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2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Full Review
Date Published: 5/06/08
2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Review
This reconfigurable pickup truck is redesigned for 2007 with more power and features. Avalanche is essentially a crew-cab version of Chevrolet's Suburban SUV with a folding midgate separating cab from cargo bed. Lowering the midgate extends the bed to 8.2 ft from 5.3. The half-ton 1500 model returns; the three-quarter-ton 2500 is discontinued. Avalanche seats up to six and comes in LS, LT, and LTZ models. A 320-hp 5.3-liter V8 replaces the 2002-2006 generation's 295-hp 5.3 V8. A 310-hp 5.3 that can run on ethanol-blended fuel, called E85, is a no-cost option for 2WD models and is standard on 4WDs. Optional on LT and LTZ is a 366-hp 6.0-liter V8. All engines have GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. A 4-speed automatic is the only transmission. Avalanche is available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. ABS and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors are standard. GM's Autoride load-leveling suspension is standard on LTZs, optional on LTs. LTs are also available with Chevy's Z71 Off-Road Suspension Package. Among newly available features are curtain side airbags that cover both seating rows and include rollover deployment. Also newly available: rear obstacle detection and rearview camera. Options include a navigation system and DVD entertainment.

Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicles of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty half-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider three-quarter- or one-ton models.

We have no Best Buys in this class. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Classic, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra 1500 Classic.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra.
News
Chevy's just-redesigned transformer truck should see one, maybe two, near-term changes. The first is the return of a heavy-duty "2500" or "3500" model with beefier chassis for higher payload and tow ratings. However, previous Avalanche HDs were not great sellers, so Chevy may feel new ones aren't justified.

But a hybrid powertrain should be available by 2008. The result of a GM-DaimlerChrysler-BMW collaboration, this "two-mode" system is said to use twin electric motors and a 300-volt battery pack to assist a 5.3 V8 with GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder-shutoff feature. It allows low-speed driving on either power source, and promises better overall fuel economy than conventional powertrains.
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2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Road Test
Pros Cons
Passenger and cargo room Fuel economy
Towing ability
Storage space
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 5

No opportunity to test with 6.0 V8. Acceleration with 5.3 V8 good around town, but Avalanche has only adequate highway passing power. Transmission shifts smoothly, kicks down quickly. Cylinder deactivation unnoticeable. Maximum towing capacity is 8000 lb.
Fuel Economy

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 3 2.5

Test 2WD Avalanche averaged 16.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. Test 4WD averaged 15.2 mpg with more city driving.
Ride Quality

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 7 4.4

Surprisingly supple. Mild bounding over larger bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 4 3.5

Moderate body lean in turns. Fine steering feel, though effort increases at parking speeds. Brakes responsive, with short, firm pedal stroke. Avalanche, a long truck with sizable turning radius, is a challenge to park in tight spaces.
Quietness

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 4.9

Noticeable highway-speed wind rush and tire rumble. Well-suppressed bump noise. Engine whine intrudes only in rapid acceleration.
Controls

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 6.3

Large, easy-to-read gauges. Radio and climate controls mounted low, but no trouble to reach. Navigation system absorbs, but doesn't complicate, audio controls. Wiper switch inconveniently incorporated into turn signal stalk. Cabin trimmed mostly with hard plastic, but looks upscale.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
8 8 8.3

Generous room, comfortable bucket seats; no opportunity to test with bench seat. Available power-adjustable pedals a boon to shorter drivers. Running boards aid egress for shorter folks, are a stretch-over hindrance to taller ones. Rear-corner view blocked by huge roof pillars. Tall tail restricts vision directly aft. Rear obstacle detection and rearview camera helpful, but camera distorts distances, compromising usefulness. Note that folding rear seats to extend cargo bed requires pushing front seats forward several inches, compromising leg room for taller occupants.
Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 7 5

Plenty of head room and adequate leg room for adults. Three can fit across with some squeezing. Center position has limited toe room but nearly flat floor. Toe clearance also tight under driver seat. Seat comfortable, has fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Ingress/egress a stretch due to high floor.
Cargo Room

