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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WHAT WERE THEY THINKING? - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Katrina - April 29 - 2:00 amOkay, Ill admitt it. . . I didnt check the reviews first. My Mother and I both wanted to buy a Yukon but I backed down for fear of the Yukons gas millage. My Mother did purchase the Yukon. Now, I feel cheated because the Envoy burns more gas than the Yukon. Sure, the Yukon has a larger tank but the Envoy burns more gas!!!! I drive both vehicles regularly so I know this is true. I paid the same amount for my Envoy as my Mother paid for her Yukon so I REALLY feel cheated. Overall the Envoy is a great SUV to own, If you also own a gas station!! On the average I use $10 of gas per day and Im a "stay at home MOM".
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Envoy LUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By mrssmith - April 29 - 2:00 amI have had my Envoy for only a month, but I love it! I dont even mind making the payments!
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My Envoy Rocks My World! - 2004 GMC Envoy
By CallMeDrew - April 20 - 2:00 amI purchased my 04 Envoy to replace a 1998 Chevy Blazer with 154,000 miles. What a trade-up! I cant believe the difference in comfort, ride, options, and especially handling. The Envoy corners smoothly and, due to its tight turning radius, I no longer have to look for "double-wide" parking spaces. Both the front and back passenger seats get bonus points for roominess. I have been nothing short of delighted with this vehicle!
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Envoy - Great Vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
By JonRein - April 17 - 2:00 amThis vehicle is the best vehicle that we have ever owned. It has great features and good ride with plenty of power. It is loaded with options and is very luxurious.
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Good - 2003 GMC Envoy
By charlesB - April 16 - 2:00 amRides Good and Handles Great
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Power, Comfort & Fun to Drive - 2004 GMC Envoy
By erika - April 13 - 2:00 amThis SUV handles like a dream! It is super fun to drive. My first SUV and I love it. Shopped the competition and this was the best overall- power, safety, size, comfort, style, etc. Fuel economy is as is expected with 275 horsepower and TRUE towing ability. So far I love it and look forward to driving it! Handles great! Quiet like a car.
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Great SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
By danshaffer - April 12 - 2:00 amGreat SUV, fun to drive, good quality. An overall great SUV to own. Would like to keep it forever.
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Nice SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Jefferson1964 - April 11 - 2:00 amI traded in my 2003 Grand Cherokee Limited V8. Of course i was upside down, however, the incentives GM offered put me in the green due to the $8,000 off sticker. The ride is very smooth, handling is a little soft but not bad. The engine is very quiet with strong and smooth excelleration. The dash layout makes all knobs easily accessible. I wanted to trade my grand because i felt like i was being beaten up driving it as it truly was made for offroad use which i never was able to do anyway.
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gmc quality where is it? - 2004 GMC Envoy
By mrcoolaid - April 6 - 2:00 amI have the envoy for just two weeks and the computer has already gone out. Should have brought the honda polit.
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Great SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Bill and Fran - April 2 - 2:00 amThis is the most comfortable SUV I have ever driven. It handles smoothly on the highway with plenty of power when needed.
