels, The SLt model is a step up with leather heated seats and Bose speakers, Envoy Denali has entertainment system with navigation and bose speakers and comes with a powerful 5.3L V8. I have a 2003 SLE model and it has 235,xxx miles on it and is the best car we have ever owned , its never had any issues and continues to be a great daily driver. The GMC Envoy is a great SUV to buy, you will get more for your money than any other vehicle.

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  Great Vehicle;Envoy SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Davanza - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I have no complaints. I compared it with the Toyata 4 Runner and Envoy won.4Runner is nice looking but it road more bump and the body was tinny.Its not as solid as the Envoy.Envoy rides better and hands better. I feel as if Toyoto put a truck body on a car chassi and Envoy put a truck body on a truck chassi.Im no pro but I shopped around and felt that I made the right choice with GMC.

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  WORST SUV EVER OWNED - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Anincrv - November 17 - 7:07 pm

  BEING A LONG TIME OWNER OF SUVS I find my new envoy to be the worst one yet. The front bumper cover doesnt sit straight,back to dealer 4 times in less than a month for that. It rattles and makes all kind of strange noises. It is really underpowered with that 4200 6 cyl. that feels like a 4 cylinder under my foot. It is being serviced more than it is in my garage ! all this trouble and only driven it 275 miles and owned it less than a month. I am VERY disappointed with it and my selling dealer will do nothing about it !!

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  Great Car - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By SMBloom - November 8 - 12:30 am

  I recently got an Envoy - and I love it! Its a great vehicle, drive fantastic, and drives more like a car, rather than a truck. It has a beautiful leather interior. The only negative is that it goes through gas quickly.