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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Wonderful SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Rbauman - February 2 - 2:00 amWhat a beautiful looking SUV, exterior and interior! Always was a Jeep man, Im so glad I made the switch! Try it, youll love it! RLB
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Stunning piece of work! - 2002 GMC Envoy
By Elphyn - February 1 - 10:00 amIve been driving only Toyota products since 1980, but I fell in love with this vehicle at first sight (at a 7 Eleven gas pump). So, not to be fooled by a pretty face, I read everything I could find on it. It seemed my American-built vehicle had finally arrivedt. I got the SLT with plenty of options (Bose system, sunroof, polished wheels, etc.) I love the look, the feel, the ride, the leather smell and the entire package. Its the best Ive ever had. I visited a few dealers before I found the exact vehicle I wanted, but none compared to Moore. Everyone, was eager to please and got me in and out in a big hurry, without trying to push anything on me I didnt want.
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Great work vehicle - 2007 GMC Envoy
By 40yearfan - January 23 - 8:02 pmI just love this car. Its like driving a Cadillac on a GMC budget. Quiet, powerful and handles like a sports car. It stops on a dime, corners better than any SUV Ive ever driven and sticks to the road like glue even on rain-slicked highways. With its high body placement, I have no problem driving on construction sites and dont have to worry about driving through a heavily rocked area or up/down a dirt embankment. My last vehicle was a 2004 Buick Rainier. This is the same GM body but it is miles ahead of the Rainier in every catagory. If you want a truck with class and comfort, this is your ride.
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LOVE MY ENVOY - 2004 GMC Envoy
By villegas - December 21 - 2:00 amI GOT MY ENVOY IN SEPTEMBER 2003. I LOVE DRIVING IT I FEEL VERY SAFE ON THE FREEWAY. I TRAVEL ALOT AND HAVE NO COMPLAINTS. WEVE ALSO WENT UP TO SEQUOIA PARK AND IT WAS GREAT WITH ALL THE TURNS. THE RIDE WAS VERY SMOOTH.
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Love my GMC Envoy..but not the gas.. - 2008 GMC Envoy
By bellasarah - December 15 - 12:44 amI love my Envoy, but want to just say that I filled it up to full just two days ago and only put 120 miles on it and am already on a half tank. I just bought this SUV and I knew that the gas wasnt that great, but at this rate I am going to be filling up probably every week just to get to work and back. If GMC came out with a hyrbid Envoy that would be awesome.
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The Pick Of The Bunch - 2007 GMC Envoy
By Matty In California - December 14 - 9:26 pmThe Envoy is great ride and good companion for the midern mom with kids. Even though it has it ups and downs.
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Awesome! - 2003 GMC Envoy
By en4rcer - December 8 - 2:00 amThis was my first SUV purchase and I am in love (or lust). I had test driven several other SUVs in its class including the Jeep Grand Cherokee. I have had no problems with the Envoy and it is a fun vehicle to drive. I am about 15 years younger than the "average" Envoy driver - and it shows when people considerably older than me compliment me on the Envoy. Great ride, loaded with features, and has what seems to be a reliable and powerful engine.
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Outstanding SUV! - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Happy in Huntsville - November 30 - 8:18 amI bought this one used a year ago. I have driven it to and from work and on long trips several times and am very pleased with everything about it. After putting 20K miles on it - I have had zero problems. I average 18 - 19 mpg work and back, 21+ on long trips and 16 pulling a bass boat. Love the power and ride!
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A-1 - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Ray/Gordon - November 21 - 10:00 amDue to the fact I live in a national forest next to a higher elevation mountain, and I can easily have snow and ice when the lower lands do not, I need 4wd. My Envoy is "peppy" and comfortable. There is plenty of room for driver, passengers, and baggage. I could easily rate my Envoy a 9.5.
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Good old "JIMMY" - 2004 GMC Envoy
By Jolly Roger - November 15 - 2:00 amIM printing about a 1996 Jimmy. I have been driving for 64 years and, in that time, have owned an awful array of vehicles. My present vehicle is a 1996 Jimmy. Without reservations, I can say it is the finest piece of machinery I have ever owned!! It has never failed me or my wife. We would like to buy another "JIMMY" but are worried that it would not match the one we own.
