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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Unhappy driver - 2004 GMC Envoy
By MARK - May 2 - 10:53 amTrasmission lost second gear @ 30,000, on a trip to Louisiana. Dealer repaired. At 33,000 transmission failed again vehicle out of warranty. Cabin very noisy at highway speed.
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Does all things well and looks great - 2007 GMC Envoy
By John K. - April 30 - 8:52 pmWeve had mostly fords,after 10 yrs with a 97 GMC Safari AWD & no issues we decided to look at GMC. Our 96 Lincoln continental 96 was nothing but trouble & poorly built so we didnt consider Ford. We tried the new Saturn Outlook and found it to be "too large" & the cost w/options too high. We test drove the Toyota Highlander & offroad Toyota as well as the Nissan SUV. The Toyota was souless & they wouldnt negotiate. The Nissan was ok but the interior was bland. We chose the Envoy Denali because we wanted the towing capability, durability of a truck and the better fuel mileage the Denalis 8 cylinder with 4 cylinder cutout offered. We average 18 in city and 22 hywy. 1 yr later we r 100% hapy
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Professional Grade - 2006 GMC Envoy
By Rick - April 28 - 11:00 amI have owned my GMC Envoy for over 2 years now. I drive my truck usually on weekends and for road trips. I had only 3 problems so far. The first was the wiring harness going to the left tail light, the center 12 vdc adapter blew a fuse. Thirdly, my gear shifter handle became loose. This will be my last american vehicle that I will buy.
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Nice Ride - 2008 GMC Envoy
By Mrs. T - April 28 - 9:51 amI know I am not the norm, I had my previous car for 12 years. Yes, 12 years. I only had 106,000 and cried like a baby when I sold it to a friend of mine. I have looked at the Envoy since 2004 and decided this was the year to buy it. (Also the last year they are making them) I love my Silver Mist color, have had many a compliment when out driving. I have a sunroof and the nice stereo. I just put 1000 miles on it this weekend. I am kinda disapointed in the gas mileage but I guess it is to be expected with an SUV. I love the staightline 6 I have, it has a lot of get-up-and-go. So in short, love it!!!
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problems - 2004 GMC Envoy
By seva - April 28 - 2:00 amIm really scared. I bought this vehicle 2 weeks ago. The engine is not turning over until the third attempt. I left it with a GMC dealer 3 days after purchasing this car and the dealer said they could not re-create the problem. The day I picked it up it would not start until the third attempt again. Today, going 5 MPH the car just stalled out and the car following me almost rear-ended me. Please share any info if you have any similar problems!!
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Goodbye Jimmy, hello Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Marge O - April 28 - 2:00 amUnlike its predecessor, Jimmy, I find the Envoy SLT to be all I wanted it to be. Stylish, comfortable, easier flow- like ride, very quiet interior, not noisy like Jimmy. All of its interior components like On Star, XM Satellite radio,sound system, and having the availability of the controls on the wheel is absolutely fabulous. Making turns left/right is made easier to handle. Not rugged like Jimmy. Doesnt feel like Im driving a truck.
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My $5700 bargaine - 1999 GMC Envoy
By bigbux98 - April 25 - 10:05 amI paid $5700 for my Envoy, with 77,000 miles on it. It was in very good condition and so far, I have had to replace one ball joint. Other than that, it has been dead reliable. I pray I never get to see a $2000 headlight replacement.
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My favorite in the price range - 2008 GMC Envoy
By choppers70 - April 22 - 6:36 pmI drove just about everything I thought I could get off the lot in the low $20Ks. Everything felt like plastic junk. When I got in the Envoy I knew it was the one I wanted. Felt like luxury but in my price range. So far so good. Some minor issues with rattling noises that need fixed but other than that Im pretty happy with it.
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2004 GMC Envoy SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Lori - April 9 - 11:13 amLove this vehicle! It rides like a car and is big enough to make me feel safe while driving it while not be a huge gas hog. Granted, its not great, but not that bad. Love the leather and the XM radio, and the heated seats rock! So happy I went with this after looking at TrailBlazers, Equinox, Tahoes, etc.
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Good old 2004 Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Dennis - April 8 - 5:28 pmThis has been a good experience from the get go. No problems, followed GM maintenance schedule, not dealers. It is high enough that you get good visibility, comfortable ride and interior and exterior paint have held up very good. The gas mileage could be better but it gets 20mpg on a highway trip. Not great but acceptable. Around town, rural area, it gets 17-18 mpg.
