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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  Disappointed - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By RCNG - April 13 - 4:54 pm

  I have always wanted an SUV and when I test drove this one I loved it. Reviewed everything inside and out and was impressed with the vehicle and the price. I had minor problems that got replaced in the first year or two - seal around the doors, light switch inside, seal around license place frame all covered under warranty and with purchasing a new vehicle you have to work out the bugs. Anyways in my 5th year of owning it the idle pulley went out and now the bearings in the water pump which is very disappointing. After reading other reviews what else is going to go wrong. My next vehicle will definitely not be a GMC.

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  So far so good - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Sherry - April 8 - 9:25 am

  I bought this from the original owner, so far i love it i previously owned a equinox and the ride is so much better in this the interior is awesome and the leather seats are very comfortable, the only things i find could be improver is where the front cupholders are at and the back seat should be further back cause theres not much leg room back there.

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  Envoy great vehicle - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Milton wynne - March 28 - 6:50 pm

  Had to replace ignition switch twice and fan clutch twice and water pump once but loved to drive it

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  After 1 month some observations - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By kvilleboy - March 23 - 11:50 am

  Offers comfort, power, utility, & style. Seats are comfortable & it is easy to get into and out of. Bose sound system is great. Air suspension is very smooth & bumps are well damped. Avg 18-19 mpg. When started cold, theres a slight hesitation /flat spot on acceleration, that goes away quickly. Passenger cabin heats more quickly in morning. Quality control at GM is better than it used to be, but they still have a lot to learn.

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  Fine Fun - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Barbielowrider - March 22 - 11:38 am

  I was looking for something to replace my Grand Cherokee Ltd. I wanted all the bells and whistles, and plenty of power to boot. Believe me, I looked at EVERYTHING! I eagerly decided on this 06 Envoy Denali. The looks had me from across the lot. I test drove it, and then my husband. We were immediately impressed. Interior to die for, comfort plus.Every option I could hope for. Rides smooth as can be. So we really, really test cars. Straight aways, up and down hills, in and out of town, highway. I was so impressed by the power. Its a pavement eater! 300 HP, and switches to 4 cyl. for HWY cruising(gas saver) and can tow up to 6500 lbs. Looking for a mid-size SUV? This ones for you!!!!!

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  been a good vehicle - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Anthony - March 13 - 11:00 am

  I got my envoy around 3 yes ago and it only had one problem was the water pump but other then that it rides god and does everything thing I use it for and my 4 kids like it and hasnt let me down.

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  Love it! - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By loveit - March 13 - 1:57 am

  Love my envoy,but after 2 months of owning it the connector rod for the heating/a/c went out and needed to be fixed but that was only minor at $216. This is the most comfortable car i have owned and the fastest car, it has great pick up power and for gas mileage its really not that bad for the size of this vehicle. I would recommend it to anyone. Matter of fact i let my co-worker drive and she went out and bought one 2 weeks later.

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  This vehicle saved our lives - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By mommyof2boys - February 18 - 8:00 pm

  We bought our Envoy when I was expecting our 2nd child. I am so thankful we did. In December of this past year we were in an accident. My Envoy was totaled but we all survived. My 4 year old had to have 3 stitches above his eye and my 7 year old walked away without a scratch. I had internal bruising from the airbag. We hit at 50MPH. It was a front impact then the other car spun around hitting my 4 year old directly in his door. This vehicle crumbled, but the inside structure stayed perfectly intact. Only 1 door would open. It was a bad wreck. We knew we wanted another vehicle like this and searched until we decided on an 06 Trailblazer EXT. I pray its as good as the Envoy.

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  Not too bad - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By EnvoyOwner - February 4 - 6:24 pm

  My Envoy has treated me well. I have put it through hell and it has been treating me like its new. I do have a complaint about the wind noise from the doors and a rattling in the driver door and the back doors creek when you open them. The fuel economy isnt all too impressive either. All in all though, its been a great vehicle and is very reliable. The 4.2 Vortec is almost bulletproof!

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  I love my envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By B cahan - January 21 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my envoy for 2 1/2 years and have had no trouble at all from it so far. I would recommend this car to anyone that loves suv type vehicles. The mileage is not great but 19-20 is ok if you are expecting it and not surprised by it. The pickup and is awesome for when you step on the gas it flys.