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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  Almost perfect! - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By gmeeper - May 10 - 2:00 am

  Beautifully designed SUV with all the features anyone could possibly want. Only downside is the low fuel economy (15 city/20 highway), but than again thats true of most SUVs. I would recommend this car to everyone. Spacious and well priced!

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  Gets me anywhere in style - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Yoga skier - May 8 - 2:00 am

  I ski the Colorado Rockies & actually use this SUV for what it was intended. Skiing in the winter, getting to trail heads in the summer. Totally dependable after 2 years & 23k. performance is good considering what kind of vehicle this is. Gas milage is reasonable at 18.5 combined city/mountain, 23 highway. Very comfortable. I am very satisfied and would recommend this truck.

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  moms envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By turbomom22 - May 8 - 2:00 am

  THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE AND THE SIZE MAKE ME FEEL SAFE. THE INTERIOR SPACE IS MORE THAN AMPLE. I LIKE THE RIDE AND THE WAY IT HANDLES. OVERALL, IT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE BETTER VEHICLES IVE OWNED.

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  2004 Envoy Passes Test - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By RMc - May 8 - 2:00 am

  Nice Ride. Feels Solid. Lots of room. Gas mileage is a little disapponting.

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  Fun Ride - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By kc47 - May 8 - 2:00 am

  Very good vehicle, fun to drive, gets lots of good comments

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By mzlaz4602 - May 6 - 2:00 am

  I have nothing to say other than its an awesome SUV and I am glad that I got it!

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  Great Car - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By LHenne - May 5 - 2:00 am

  My husband works for GM, so to say the least we REALLY checked out all the midsize GM SUVs & decided on the Envoy. It has great handling. The interior is very nice. We are extremely please with the Envoy & would recommend it to anyone.

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  GMC ENVOY - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By aeflightnurse - May 3 - 2:00 am

  A joy to drive with many options available. On Star comes standard. Drives much more like a car than a truck or SUV, a quiet, smooth ride.

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  Rays SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Ray Helms - May 2 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this vehicle for two and one half years and have driven it 37000 miles. It has performed exceptionally well in every respect.I have not been disapppointed in any way.

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  Love this Envoy XL - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Marvin Ivey - May 2 - 2:00 am

  Great Vehicle! bought new in Jan 04, have 10,000 mils + already. Outstanding ride! Lots of room, (I got the XL model) very, very quiet. Comfortable, w/good features. Better fuel economy than I expected. Getting from 16 to 19mpg. Have owned numerous vehicles, and so far, I like this vehicle best of any of them. Opted for this Envoy because of potential economy with 6 cylinders, yet plenty of power with a 4.2L. Also when younger (now age 68) I drove a lot of cars & trucks with "straight sixs" and never had a bad one. The Dealer gave me a good deal w/0% financing. Overall Im a happy camper.