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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Great Vehicle! - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Parrot Head - July 31 - 2:00 amGreat vehicle & fun to drive!
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Great SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
By Revilo - July 31 - 2:00 amThe Envoy has been ALMOST trouble free. The glovecompartment box fell out onto my wifes legs. The real pinion gear seal developed a lead at 4000 miles, but was repaired on the second visit. Handles and rides great.
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Fun Car - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Direct52 - July 30 - 10:00 amPurchased in October 2001. Have decent fuel mileage of 19mpg. Mirrors never return to the preset position and seats frequently do not. Cup holders are poorly placed and there is just not enough front seat storage. Compressor failed with 10000 miles on car. Having said all this negative stuff, the car has outstanding styling and is fun to drive. The extras (Note taking, homelink, bose stereo, etc) make it a lot of fun. All in all a good car.
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Dont Make My Mistake - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Tom Simon - July 30 - 2:00 amI like the styling & handeling of the vehicle. Quality wise, its the worst vehicle Ive owned since my 1974 Maverick. Ive had more things replaced/repaired then I have space to list in this review. GMC customer service says there sorry. Dealer says there sorry. I dont think either are as sorry as I am for buying the heap of scrap.
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Zero Defects - 2003 GMC Envoy
By Ben Meyer - July 28 - 2:00 amTraded a Mercedes ML320. It was an absolutely unreliable turd. The Envoy has given me no problem in over 30K miles. Dealer treats me better too.
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NEW ENGINE AT 3000 MILES - 2002 GMC Envoy
By PHANTASM - July 23 - 2:00 amI BOUGHT THIS ENVOY IN JULY 2001, THE DEALERSHIP HAS HAD IT IN THEIR GARAGE AS MUCH AS IT HAS BEEN IN MINE. AFTER 6 MONTHS AND 3000 MILES GM FINALLY DECIEDED TO PUT A NEW ENGINE IN AFTER FINDING 2 DEAD CYLINDERS, NOT TO MENTION THE COUNTLESS TIMES IT HAS BEEN IN FOR GAGE PROBLEMS,BUMPER,ELECTRICAL,THE DEALER HAD IT FOR 5 MONTHS WAITING FOR GM TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO! AFTER BEING A LOYAL GM FAN FOR 17 CARS, NO MORE GM. THAT WAS MY LAST ONE!!!!
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reliability? - 2002 GMC Envoy
By robdale/dlandry29 - July 21 - 2:00 amI have owned my Envoy since April 2002 and have loved the way it handled and its reliablity. My transmission began making noises a month ago and went totally out the other day leaving me stranded. It was towed to the dealership and they replaced the valve body. I have always felt safe and depended on my Envoy. Now I am considering trading it in on another type SUV all together. My dream SUV has become a potential nightmare!
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Great Luxury SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
By Daniel Garcia - July 21 - 2:00 amPlenty of room for my 3 girls and their friends. I have the 8 cyl 5300 vortec, and its got plentyof get up and go. Great comfort on long road trips. With optional entertainment in the rear rows for the kids who dont seem to have the same taste in music. Has an eye catching exterior. Very stylish. I am very pleased with my new SUV and feel comfortable that my girls are safe.
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Excellent - 2003 GMC Envoy
By wontonandrocky - July 20 - 2:00 amThe perfect SUV for the money. Its like having a luxury car, with lots of extra space for my travels.
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Love it! - 2003 GMC Envoy
By Fi - July 12 - 2:00 amI like the big feel I had a Lexus RX300 I had to get use to the truck verses car frame but now I like it better than the Lexus I still dont know about the mileage yet it is still so new I got alot of stuff but opted for cloth seats I really think they are more comfy than leather, leather is so hot in Texas. I love the stainless trim on the interior its different.I got a really good deal.
