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:
Showing 651 through 660 of 732.00-
Not Tippy or Numb - 2003 GMC Envoy
By hooverj - February 8 - 2:00 amAfter having spent months looking at and driving all the other major players in this class, Envoy was overall and in most areas superior. Dont know what reviewer decided "numb steering" and "tippy in the twisty", the only one close in quality and handling but with better gas mileage was 4-Runner!
-
Nice Drive but.......... - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Seadog - January 29 - 2:00 amSince purchasing our 2002 Envoy over 14 months ago, I would say it has been a pleasure to drive.The only thing I dont really care for is the computer controls on the steering wheel. BUT, the quality and break downs have been more than one would expect. I have had my Envoy in the dealership to replace the following failed items. 1. Rear air suspension 2. Front bumper brackets 3. Memory module for seats and mirrors 4. 4 wheel drive module 5. Horn I am still waiting for some more parts to come in for some of these repairs. I plan to sell or trade in my Envoy as soon as these are fixed.
-
Best SUV Ive had yet - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Bernard Gonda - January 19 - 2:00 amI have had MPVs, Blazers, and Explorers but nothing matches the ride I get from this SUV. My wife and I prefer to travel in it over our Bonneville. I have only had one problem with it. Recently the load levelers failed because the check valve on the compressor broke. This was remedied by the dealer in 4 hours.
-
Good Start - 2002 GMC Envoy
By a name - January 17 - 2:00 amThe Envoy was my choice because of comfort and ride. I owned a 1993 Ford Exporer but the 2002 Explorers had hard seats and a rough ride. Also I didnt like the 3 bucket rear seat the came out with. I was very happy with my 1993 Explorer but Ford needs to address comfort with the new Explores. My disapointments with the Envoy are, When you put the back seat down you cant but the front seat back the way I like to ride. Had rattles, and I dont like the rain sensitive windshild wipers. I also dont like the auto dimming rear view mirror. The cargo space is also smaller than the explorer was. Sound proofing is also disapointing
-
GREAT SUV - 2003 GMC Envoy
By RICHARD EDWARDS - January 16 - 2:00 amTHIS IS THE BEST SUV I THINK ON THE MARKET .FEELS BETTER THAN ANY OF THE BMWS OR OTHER CARS THAT I HAVE EVER HAD.I DROVE MANY SUV S AND BY FAR THE ENVOY WAS THE BEST
-
GREAT RIDE - 1999 GMC Envoy
By Californiazombie - January 12 - 2:00 amThis is a well built vehicle! I bought my Envoy USED (it was a lease return!), and got a fantastic price. The ride is smooth, engine powerful, and the truck handles well. Took it off road with no problems, and have the ability to switch to 4 wheel high in the rain. Sunroof, 6 way heated seats, leather, wood grain dash take it to the next level!! If you can find this truck...grab it! Its well worth it. Only improvement would be the gas milage....which is approx 15 city 18 highway. All around GREAT vehicle!
-
What Gives - 2002 GMC Envoy
By samo - January 12 - 2:00 amI purchased my 2002 GMC Envoy SLT in 11/2002. It has made over 12 visits to my local dealer in a year. My memory mirrors, never remember. My seat tried to kill me by going fully forward while I was driving. There is a constant squeak coming form the dash, exterior temperature sensor broke, rear wiper and defroster broke, I could go on. I will never, give another GM car a chance to make me bitter. $35,000 and it cant stay out of the shop for 30 days. Also, what gives with the horrible road holding performance? This thing handles like a wet pig. Honestly, I fully regret purchasing this automobile, and will probably not own it for much longer.
-
Nice Vehicle - 2002 GMC Envoy
By retiredand lovingit - January 7 - 2:00 amCar has been very reliable and gets fair gas millage. We have been on several long trips and have found the ride very comfortable, and the interior space adequate for 4 adults
-
gmc rocks - 2004 GMC Envoy
By denys - January 6 - 10:00 amvery nice suv, easy to handle, fun to drive, very soft, as economy--just like any other suv--could be better, but for its size i guess it is okay. power windows and power locks are standart, keyless entry is too, spacious trunk, nice interior design, especially if you can get it in leather
-
Go get it - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Envoyer - December 30 - 10:00 amI love it. I have had no problems with this truck. I would recommend it to all. I love driving it. It is comfortable, easy to drive, I love the way it looks, I love the inside look.
