2002 GMC Envoy: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.