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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  Happy In California - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By bobo - November 10 - 10:59 am

  The Envoy performs very well. It is Great on handling and is roomy. The Navi and back seat radio and air conditioning only make it better.

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  Could be better - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By bellms - October 14 - 1:54 pm

  Overall, a pretty good SUV. The cabin is comfortable. Although not super quiet inside. The front seat sits a little high and the back does not tilt. The pickup on the road is decent but underpowered at times of steep incline. I definitely believe there should be a V8, but there is not. The gas mileage for the daily traffic is horrible in town. Usually 12-14 at best. Highway, impressively up to 22 at times. The Envoys center of gravity is righ at the armrest, which makes for good turning. Last but not least, not very good use of space for seating.

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  Great Car - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Pauld - August 10 - 8:44 am

  Coming from a Honda fan, I couldnt have been more surprised to how much I have grown to love this vehicle. I purchased it when you couldnt pass up the deals and I have been glad ever since. Only back to the dealer once for a very small squeak that was taken care of. Tows our travel trailer as if it wasnt there. Quiet, smooth, powerful, very comfortable, good looking. I believe GM has won me back for future consideration of cars.

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  I absolutely Recommend the Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Colombiano - August 8 - 10:00 am

  Rides great. Looks great. Fun to drive. Had two problems and dealer fixed both repairs with no problems to me. Feels and looks like it is built tough and sturdy. The gas mileage is bad. GMC states it gets 15/20, but I get only 12- 13 driving around my town and 15-16 on the expressway to work. Insurance is cheap. I feel that Onstar is too expensive. Would like to use it and the telephone , but it is cheaper to just have a cedular phone instead. GM should lower the prices for everthing related with Onstar and I am sure they would get more customers. Wind noise not that noticable.

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  A long 5 years - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Maryland - July 30 - 9:10 am

  I bought this in late 2002 new with a custom Denali grille. I had to choose between the Envoy, Acura MDX and Honda Pilot. I decided I did not want to buy that Asian rubbish and went for the Envoy. At 4500 miles I had severe engine failure. I needed a rental for four months. After that, everything was fine. On premium gas all I was got 11mpg! The interior is not that functional especially the seatbelts. Windnoise is tremendous. Ride is very comfortable though. I would not consider it a bad experience, I would gladly take this over an Asian car. I finally traded it in for a BMW X3 which is also a great car.

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  Best kept secret is the GMC Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By gaines - May 20 - 8:09 pm

  Great vehicle! Has power, comfort and safety features galore. Fuel injected v-8 can run with anybody, yet if you keep your foot out of it gets relatively good mileage. We have the SLT XL package. Its loaded with leather and all the other bells and whistles. Do yourself a favor, drive one when you get serious about looking for a quality ride.

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  2005 GMC Envoy SLE - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Lori - April 21 - 4:39 pm

  Very bad gas mileage but rides better than a car. Minor mechanical problems that can never be duplicated when taken to the dealership. Great for driving in rain. Handles well.

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  Great all around SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By WJC - April 10 - 2:00 am

  This is a great mid size SUV. Its just big enough with lots of pick up and go. Very comfortable interior.

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  Envoy XL - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By ryco - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Every happy with the extra row of seats. Easy to fold seats in all parts of the vechile. V8 makes the truck. Auto-load leveling great when towing.

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  THE LITTLE KILLERS - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By zbobgo - April 3 - 2:00 am

  THE ENVOY HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR MORE LITTLE THAN THE LAST 5 NEW VEHICILES THAT I HAVE OWNED COMBINED. GRAND AUTO IN DENVER WAS THE WORST DEALER TO HAVE BOUGHT THE ENVOY FROM. THIS PAST YEAR THE PAINT BEGAN TO PEEL ON THE FRONT BUMPER. THE DEALER THAT I HAD TAKEN IT TO FOUND THAT THE BUMPER HAD BEEN PREVIOULY DAMAGED AND GRAND AUTO ACTED AS THOUGH THERE HAD NOT BEEN ANY DAMAGE AND REFUSED TO TAKE CARE OF A POOR REPAIR JOB THAT THEY HAD DONE.