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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  Critics Hate this vehicle... - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By DRBLUE - October 21 - 2:00 am

  The vehicle could have better mileage, and needs a redesign of the interior, esp. around the driver. I dont have much space to place sunglasses, cellphone,etc. But I like the engine power, optional choice of drives, space for a family of four, and the handling. The handling is surprisingly good, in 2WD or 4WD, esp while cornering or parking. My rear windshield wiper has been replaced, as part of a recall. No other defects were noted.

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  Envoy Denali - 2008 GMC Envoy
  By woodbine - September 10 - 1:00 pm

  I find the Envoy Denali to be a very wonderful product from GM. I recently had a 04 Trailblazer and the Envoy has a better ride style and the Denali package is excellent.

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  Great Vehicle - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By steve - September 2 - 7:11 pm

  Great little SUV. Have had no problems other than a wheel bearing at 65K. Very luxurious. Has every option under the sun and is very well built. I would buy it in a heartbeat again. The only thing I would like different is maybe a little better mileage but for an SUV thats what you get, so you live with it.

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  My Envoy - 2008 GMC Envoy
  By Smokey - August 28 - 4:53 pm

  I traded in a 2007 Chevy Silverado crew cab that got 24 to 26 miles per gallon. My Envoy gets terrible gas mileage which is a bummer. Steering is hard to get used to, my truck was much smoother. Envoy is quiet as was my truck. I guess if you want something that is quiet, smooth, and gets good mileage buy a Silverado crew cab. Costs less than the Envoy and has much more room inside.

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  I love this car - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By Gary - August 22 - 1:34 pm

  This is the 6th SUV I have owned. The others were Fords. I hesitated buying the car because of some review I read but I liked the looks of it so I bought it anyway. I have been extremely happy with the car. It drives and rides well. I have the Denali so it has about everything on it. I wouldnt call it a workhorse but in the Oregon where I live it fits the needs of the typical small family.

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  Never Thought I Would Buy A GM Car - 2008 GMC Envoy
  By Glenn - August 18 - 10:58 pm

  Never thought I would buy American let alone a GMC car. Drove the Envoy and it knocked my socks off. Im hooked. OnStar is a winner and the car is fantastic. Only problem, I understand it goes away next year. The Arcadia is the replacement and a car I would never buy.

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  My favorite vehicle - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By gigigran - August 10 - 10:31 pm

  I traded a Caddy Deville for the brand new 05 SUV and still love it after driving for 3 years. Its driven mostly around town with a few out of town trips. I am happy with the comfort, safety and style. The only disadvantage-the gas mileage of 15mpg. Other than that I can not think of any other drawbacks. It is absolutely a great vehicle to drive. If there are no big mechanical problems I plan to drive this vehicle for many many years to come.

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  2003 SLT is excellent. - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By steve - August 10 - 6:41 pm

  My wife and I just bought a used SLT we cannot believe all of the features this vehicle has. Overall comfort is outstanding. It drives like a dream.

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  Like My Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Rod - August 8 - 5:50 pm

  I have thoroughly enjoyed this mid-size SUV, my first such vehicle. I bought it because I needed to tow a fiarly heavy boat and the Envoy with its standard In-Line 6 engine and standard towing package would tow just over 6,000 pounds, and only a few hundred pounds less than choosing the optional V-8. Ive taken care of it and have driven only 10,000 miles per year, but it has rewarded me with no problems at all--not the first rattle or squeak. I beleive the style has "held up," too and even at 4.5 years it still does not look old.

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  Great SUV 2003 GMC Envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Dick - July 22 - 4:59 am

  Best vehicle Ive ever owned, it now has 135,000 miles on it. The brakes and tires have lasted more than 60,000 miles, Im on my second set of each now. The only thing Ive had to replace is the water pump at 120,000 miles, not bad at all. I get 16 to 18 mpg city and up to 24 mpg on the highway. Its a very comfortable ride and a very useful vehicle. I will buy another one when or if it finally gives up.