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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  GMC Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Michael - Denver - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I love this SUV. THe only probelm that I have had, and it does concern me, is that the vehicle has already been in the shop twice in the short time I have owned it to repair a pressure value on the air conditioning unit. Outside of that, I am very happy with my new Envoy.

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  excellent - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By b1b - September 12 - 2:00 am

  I do not like up and down adjustment on seats

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  Ready to Go - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By GeorgeTanya - September 11 - 2:00 am

  This truck is comfortable, dependable and attractive. The engine is powerful and runs cool all day at freeway speeds, even in the southwest desert region.

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  Great SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By redsoxfan2 - September 9 - 2:00 am

  After much research, went with the Envoy vs a 4 runner. Much better price, and has all the options. Love the power, and very smooth. No issues so far, Bose stereo is great. Looking forward to driving in the snow with the new 4 wheel drive. Nice SUV at a good price.

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  nice SUV - good value - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By iolguy - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Nice ride for an SUV and Ive had 5 Explorers before this car. Step up from the Chevy Trailblazer in looks and details, but essentially the same vehicle.

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  2003EnvoySLE - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By iwanicki - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Excellent power, no problems since delivery.

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  02 Envoy a nice surprise - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Steve101 - September 1 - 2:00 am

  Overall a very nice vehicle. 02 Engine warranty extended to 7yr 100,000 for specific problems.

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  For American Tastes - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By dxcruz - August 31 - 2:00 am

  If you want something tighter and more Euro.. check out the Jeep Grand Cherokee.. It handles like a sports car with a view.. Mine still looks and feels like new with over 60k miles and flawless mechanical performance. If you want something that feels like a Lexus.. check out the Acura MDX. Its about the same price as the Envoy (before GM knocks off several grand to give it away), But will most likely hold its value for a long long time. I have no idea how Honda gets so much more out of a smaller engine!

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  New Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By projo 105 - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Have only had it for 12 days, however, it is the best constructed USA built vehicle I have owned, Build quality rivals Nissan, Infinity and Toyota all of which we own.(which really surprises me). Purchased this on over a 4Runner, because for $3000 less we got the same features, more horsepower and onlt 7 ft lbs less tourque and fuel consumtion is less than Toyota and does not require premium fuel.

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  Learned the hard way on new vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By ENVOY IS A LOSS - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Kick myself for buying this expensive SUV. It looks great, is comfortable, but the service aspect is horrible. 1.5 years and 10 trips to service. GM should be paying me for my time at this point. A/C broken, Constant Rattles under, Squeeks, Parts wearing out. I didnt pay 30k + to have to deal with this...foreign suvs here I come. Dont forget. Gas tank, size of a geo metro! Cup holder, not enough and in worst possible places.