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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  ok... - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By er - April 7 - 2:00 am

  wow this vehicle had the horsepower of a yukon and the size of a honda it was great and fantastic i coulndt believe this vehicles preformence but i think the milege is horrible

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  GMC Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By sweigand - April 6 - 3:00 am

  The 2003 GMC Envoy is an insuperior product and value in comparison to the competition. The engine has large amounts of vibrations that come through the foot pedals and give your feet a tingling sensation. GMC claims this to fall within specification on the Envoy and cannot eliminate the vibration. The fit and finish on the vehicle is also poor. The average MPG I have been getting with the truck is 14 to 15 MPG which GMC also claims to be within specification. I would highly recommend checking out alternatives to the GMC Envoy when purchasing this class of vehicle.

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  GREAT TRUCK/SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By LRLUV2US - April 5 - 2:00 am

  I CAN TELL YOU SO FAR SO GREAT!!!!! :) I LOVE THE WAY MY NEW ENVOY DRIVES I BOUGHT IT A YEAR OLD AND THE PERSON WHO OWNED IT BEFORE ME TOOK CARE OF IT LIKE A BABY.... AND THE DVD/TV IS A GOD SEND WITH KIDS!!!:) THIS CAR IS GREA AND I HAVE BEEN HAPPY WITH IT..

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  I love my Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By MIkeOrangeman - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Unquestionably the best new vehicle Ive owned. The Envoy has ample power and great maneuverability. Id put this vehicle up against anything a competitor has to offer. Its very solidly built and Im very pleased with it. Bravo GMC!

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  Good SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By GAD - April 3 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is Comfortable with the leather option. Ride is good and interior quiet for an SUV on a truck frame. The Handling is good and doesnt feel like it will roolover in turns like its sister the Trailerbazer.

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  02 Envoy SLT - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By dane - March 30 - 2:00 am

  Great truck, most riders compare it to the MB and BMW X5.

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  Not bad! - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Andrew_jad - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Its my first SUV and overall, I like it. GM could make few improvements with better quality interior components such as seats and plastic all over. A better and tightly-fit exterior parts (uneven edges and wide gaps) would make it nicer. Experienced rattling/roving noise after using 2/4WD switch. Dealer couldnt figure out.. happens on and off..

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  I love my Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By teacher - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I am very impressed with my Envoy.....We took it on a trip the week after we got it and had no trouble at all....My husband nneded loud music to stay awake, beside it is so smooth and quiet.....

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  I LOVE MY ENVOY - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By mary justice - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I had a minivan-Pontiac Montana and Olds Silhouette which I liked but after 5 years, needed a change. I looked around and when I saw the Envoy SLT- extended 7 passenger SUV- I fell in love with it. I have had it about a month now and havent had a complaint yet. I feel great driving it- its a beautiful looking car- great pick-up speed and very comfortable riding. It amazes me that people buy foreign cars when we have something as nice as this car, which i believe stands up to any of the other cars in value, performance and beauty. Thumbs up and cheers to the Envoy and G.M. Thanks for letting me voice my opinion. Mary Justice

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  7 months later and still happy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By TLCollins - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the SLT with all of the bells and whistles. 15,000 miles later, and I am still whistling! I have extremely satisfied with my Envoy. The only repairs (other than routine) were to replace the pump in the load leveling suspension. The bad pump was replaced in a day, and I was on my way. Smooth ride, expected fuel mileage, lots of extras....looks great!