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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  Great all around SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By licciej - June 26 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed this vehicle on long trips to New Hampshire and other New England States.

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  Built for comfort - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Tart-n-Tiny - June 24 - 2:00 am

  If you are looking for comfort this is it! I test drove and sat in every SUV in this class and found that this was by far the most comfortable for me. All of my friends like it too. It has enough power to get me where I need to go and Ive been happy with my Envoy.

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  Love It - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Armaheadon - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I bought a used Envoy. After reading reviews, I opted for the 2003 over the 2002. I really love the truck and dont have any complaints. I did get the SLT with all of the extra options. The difference between the SLE and SLT are night and day if you like comfort. I wouldnt have bought the SLE version. Its a truck..not a car-based SUV. With that in mind.. there are only positive things to say about this vehicle. Comfortable, stylish, and very roomy for its class. I average about 20mpg..which isnt great.. but I wouldnt be driving a powerful SUV if that concerned me. Over all I would reccomend the Envoy SLT.

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  2nd gm suv - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By dog2 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  i purchased this vehicle on gms supplier discount program,for 28,000 i got a sle version w/slt options ie:sunroof,diferrent ext and interior trim packages,comfortable ride,nice power,great looking suv,13 mpg in 600 miles and i am not babying it

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By H3grand - June 12 - 2:00 am

  very good handling vechicle, I like the design better than the Chevrolet which I have had several, also is more luxurious than Chevy, Love my envoy

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  My best car yet - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By mzlaz4602 - June 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive never driven a better car thats actually affordable. Its definately safe and reliable. You should at least go test drive one!

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  Great ride and a great buy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Jpavacik - June 8 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent college stundent vehicle. You can drive the distance and still have the fun of being able to take freinds and their stuff.

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  The best Ive ever owned! - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By gail22 - June 4 - 2:00 am

  Everything is great! I think it looks like a 50 thousand dollar vehicle. Everywhere I go people say they like it. It is much better than the lincoln Aviator which I tried before I bought this.

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  Refinement for under $40K - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By nick12 - June 4 - 2:00 am

  The SLT is just like a caddy inside, the leather and woodgrain is the same as an Escalade. The I-6 engine is very impressive, save your money and buy this one.

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  great - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By k9kibbles - June 1 - 2:00 am

  great vehicle, love to drive, great price, will by again, cant get enough of my envoy