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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  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.

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  My 2003 Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Amy Ouellette - December 29 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love my Envoy. Wonderfully smooth drive with the most incredible turning radius Ive ever experienced. I have never been more satisfied with a vehicle.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By jaduca - December 12 - 6:09 pm

  Very smooth ride! I also test drove the Equinox Trailblazer and XTerra but the envoy had my vote from the first. Very comfortable very roomy. My dog likes it and he hates road trips. Definitely wouldnt trade it for anything else on the market.

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  Envoy Review - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By puppetkat - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I love my 2003 GMC Envoy. The only thing I would change is the fuel economy and the design of the front bumper, I dont like the big gap between the front of the vehicle and the front bumper. But other than that everything is awesome. It is very comfortable to ride in and fun to drive. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  I love my GMC Envoy Denali - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By Pat - November 7 - 12:40 am

  I purchased my GMC Envoy Denali a year ago. I looked at the Acura, Lexus and other SUVs but decided I liked the extra room the Envoy offered. It had 20,000 miles on it and it came as a pre owned certified vehicle. I LOVE it so much. Theres not one thing that I dislike about it. Im so glad that I purchased the Denali model as it offers so many outstanding upgrades, its worth every dime that I paid extra for the Denali model. I have had no problems and love everything about it. I also love the OnStar option. It provides so much for the monthly cost, I could not live without that either!!

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  Great Vehicle! Glides on the Freeway - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By hockeyatd - October 20 - 2:52 pm

  Ive been looking for an SLT Envoy for about three months, and let me tell you they are hard to find. Only had it for a week but no problems thus far. Smooth drive, feels like it glides on the freeway. Feul Economy has been less than I had hoped, only getting 14 in town, 19 on freeway thus far. Test drove many 4Runners and Trailblazers and always came back to the Envoy.

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  Jakes review - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Jake Blazsek - October 2 - 10:00 am

  The best vehicle i have ever owned. Pick-up is excellent.

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  Love My Envoy - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Jane - August 1 - 8:56 pm

  This was my first SUV and after test driving it, I was hooked. The ride is so smooth and it handles so well. Parking in tight places was very hard to get used to, and I usually park way out from where I am going to keep other people from banging it with their doors. I am very protective of it because I love it.

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  Love My Denali - 2009 GMC Envoy
  By Shay - July 21 - 11:41 am

  We had a 2007 Envoy Denali and liked it so well that when our lease was up we purchased a 2009 Envoy Denali - Cream of the crop - dependable, decent gas mileage and ride. No problems here!

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  Love it! - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Angela - July 20 - 2:03 pm

  I picked out this SUV for my husband. He had an old Chevy Blazer in high school that he really loved and missed it. The Envoy was the closest thing I could find that would suit both our needs. We test drove it and immediately fell in love with it. Drives just as smooth as the Chevy Impala we had and the engine was quiet yet powerful. Very comfortable and the interior design was exactly like the Impala as well. So we didnt have to get used to finding everything. I recommend this SUV to anyone whos looking for a powerful engine that gets great gas mileage and is reliable, comfortable, and sporty.