The Chevy Avalanche successfully combines the hauling capacity of a long-bed pickup with the comfort of a five-passenger SUV. We found it an innovative, well-designed vehicle, impressively executed.
Avalanche switches roles via its ingenious Midgate, a removable rear bulkhead between the passenger compartment and the pickup bed. Along with a hard, tonneau-like bed cover, the Midgate allows the Avalanche to be configured as a Tahoe-sized sport utility with a five-foot pickup bed and comfortable, five-passenger seating. But fold down the rear seats and open the Midgate, and it's a pickup with an enclosed eight-foot bed, capable of securing valuable gear from thieves or shielding drywall from weather. Remove the rear glass and the tonneau panels and it's capable of hauling an ATV.
Versatility is what makes the Avalanche so desirable. It also offers an 8,000-pound towing capacity, making it an excellent choice for pulling an enclosed car trailer or a fairly big boat. It's as long as a Chevy Suburban and can haul a lot of stuff, with payloads over 1,400 pounds and a bed designed for abuse.
Avalanche was launched for the 2002 model year. It was redesigned and re-engineered for 2007, and there are no major changes for 2008.
As good as the first generation was, the revised version is better, with vastly superior driving dynamics, including an improved ride and taut handling. The previous-generation Avalanche handled impressively well for a Suburban-sized truck, but this new one handles much better.
The cabin is nice. It has a more car-like look and feel than on pre-2007 models, with a classier dash and more comfortable seats. Combined with better-integrated driver-assist and entertainment features, the creature comfort upgrades were as welcome as the modernized mechanicals. Also, the Midgate, removable rear window, tonneau covers and other features now snap together even better than before, and everything appears to be of high quality. The Avalanche is well-designed throughout, with impressive attention to detail.
For 2008, side curtain airbags are now standard on all models. XM satellite radio is also standard. 2008 models get a few interior detail changes, including more storage space designed into the standard 40/20/40 split bench front seat, brighter pointers in the instruments, and more woodgrain trim in the LTZ.
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