2006 GMC Envoy: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

GMC's midsize SUV gets an antiskid system for 2006. Envoy shares a basic General Motors design with the Buick Rainier, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7X. Envoy offers five-passenger and extended-length seven-passenger XL wagons. Both come in SLE, SLT, and Denali trim. All but the Denali have a 291-hp inline 6-cyl engine. Denalis use a 300-hp V8 equipped with GM's Active Fuel Management system, which saves fuel by deactivating four cylinders while cruising. All Envoys come with a 4-speed automatic transmission. They also offer rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and has low-range gearing. Joining antilock 4-wheel disc brakes as standard equipment for '06 is GM's Stabilitrak antiskid system with rollover sensors. Curtain side airbags that cover the 1st and 2nd seating rows are optional. Other options include a load-leveling suspension, power-adjustable pedals, DVD entertainment, and navigation system. Denalis stand apart with a chrome grille and other styling touches inside and out, plus extra sound insulation. This evaluation covers both Envoy and Ascender.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.

New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.