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2002 GMC Envoy Full Review
Date Published: 7/08/08
Also in the 2002 GMC Envoy Review:
5. 
GMC Envoy Photos

6. 
GMC Envoy Full Review

7. 
All GMC Envoys

8. 
All GMCs


2002 GMC Envoy Review
A 7-seat extended-length version joins the lineup of GMC's new upscale midsize SUV. Envoy shares its design, powertrain, and new body-on-frame platform with the '02 Chevrolet TrailBlazer and Oldsmobile Bravada. Each is a 4-dr wagon with its own styling details inside and out. TrailBlazer also gets the extended version, but Bravada does not. Compared to the GMC Jimmy it replaces, Envoy has a 6-inch longer wheelbase, 10-inch longer body, and is 5 inches wider and taller. The new Envoy XL gains 16 inches in wheelbase and overall length and comes with a 3rd-row seat that gives it 7-passenger capacity vs. 5 for the regular model. A new 270-hp inline 6 cyl with 4-speed automatic transmission is the sole powertrain. (A V8 will reportedly be an XL option for 2003.) Envoy offers rear-wheel drive with available traction control or General Motors' Autotrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Unlike Ford's '02 Explorer, GM's new SUVs do not adopt independent rear suspension. But in lieu of standard coil-spring rear suspension, Envoy offers an optional load-leveling air suspension. Standard are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags (driver's covers head and torso), and 17-inch alloy wheels. Options include a DVD rear-seat entertainment system. Envoy's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped TrailBlazers.
Competition
This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys are the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander. Both offer competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design. They lack serious off-road 4WD systems, however.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the top-selling Ford Explorer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined GMC Envoy. If you don't venture off-road too far take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300 as well.
News
On sale since spring 2001, Envoy attracted nearly 27,000 buyers through the third quarter. That's a respectable start, all told, though Chevrolet's similar TrailBlazer found more than twice as many customers for the period.

As noted elsewhere, an extended-body Envoy XL bows in early 2002 alongside an equivalent TrailBlazer. Wheelbase is stretched some 16 inches to make room for a 3rd-row seat, and rear doors are longer than the fronts for easier access to the 2nd and 3rd rows. Other details weren't available for this report, but the XL should come with the 5.3-liter V8 that's optional in regular Envoys. XL and the stretched TrailBlazer target Ford Explorer, Dodge Durango, and other midsize SUVs with available three-row seating, which the regular Envoy/TrailBlazer don't offer.

By early 2003, GMC will reportedly be selling an Envoy-based SUV/pickup, a sort of junior Chevy Avalanche with a similar "midgate" and "Convert-A-Cab" utility. Aimed at Ford's Explorer Sport Trac, this model will apparently be a GMC exclusive. So, too, a luxury Envoy wagon borrowing the Denali name from GMC's top-line full-size SUVs. This one's strictly our guess, but don't be surprised if GMC offers something like it in the near future as yet another way to distance itself from Chevy's truck lineup. Like the big Denalis, the Envoy version would have standard all-surface all-wheel drive and a full helping of comfort and convenience features, most likely lifted from the soon-to-be-discontinued Olds Bravada.
2002 GMC Envoy Road Test
Pros Cons
Passenger and cargo room Steering/handling
Towing ability Fuel economy
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
6 6 4.7

GM says the new inline-6 gives its midsize SUVs V8 power and 6-cyl fuel economy. In practice, the engine is moving over two tons of SUV, so it doesn't feel as potent as its 270-hp rating might imply, but it does provide strong acceleration off the line and from all speeds. In our tests, it felt quicker than the Ford Explorer's 210-hp V6, if not quite as strong as Explorer's 240-hp V8. Have not tested extended-length TrailBlazer EXT or Envoy XL, but they add some 400 lb to curb weight, so acceleration and fuel economy could suffer.
Fuel Economy

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
4 4 3.8

Test 4WD TrailBlazers and Envoys averaged 16.2-17.4 mpg, depending on driving conditions. By comparison, test 4WD Explorers averaged 17.1 mpg with V6, and 14.1-15.4 with V8.
Ride Quality

