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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  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.

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  Love my Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By twilene - January 13 - 2:35 pm

  I think Envoys are the best. I will buy another one after I get out of school. The only real problem I have ever had is that if there is a bump or crack in the road and you hit it too fast the car will feel like it is out of control and the gear shifter nut always comes loose causing the car not to move. I know when it acts up just to crawl under and tighten up the screw. The dealer wanted 200 for the part and I made my own.

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  2009 4WD GMC Envoy SLT - 2009 GMC Envoy
  By RMS - January 8 - 3:38 pm

  I enjoy the upgraded cabin and seating. Controls are very ergonomic, and bluetooth is a real plus for this car. Sound system is top notch. Good acceleration and braking. 4WD is a dream. Broke the SUV in with a 2000 mile trip and initial gas mileage was 18 mpg for city/highway. GM finally got the Envoy/Trailazer right, and they discontinue it. Go figure.

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  ready to drive or tow - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By john price - November 9 - 2:28 am

  This SUV is setup for possible towing, with electrical connections at front and an air to hydraulic braking system used with motorhome with air brakes (all connections are mounted at front with towing plates mounted.)

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  GMAC Envoy SLT - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By kts - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable ride. Rides more like a car then a truck. Extremely reliable - no problems at all!

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  Envoy Road Hog in The Wind - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Dennis R. Perkins - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I just took my first real trip on my new Envoy to southern Virginia on Interstate 95 and was exceptionally pleased with everything but the mileage, it was 14 mpg. I-95 is known as a very hard drive from Washington south, sometimes with 4 lanes of big trucks and everybody is running 70+. The Envoy had plenty of road acceleration to get up and go when needed and the vehicle handled very smooth among the big trucks and speedway drivers. Very pleased, but GM has got to get me more than 14 mpg on the highway.

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  Not too bad. - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Denali - October 22 - 5:24 pm

  Ive had my Envoy for a little over a year. Definitely the perfect family car for long trips. Smoothest car Ive ever driven. Gas mileage is surprisingly decent for a V8 SUV (highest is 20+ on highway, average is 16) Definitely a smooth smooth ride but a little sluggish accelerating off the line. Stabilitrak is an amazing option in the rain. Downsides: narrow spaces between console and door and the seats. Center console is very sub par and constantly loose or breaking off entirely. Low ground clearance makes it look minivan-esque. Nav system is so so and cant listen to a CD while using it. Slow windows and moonroof when closing. Resale value is awful. Plan to keep this car for a while.

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  Not bad, not bad at all! - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Phil - October 18 - 8:37 pm

  Had been a Grand Cherokee owner for 8 years but needed something with 3 seats (which is outstanding feature) with excellent access. I never was an "off roader" so the Envoy, which is truthfully a street SUV was a good replacement. Terrific smooth, quiet ride on highway. OnStar is a great safety feature, but ditch the XM radio (too expensive). Gas is disappointing, but what do you expect. Dash features (e.g. wiper, speed controls, climate control) not logical and took long time to understand. Excellent storage, even with all seats up although front cup holders very disappointing. Have been thinking about hybrid SUV, but very unimpressive choices in the market today.

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  Too much maintenance - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Envoy Problems - October 1 - 6:47 pm

  I drive about 36,000 miles a year and my Envoy is great in all aspects as long as it is not in the shop. I had to replace an idle pulley, fan belt, fuel pump, and just recently I had to rebuild the transmission. Way too many problems for a 2 year old car with only 75000 miles on it. Other than that, the ride is very quiet, step on the gas and it seems to glide on the highway.