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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  Lemon - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By mike288 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought in June 2001. One of the first of a new model. Bad idea... Have had many problems in the shop many times... A/C still doesnt work right. Cools great when moving but if im stopped i.e. traffic, light etc. it stops cooling. Brutal in Boston traffic in the summer! Poor quality workmanship... Does look nice though but now that its out of warranty Im getting rid of it. Oh one of the other many problems is t he mirrors they never worked right even after to new motors.. memory!

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  Great Ride - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By jj10 - November 17 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Envoy SLT rides like a real dream. So far so good. I look for excuses to go on a drive. I traded in a 1999 GMC Jimmy on this vehicle. What a difference, and I liked the Jimmy. The Envoy beats it in every category, especially that it rides smoother. Gas mileage is pitiful.

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  WE LOVE IT - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By RAY EVANS - November 13 - 2:00 am

  WE LOVE IT FUN TO DRIVE. FATHER IN LAW BOUGHT A NEW TRAILBLAZE.IT DOES NOT COMPARE.

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  dont buy this car - 1998 GMC Envoy
  By nperry - October 23 - 2:00 am

  i will never buy a gmc again replaced 1 headlight 900.00 new starter 300 new flywheel 150 new altenator 300 driver side wheel beering 300.00 new brakes and rotors 300.00 ive owned for 2 years seems like its in the shop atleast once a month for something.

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  new envoy 2004 - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By bceledon - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Good exterior looks, interior space, and accessibility. Loose steering and feels top heavy in turns. Poor gas mileage and loud, unrefined engine.

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  LOVE IT - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By POPO - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Cant say much right now. Just bought the Envoy a couple of days ago. What I can say is that so far, I LOVE IT!!! The ride is smooth, the power is there when you need it. The trim level I got is the SLE. There are two cup holders in the front and two for the rear. Mine came with onstar, which at first I really didnt care for it until I first heard how clear the onstar rep sounded. My Envoy came with the V6 Vortec engine. However, it eats up a lot of gas, but I wasnt looking for economy on fuel, so I got over that real quick. My Envoy came with running boards, a big plus with the height of the Envoy. And a power sunroof.

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  love it - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By mattyd - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I have always owned cars, this is my first SUV. I have always liked the look of the envoy, and like the GMC brand. This truck is smooth, has lots of pep, and is very comfortable. Also built very well. I love how it handles. Sure, its not the handling like Im used to (Dodge Avenger my most recent car) but for an SUV it is excellent.

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  2003 Envoy - Family of 3 - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By tgwheat - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Our family loves our Envoy. It gets great gas mileage - around 22-23 MPG. It is perfect for our 3 member family - however the backseat has its issues. The seats are too straight - cant get comfortable. The front seat is a little tight as far as arm space but over all the vehicle is a pleasure to own. The outside appearance is very sporty and impressive looking. We will always own GM products.

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  Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By 5boys - October 11 - 2:00 am

  In the 5 months I have owned this vehicle I have had to have it serviced 13 times, only once has been for an oil change. The other 12 have been service problems. I am currently still having problems with the A/C, the 4WD, and the transmission. The overall design of the vehicle is wonderful, but not worth the hassle of continual maintenance.

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  lots of shop time - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Yankee - October 9 - 2:00 am

  Within the past two years and 30,000 miles: Transmission started clunking because of a leak due to a bad seal (repaired). No 4WD due to a bad computer (replaced). No go due to a bad battery (replaced). No go due to a bad starter (replaced). Brake pulsation due to corroded rotors (all four replaced!) Roof rack came loose, door weather seals came loose. Disappointing fuel milage. Hate the front seat belts (they wont release).