#1

in Sport Utility Trucks

Based on analysis of 43 Avalanche reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $35,725 - $48,865
Invoice: $33,046 - $45,200
MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:8.5
Performance:7.8
Exterior:7.9
Interior:7.6
Safety:NA
Reliability:NA
Pros and Cons
  • Folding rear midgate
  • Sharp exterior design
  • Excellent crash test scores and safety equipment
  • Poor fuel economy, even with fuel-saving engine technology
  • Expensive sticker price relative to competition

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Chevrolet Avalanche - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche ranks 1 out of 5 Sport Utility Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 43 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Avalanche, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Avalanche is Chevy's four-door, five-seat sport utility truck. The Avalanche is an exceptionally functional hauler and tower as well as a surprisingly smooth highway cruiser.

Stuck somewhere between an SUV and a truck, the Avalanche is a good choice for people who do moderate hauling or towing, but still want a comfortable interior with plenty of seating. The Avalanche has a folding rear midgate and removable rear window, which extends the truck bed into the back seat area. Because the Avalanche is so multi-functional, most reviewers are positive about it.

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If you're not sure if the Avalanche is right for you, check out other SUTs like the Honda Ridgeline. While the Ridgeline isn't quite as rugged as the Avalanche, it offers a more car-like interior as well as performance that some reviewers say better for daily driving. However, the Ridgeline's maximum tow rating is about 3,000 pounds less than the Avalanche's and the Ridgeline doesn't have the foldable midgate. The Ridgeline is about $7,000 cheaper than the Avalanche.

The Avalanche was introduced in 2001 and redesigned in 2007. For 2010, the Avalanche gets a few new features. A USB port is now standard; it allows buyers to play stored audio files through the Avalanche's stereo and charge some handheld devices. A single speed transfer case is now standard on four-wheel drive Avalanches, and the 1LT package now adds dual zone climate control, remote start, adjustable pedals and a heavy-duty locking read differential. The former top-of -the-line 6.0 liter V8 engine is no longer available, but a six-speed automatic transmission is now standard.

  • "A blend of full-size pickup and SUV, the Avalanche delivers exceptional versatility. Unique to GM, the innovative Midgate feature provides a pass-through between the rear cabin and the short cargo box, increasing capacity. It's a civilized ride that's not afraid of hard work." -- Car and Driver
  • "The truck has the right combination of attributes -- power, space, towing capacity, and off-road ability -- for people who sometimes want room for six people, but also have towing and cargo-carrying needs." -- Truck Trend
  • "Shopping for a pickup truck primarily for passenger use? Check out the Avalanche. It offers a special blend of useful passenger accommodations, expandable cargo room, big-truck muscle, and friendly road manners." -- Consumer Guide

 

Avalanche Performance - 7.8 (Good)

The Avalanche's performance is good but not notable among its peers. A stiffer frame and new suspension and steering systems, acquired during a 2007 redesign, help deliver a level of refinement for the truck. Still, Autobytel complains, "Aside from its power and competency as a truck, the Avalanche offers poor handling, a ponderous ride, and a genuine thirst for fuel." Read More

Avalanche Exterior - 7.9 (Good)

Reviewers are pleased with the Avalanche's looks since it underwent a redesign in 2007. Car and Driver says the redesigned Avalanche "is as handsome as the old one was garish." Read More

Avalanche Interior - 7.6 (Good)

The 2010 Avalanche's cabin offers comfortable seating and plenty of storage, even if it isn't as luxurious as some competitors'.   Read More

Avalanche Safety - NA

The 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche does very well in federal government crash tests. Read More

Avalanche Reliability - NA

Chevy provides a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty for the Avalanche. Read More

Review Last Updated: 10/13/09