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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  Wish It would work - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Envoy_User - March 18 - 5:43 am

  When traveling over 60 mph My truck has alot of wind noise. The biggest problem I have is the ABS, Break light, and Traction Off light will come on while driving about 4 times a week. I keep hearing a rattle from the passenger side of the truck that the dealer cannot find. When the truck is running right I do enjoy the ride even though I only get between 12 and 15 miles per gallon on the high way.

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  Running into electrical problems - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By dburch - January 25 - 9:10 am

  We have had our Envoy for about 2.5 years. We started noticing electrical issues last summer. We noticed the lights dimming and blinking and one day completely dead, just a click. They towed it in and replaced the battery. We still had the blinking lights and eventually replaced the alternator after initially telling it was a normal condition? All OK untill this week when it was dead again. We had noticed blinking lights a couple weeks ago, also. The dealer had it 3 days and couldnt find anything wrong. I picked it up last night and in the dealer lot the lights went dim, also this morning. We love the way it rides but reliability? Dealer admitted theyve had lots of problems with these.

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  Envoy Piston problems??? - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By newbee envoy owner - November 10 - 9:53 am

  Just a few weeks into buying an envoy, the piston cracked and the whole engine and new style of piston had to be replaced. 2 weeks in the shop already. Anyone else had this problem? Like the truck, except the cheap fake wood grain dash.

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  Too expensive to fix - 1998 GMC Envoy
  By frank - August 4 - 2:21 pm

  My Envoy just burned up -- fuel leak. Previously had transmission problem (went dry), but it was covered out-of- warranty because the dealer had just serviced it, and they probably didnt fill it right or left the plug loose. Right headlight went out 3 years ago. Two part light, $375 per part but not sold seperately. Got a junk yard (only one of two in the country at the time) for $500 plus an hour of labor. GM did not help, dealer or corporate. When burned, the left headlight was out, not available in junkyards at the time. I also lost the third brakelight, costing ~$500 and not properly repaired.

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  2006 GMC ENVOY SLT - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By CJAvon - May 17 - 2:31 pm

  Have been driving my Envoy for three months now, had Jeep Gr.Cherokees for the last three years so thats my basis for comparison (maybe a bit unfair). The Envoy has a smoother ride but the difference in power vs the V8 Jeep is like night and day, towing my 2500 lb boat was sluggish. Head room is tight with the sun roof, only 1/2" headroom (i am 6 foot)with the seat down full. Very comfortable to sit in and visability is good. The floor mats are on the cheap side. 2nd row legroom is better than the Jeep. I get 18.7 mpg average with 85% highway driving. Considerably less expensive than the Jeep so if you can do without the towing power I would recommend it.

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  Transmission - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By brent - May 14 - 11:05 am

  I went thru 2 transmissions in one year and GMC claims there company to be professional grade. More like Fisher Price grade to me. Thank God for warranties!

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  2004 Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Jackson - March 12 - 9:40 pm

  Like the look and drive of the car. My main problem has been reliability issues. I have had the fuel injection system replaced along with issues with the air pump. Also, service four wheel drive light has come on teice and was unable to put the Envoy into 4wd. Envoy currently has 35,000 miles and I am questioning whether or not to keep it.

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  Gas Guzzler - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Mark - July 17 - 10:04 pm

  Comfortable, quiet ride quality. Strong acceleration. Leans a little too much into turns. Weak brakes, especially when towing a trailer without brakes. Rear seat is a little cramped. Interior materials are cheap, especially the center console. Limited storage within the drivers reach. Rear seat doesnt recline. This should be standand when equipped with a rear DVD entertainment system. 410 gears along with the 4200 engine are a good match. Poor gas mileage. I dont get anywhere near the 15 mpg city to 21 mpg highway as listed on the window sticker. Good stereo system, however, poor sound quality. The BOSE speakers should be standard on all Envoy trim levels.

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  Massive engine failure - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By rondagerk - May 21 - 3:11 am

  I love the way my Envoy handles, but I hate the 15 miles per gallon. I had a massive engine failure at 37,000 miles and had to have new engine put in. I would not buy another, and do not feel like I got my $38,000 worth.

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  Bad Choice - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By rcelen4hp - February 16 - 7:49 pm

  I have had nothing but trouble with this SUV. The overall design is great and the features are also attractive. Mechanically the engine & power train are respectable. The electrical is a nightmare. I have had just about everything replaced in this truck. I am on the third ignition, all of the micro switches on the tranmission and theft deterrent system have been replaced! There has been a rattle under the truck that sounds like the entire suspension is about to abandon ship but dealer has not been able to correct. The gas mileage is terrible for a six and the fuel tank way too small. Always stopping for fuel.