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
5 6 4

Firm, but absorbent enough for good comfort. Rear air suspension stays more composed than standard coil-spring setup, which can feel floaty at highway speeds.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
3 4 3.5

Trucky, despite all-new platform. Feels tippy in hard cornering. Steering is vague. Tight turning radius makes for fairly easy maneuvering in small spaces. Standard 4-wheel ABS discs have good stopping power.
Quietness

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
4 4 4

Some tire noise at highway speeds, and that's drowned out by considerable wind noise, especially from around the sunroof--even when it's closed. New engine is smooth, noticeably more-refined than previous V6.
Controls

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
7 7 6

Clear and handy. Switchgear has a smooth, quality feel, except for loose, flimsy headlamp knob. Imitation-wood trim looks conspicuously artificial, but interior materials are otherwise satisfying, more upscale than those of TrailBlazer/Bravada. Visibility good overall, though headrests and thick pillars can block aft sightlines.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
7 7 6.2

Good head and leg room, even for taller folks. Leather seats fairly comfortable and supportive. We did not have an opportunity to try cloth versions.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
6 6 5.1

Ample head and knee room for 6-footers. Generous foot clearance beneath front seat. Rear seat is comfortable and fairly supportive. Cabin wide enough for three adults with a little squeezing. Static displays of an XL revealed that 2nd-row seats tilt and slide forward to allow easier access to 3rd row, which is large enough for two adults.
Cargo Room

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
8 8 7.7

Generous. The 60/40 split folding seat is easy to operate, has automatic-folding headrests. Cabin has a good array of pockets and compartments for small items.
Value within Class

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
7 8 4.5

If you're shopping GM for a midsize SUV, we recommend the Envoy over the TrailBlazer and Bravada. The GMC version has the best interior design details, but more important, offers the rear air suspension, which firms up road manners and avoids the sloppy ride/handling feel you're stuck with on the TrailBlazer. And the demise of the Olds brand does not make the costly-to-begin-with Bravada a sound investment. Lack of curtain side airbags is a shortfall in today's SUV environment, but Envoy matches most any rival for power, and both regular and extended-length bodies are roomy relative to the competition.
Total Score

