2002-2008 GMC Envoy: Road Test

Regular-length six-cylinder models are generally unstressed, offering plenty of accelerating power for everyday driving. Passing/merging is not a problem. In the heavier XLs, towing can burden the six-cylinder, but it's otherwise adequate for most chores. The V8 does not feel dramatically more powerful in most conditions. Fuel economy wins no prizes. Test regular-length Envoys and TrailBlazers averaged 12.1 to 17.4 mpg, depending on driving conditions. A six-cylinder 4WD XL averaged 14.9 mpg, versus 15.2 to 15.7 mpg for V8 XLs. Ride comfort is affected by this GM design's solid rear axle, versus Ford's independent suspension. Regular Envoys are firm but absorbent enough for comfort. But the available rear load-leveling air suspension is more composed than the base coil-spring setup, which can wander and feel floaty at highway speeds. The XL's longer wheelbase helps smooth out bumps; but without the air suspension, these seven-seat models still "porpoise" through dips and swells. Handling is trucky, with a tippy feel in aggressive cornering. Steering feels annoying vague, but a tight turning radius makes for fairly easy close-quarters maneuvering. Standard antilock all-disc brakes deliver good stopping power, but spongy pedal action. Some tire noise is evident at highway speeds, and that's drowned out by considerable wind noise, especially from around the sunroof--even when it's closed. Six-cylinder engines cruise quietly enough, but sound gruff when cold and a touch ragged at full throttle. The XL's optional V8 is somewhat more refined. Instruments/controls are clear and handy. Switchgear has a smooth, quality feel. The Envoy's imitation-wood trim is unimpressive, but interior materials are otherwise satisfying. GMC's navigation/audio system is relatively easy to use. Even taller folks can enjoy good front head and leg room. Seats are fairly comfortable and supportive. The driver's view to front and sides is good, but obscured by headrests and roof pillars in lane changes and when backing up. Six-footers have ample second-row head and knee room, plus adequate under-seat foot space, despite an uneven floorboard. The split bench seat is comfortable, fairly supportive, and wide enough for three adults with a little squeezing. Second-row seats in the XL slide forward and tilt up for accessing the third-row seat, which is roomy enough for two adults and more comfortable than those in most midsize SUVs. Cargo space is generous in regular-size Envoys, almost cavernous in XLs. The 60/40 split rear seat folds easily, helped by automatic-folding headrests. However, rather than being flat, XL's load floor suffers three separately elevated levels with all seats folded. The liftgate's separate-opening glass is relatively high, making it difficult to load some items. No other SUV has the Envoy XUV's roof design, which provides closed-wagon security or open-to-the-sky versatility. The rear roof section powers forward to accommodate extra-tall items, and the cargo bay is plastic-lined for washing out with a hose.

Value for the Money
Lack of curtain side airbags is a minus in today's SUV market, but GM's midsizers match most rivals for pace and space. We consider Envoy a better overall value than its GM siblings. Envoy has the best interior decor, and its optional rear load-leveling air suspension avoids the sloppy ride and handling you'd be stuck with in any TrailBlazer. GM's truck-based design is a plus for towing, but these wagons aren't as sensible for everyday use as car-based SUVs.