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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  Needs more cup holders - 2009 GMC Envoy
  By John - March 2 - 12:22 pm

  This vehicle only has 2 cup holders for driver and passenger. The trailblazer has 3. There is only carpet for your left foot bump out on drivers side. The trailblazer had a cover over the carpet. The drivers seat is to big. It makes it difficult to get at the pockets in the door. The front bumper is flawed. There is no foam behind the bumper. In two spots where there is a support the metal pushes against the bumper causing it to bulge out. Car was only 2 months old when this was noticed. Dealer was suppose to replace bumper but they bondod the bumper. You could see where it was bondod. I had a fit.

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  I know why they are going under - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Lola R - February 22 - 3:55 pm

  We bought this as a second vehicle last year. We only use it 3 to 4 months in a year. So when I got it out for the winter season, this year we had to start fixing it. 1st, the weather stripping is falling off the back door, 2nd the steering rack must be replaced. The suv only has 39000 miles on it. I should have know better than to buy a GMC. I also had to have the fuel gauge replaced second day we had it. Thank God it was under warrenty. Stereo speaker blew out also.

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  satisfied owner - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Les - February 22 - 3:36 pm

  The handling and operation of this car is intuitive requiring little getting used to. I have little to complain about, except for the past two summers, the AC unit would mot cool, but actually produced heat (Maximim). After shutting down for a period, the control returned to normal like something had to be reset by going back to zero on restart. Has anyone else beside me experienced this? I have not had the car to the dealer,as the original warranty has run out and it has not proven to be a continuing problem.

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  Good SUV - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Reggie - February 18 - 5:29 am

  This is my first GMC, and it is better than i expected. I owned a Nissan Pathfinder for 18 yrs and I hope this one can last like that. I am very pleased thus far.

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  Problems, Problems 2004 Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By SMosley - February 4 - 10:38 pm

  I purchased this car new and it has been nothing but problems. Every month their is some problem. The sensors are always going out. The lights has went out. Right know, another sensor has went out and know there is a crack in the gas tank. The service engine soon light stays on, for any reason. If you dont have the gas cap screwed on the right engine soon light comes on, if you leave the car running and put gas in the check engine soon light will pop on. Oh and yeah the fuel pump is going out also. I wish that I had taken out the extended warranty you will really need it. I did not think that you would considering this is suppose to be a top level vehicle. My Kia was better.

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  Love The Ride - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By Cpersons - February 4 - 3:14 pm

  Leased this vehicle for 39 months and couldnt be happier! Love the ride love the dashboard, love everything! This car never gave me a problem, the only maintenance done was oil changes and tire rotation and car ran perfectly. I had to turn in the car 2 months ago and it was one of the worst days of my life! If your looking for a reliable suv this is the one to purchase

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  Got my moneys worth - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By BeSwift - January 19 - 2:42 pm

  Bought new. Outstanding reliability. Now is 8 yrs old, has 203k. Up til now, NO major problems (starter, battery, etc). Now stuff is starting to go up, but heck, with 200k plus miles, it SHOULD! I maintain my vehicles and am looking for a low milage used replacement for it now. Best vehicle Ive owned.. Not perfect, but pretty damn good!

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  Good Experiences ? - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Angie - January 15 - 7:31 pm

  "service engine, service 4wd, change oil".......my dash looks like a lighted christmas tree and no one can find anything wrong. Door moldings falling off. Rear wiper washer broke. Knocking noise underneath. Shifts hard and clanks often. No recall for hole in gas tank or cracked gas cap compartment. Fuel mileage stinks. NEVER AGAIN. Going back to a Nissan or Toyota!

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  go for it - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By eddie - January 1 - 4:03 pm

  fourth gmc suv. great truck ride, apperance,design,reliable. Good Job Gm.

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  Why did they stop making the envoy - 2009 GMC Envoy
  By big red - December 31 - 10:08 am

  I have owned new suvs for almost 20 years. Many makes and models. The envoy is the best in its size. Where else can you find a 4x4 that will pull over 5000 pounds and still have all the creature comforts. I was driving a low mileage trail blazer when i found out they were stopping the envoy and trailblazer. I immediately started looking for a 4x4. it took almost a month before the right suv and deal came in. Why GM stopped making it is one of many reasons GM is in trouble. They felt that the Acadia was a replacement...Go drive one and you will find out how bad its visability is and lack of towing.