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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  My SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By linda lou - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Handles well, VERY comfortable ride and we desin ged interior.

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  First impressions - 2004 2wd Envoy SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By bocaratonfl - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Took delivery first week in august. All city driving so far. Avg mpg 15+. Rides and handles great. Plenty of gadgets to play with. Will take on first road trip this weekend.

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  verdict not in - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By gameface - January 26 - 2:00 am

  dont like the fact that all model dont come standard with rear defogger or power mirrors

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  Its the best car weve owned - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Happy in North Idaho - January 23 - 2:00 am

  Weve only owned this vehicle for about three months but we are extremely happy with it and would recommend it to anyone.

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  Great Vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Rahn - January 21 - 2:00 am

  My family loves this vehicle. The teenagers are always asking to take it instead of their own cars because its "cool" to their friends. The styling--both interior and exterior-- wear very well. I still look at other Envoys driving by and think how nice they look. The vehicle is very comfortable. The driving position is excellent. Long trips go by effortlessly. MPG is a little weak at about 17.5 MPG average for highway and city driving. This is a definite recommend to buy.

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  Immensely Disappointed - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By 02 Envoy Owner - January 10 - 2:00 am

  Purchased loaded SLT/4WD vehicle hoping the quality of this American made SUV would finally challenge its foreign competitors.BOY WAS I WRONG!At 20,000 miles, Continual transmission problems,shifts into neutral while driving, quite unnerving experience at highway speeds,fails to shift into reverse.Dozen visits to dealer for trans alone.Heating/air cond,control modules,actuator motors,rear dif,lifter noise,seat belts,air suspension,and electronic problems.Horrendous exterior wind noise at highway speeds.Vehicle computer fails to indicate faults.If you enjoy problems,this ones for you. BMW X5 here I come !

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  Outstanding - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By bengalbay - January 1 - 2:00 am

  This is my wifes car but I really envy her being able to drive it every day. This vehicle is a pleasure to drive and enjoy. Great ride and very quiet. We had an Expedition before and this is a big step up in comfort, handling and build quality. Everything works flawlessly. Will not go back to Ford for this type of vehicle.

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  2003 GMC Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By mah - December 27 - 2:00 am

  I am extremely pleased with the handling and performance of my Envoy. Its extremely comfortable and even though the gas mileage isnt great, its not too bad. Around town I average 18 mpg.

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  Well Built - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By JOEROCK - December 27 - 2:00 am

  I feel very lucky I guess. I got one of the very well built Envoys. I have not had one problem with this truck. It is well built and lots of fun to drive. Other than My T-Type 89 Lesabre, this is the best vehicle I ever owned. GM Rules!

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  I Love IT! - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By zenaida - December 27 - 2:00 am

  We love our suv its like driving a regular car. It is so comfortable and has enough storage room..