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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  Good for the family - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Dustin W. - November 1 - 11:48 pm

  Good reliable SUV overall. Works well for hauling the kids and getting groceries. Tows well, very happy with the 4 wheel drive system. Fuel mileage decent for mid sized SUV. Nice leather interior, easy to use instramentation. Only downfall is poorly fitted shell and bumper, lots of air noise at higher speeds, not very exciting to drive. It a great family car to get you from point A to B, but the trip between is predictible and boring.

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  Buy the Extended Waranty - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Laura - August 25 - 8:53 am

  First off this Envoy was the upgraded Denali version, which right off, was alittle more added to the price tag. I just traded this in after 3 years, and within this past year I had to have 3 tie rod ends, yes that is 3. Why do you ask, because I needed another "knuckle" replaced at 88,000. The first one was replaced at 47,000 just before my warranty ran out. The leather seats started to "wear off" at 15,000. This vehicle was in the dealership so much, they knew me by name. The dealer also never heard of replacing the knuckle, again, until they met me. I was getting about 20 mpg which isnt bad, and it never left me stranded. I just feel this truck had way too many issues for the money

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  2006 Envoy Problems - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By LArnold - July 3 - 10:17 am

  I purchased my 2006 Envoy in April, 2006. Unfortunately, I have had numerous problems to have only had this vehicle right at two years. In fact, it is at the dealership today because all the controls on the drivers side door do not work. They have to replace some switch that is costing me another $350. The gas gauge sensor messed up, and I could never tell how much gas was in my car. After much controversy, they replaced the sensor without charge. It was going to cost me $2000. Then a belt was replaced, that led to the water pump having to be replaced. It has been a lot to replace, only having my new car for 2 years, and a lot of money. I will never buy a GMC again.

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  Perplexed - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Steve - June 12 - 8:29 pm

  Ran well for 1-1/2 years until the transmission needed a $1000 repair and the catalytic converter needed replaced. Since September 05 have replaced the catalytic converter 3 times - GM says nothing is wrong - I beg to differ. The car clunks despite changing stabilizer struts. The car rocks forward to back which is a little annoying. The 4WD service light is coming on intermittently. Gas mileage is okay until the catalytic converter goes bad then drops significantly. Enough wind noise that you cant talk to the third row of seats without yelling. The engine sounds like a diesel when it is first started and the transmission isnt very smooth, especially during acceleration.

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  problems - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By seva - April 28 - 2:00 am

  Im 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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  Do not keep after 150,000 miles - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By snake - March 17 - 7:07 pm

  SUV was purchased in Aug 2003, it presently has 203000 miles 90% percent highway driving no serious problems in the first 3 1/2 years, in the last year, replaced air conditioning compressor transfer case transimission alternator front wheel bearings front differential and more.

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  Get out your checkbook - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By DLP - February 5 - 9:25 am

  Bought this vehicle as new because of the spacious interior (had third seat option) and ability to pull a boat. Luckily, I purchased and extended warranty. However, I still have a $200 deductible to pay for each repair. Thus far, I have already had to replace the radiator and water pump. The vehicle is back in the shop today for replacement of the back lift gate window hinges, and for an engine rattle. I have also had occasional problems with the "Service 4WD" coming on at random times. In addition to mechanical issues, the highway and air noise when driving is fairly annoying.

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  Great idea but poor execution - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Johnthegmclover - January 21 - 8:08 pm

  I own a 2005 XUV v8 with 121,450 miles on it. I have had to replace 11 window regulators, drivers side front, mid gate, and tail gate. Funny thing is GMC says they do not have a problem with these, what with the $450 plus replacement I guess they dont have a problem. I also had to have the suspension air bags replaced at 80,000 miles. I will never buy another GMC or recommend one. The newest problem with the car (7-16-17) is with the tailgate. I have had the swing out latch replaced twice and now it is defective again, as well as the let down latch. The dealer tells me that GM has an updated latch, and I should replace all 3 of them (the price for 1 is $470.00 dollars) , they got me again. Right now my tailgate window is down and the tailgate is held closed by a strap. Seems like the replacement parts dont last to long. Will be looking to trade in on a Dodge pickup.

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  BUYERS BEWARE - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Marc Ferguson - August 14 - 10:00 am

  The GMC Envoy is great, so we though. Our Envoy is now 11 months old with 11900 miles on it. It is NOT reliable at all. its in the shop for the second time this week for the same problem. It doesnt start, and when it does, the headlight sprayers spray by themselvs, the clock resets and the engine was roaring and the car would NOT accelerate. Decreased Engine power light comes on and we can NOT drive it at all. The electronic mirrors that adjust to your driver settings never work, the door locks have broken several times, and the suspension is pretty bad at times. Overall, the car is VERY unreliable

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  Ready to sell - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By adam - June 30 - 8:49 am

  This is my second Envoy, my first was a 2002. It had massive engine problems at 2000 miles and after I totaled it from hitting a deer, I got a new one. I primarily got it for the high comfort great looks. It has little problems that make it spend days at the shop. It has also lost most of its value over the 5 months Ive owned it. I would not buy another but I would rather buy an American car rather than some Honda or Toyota.