Envoy 4WD w/coil springs Envoy 4WD w/air suspension Class Average
57 60 49.5
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
37
Average Score
49
High Score
65
2002 GMC Envoy Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/17/2002
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
SLE regular length 4-door wagon, 2WD $29,575 $26,765 $625
XL SLE extended length 4-door wagon, 2WD $31,245 $28,277 $625
SLE regular length 4-door wagon, 4WD $31,800 $28,779 $625
XL SLE extended length 4-door wagon, 4WD $33,470 $30,290 $625
SLT regular length 4-door wagon, 2WD $32,190 $29,131 $625
XL SLT extended length 4-door wagon, 2WD $34,020 $30,788 $625
SLT regular length 4-door wagon, 4WD $34,415 $31,146 $625
XL SLT extended length 4-door wagon, 4WD $36,245 $32,802 $625
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
SLE/XL SLE
Powertrain
4.2-liter dohc 6-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone manual controls, rear climate controls (XL), power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, OnStar System w/one year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), cloth upholstery, front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power driver seat, center console, cupholders, second-row split folding seat, third-row seat (XL), heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, overhead console, universal garage-door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, cargo cover, remote tailgate and rear window releases, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Floormats, theft-deterrent system, rear liftgate, rear privacy glass, roof rack, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Platform hitch, 7-wire trailer harness, full-size spare tire, 245/65R17 tires, alloy wheels, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, Autotrac 2-speed transfer case .
SLT/XL SLT adds to SLE:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, driver-seat and mirror memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, steering-wheel radio and climate controls, rear climate controls, rear radio controls, rear headphone jacks, trip computer, driver-side automatic day/night and passenger-side tilt-down back-up-aid mirrors.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Outside-mirror-mounted turn-signal lights, headlight washers.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, Autotrac 2-speed transfer case.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Enhanced Preferred Equipment Group 1SB
SLE, XL SLE
$450
$387
AM/FM/cassette/CD player, 8-way power passenger seat, theft-deterrent system w/alarm
Off-Road Preferred Equipment Group w/Professional Towing1SC
4WD SLE, 4WD XL SLE
$750
$645
Locking rear differential, special axle ratio, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, skid plates, 245/65R17 on-off road tires.
Premium Preferred Equipment Group w/Professional Towing1SD
2WD SLE
$1,715
$1,475
4WD SLE
$1,540
$1,324
2WD XL SLE
$1,280
$1,101
4WD XL SLE
$1,105
$950
Enhanced Preferred Equipment Group 1SB plus traction control (2WD), locking rear differential, special axle ratio, rear load-leveling suspension, polished alloy wheels.
Enhanced Preferred Equipment Group 1SF
SLT, XL SLT
$450
$387
AM/FM/cassette/CD player, heated front seats, theft-deterrent system w/alarm.
Off-Road Preferred Equipment Group w/Professional Towing 1SG
4WD SLT, 4WD XL SLT
$1,550
$1,333
Locking rear differential, special axle ratio, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, heated front seats, theft-deterrent system w/alarm, skid plates, 245/65R17 on-off road tires.
Premium Preferred Equipment Group w/Professional Towing1SH
2WD SLT
$2,560
$2,202
4WD SLT
$2,385
$2,051
2WD XL SLT
$2,165
$1,862
4WD XL SLT
$1,990
$1,711
Locking rear differential, special axle ratio, traction control (2WD), Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, heated front seats, digital memo recorder, rain-sensing wipers, rear load-leveling suspension, polished alloy wheels.
Professional Technology Group 1SJ
2WD SLE
$3,020
$2,597
2WD XL SLE
$2,585
$2,223
4WD XL SLE
$2,410
$2,073
4WD SLE
$2,845
$2,447
Premium Preferred Equipment Group 1SD plus rear entertainment system w/DVD, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, digital memo recorder, reversible cargo mat. NA w/power sunroof.
Professional Technology Group 1SK
2WD SLT
$3,535
$3,040
4WD SLT
$3,360
$2,890
2WD XL SLT
$3,140
$2,700
4WD XL SLT
$2,965
$2,550
Premium Preferred Equipment Group 1SH plus entertainment system w/DVD, reversible cargo mat. NA w/power sunroof.
Powertrain
Traction control
2WD
$175
$151
Locking rear differential
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$270
$232
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$800
$688
Requires Preferred Equipment Group.
AM/FM/cassette/CD player
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$150
$129
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
SLT, XL SLT
$395
$340
SLE, XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT w/Preferred Equipment Group
$245
$211
SLE, XL SLE require Preferred Equipment Group.
Bose sound system
SLT, XL SLT
$495
$426
Requires Preferred Equipment Group 1SF.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Running boards
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$375
$323
Engine block heater
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$35
$30
Special paint
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$95
$82
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Rear load-leveling suspension
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$375
$323
Requires Preferred Equipment Group.
Polished alloy wheels
SLE/XL SLE, SLT/XL SLT
$395
$340
2002 GMC Envoy Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification GMC Envoy 4-door wagon GMC Envoy XL 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 113.0 129.0
Overall Length, in. 191.6 207.6
Overall Width, in. 74.7 74.7
Overall Height, in. 71.9 74.9
Curb Weight, lbs. 4600 5020
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 80.1 100.2
Standard Payload, lbs. 1150 1380
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.7 28.0
Seating Capacity 5 7
Front Head Room, in. 40.2 40.2
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 43.1 43.1
Rear Head Room, in. 39.6 39.6
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 37.1 37.5
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I6
Size, liters/cu. in. 4.2 /256
Horsepower @ rpm. 270 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 275 @ 3600
Availability Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
 
4-speed automatic 15/21
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test GMC Envoy 4-door wagon GMC Envoy XL 4-door wagon
Front Impact, Driver 3 NA
Front Impact, Passenger 3 NA
Rollover Resistance 3 NA
Side Impact, Driver 5 NA
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5 NA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 6/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance 3/36,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA
Drivewheels: 4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2002 GMC Envoy Review:
5. 
GMC Envoy Photos

6. 
GMC Envoy Full Review

7. 
All GMC Envoys

8. 
All GMCs


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