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
5 5 5.2

Versatile cargo bed has locking storage compartments on its outside, plus washable plastic walls and rubber floormat. Hard tonneau and locking tailgate make it essentially a deep, 40-cu-ft trunk. Removing three-piece hard tonneau requires several leaps into high-floor bed, a job best left to the nimble. Lowering midgate also a several-step process. Bed hosts handy fold-out tie-down hooks. With tailgate lowered, optional rearview camera focuses on trailer hitch, easing hook-up. Ample interior storage.
Value within Class

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
7 7 6.4

Shopping for a pickup truck primarily for passenger use? Check out this Recommended pick. No other pickup offers Avalanche's blend of useful passenger accommodations, expandable cargo room, big-truck muscle, and friendly road manners.
Total Score

2WD LT w/nav. sys. 4WD LT w/nav. sys. Class Average
60 59 51.5
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks

Low Score
7
Average Score
51
High Score
64
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2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/12/2007
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
2WD LS 4-door Crew Cab $32,460 $29,701 $900
4WD LS 4-door Crew Cab $35,460 $32,446 $900
2WD LT 4-door Crew Cab $33,165 $30,346 $900
4WD LT 4-door Crew Cab $36,165 $33,091 $900
2WD LTZ 4-door Crew Cab $33,165 $30,346 $900
4WD LTZ 4-door Crew Cab $36,165 $33,091 $900
Price note: LT, LTZ require Option Pkg.
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
Model Rebate & Incentives Type Expires
Avalanche $3750 cash back or 0%-6.9% financing. Customer 06/02/08
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
LS
Powertrain
5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system w/rollover sensor, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone manual climate controls, OnStar assistance system w/one year service, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front split bench seat, 6-way power driver seat, cupholders, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, digital clock, tachometer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, intermittent wipers, cargo-box light, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, side steps, rear privacy glass, removable rear window, folding midgate, bed mat, stowable cargo cover.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
7-wire trailer harness, trailer-hitch platform, full-size spare tire, 265/70R17 tires, alloy wheels, 4WD adds: flex-fuel 5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation, 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks.
LT adds to LS:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Front bucket seats, center console.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4WD adds: flex-fuel 5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation, 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks.
LTZ adds to LT:
Powertrain
Limited-slip differential.
Safety
Curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, rear-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, heated 12-way power front seats w/lumbar adjustment, driver-seat memory, power-adjustable pedals, heated power mirrors w/turn signals and driver-side automatic day/night, remote engine start, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, rear radio controls, universal garage door opener, rain-sensing wipers w/heated washers.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Automatic shock absorber control, load-leveling suspension, 275/55R20 tires, polished alloy wheels, 4WD adds: flex-fuel 5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation, 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, front tow hooks.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
1LT Option Pkg.
LT
$0
$0
Standard equipment.
2LT Option Pkg.
LT
$2,040
$1,693
Rear-obstacle-detection system, dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, power-adjustable pedals, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, rear radio controls, remote engine start, universal garage door opener.
3LT Option Pkg.
LT
$3,450
$2,864
2LT Option Pkg. plus curtain side airbags, heated 12-way power front seats w/lumbar adjustment, driver-seat memory, driver-side automatic day/night mirror, mirror-mounted turn signals, Bose sound system.
1LZ Option Pkg.
LTZ
$6,730
$5,586
Standard equipment.
Chrome Appearance Pkg.
LTZ
$2,930
$2,432
Chrome exterior trim, tow hooks, chrome alloy wheels.
Z71 Off-Road Suspension Pkg.
LT
$1,795
$1,490
Limited-slip differential, heavy-duty air cleaner, tubular side steps, front tow hooks, skid plates, off-road suspension, 265/65R18 on/off-road tires, unique alloy wheels. Requires 2LT Option Pkg. or 3LT Option Pkg.
Autoride Suspension Pkg.
LT
$1,120
$930
Automatic shock absorber control, load-leveling suspension. Requires 6.0-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Powertrain
Flex-fuel 5.3-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation
2WD
$0
$0
6.0-liter V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation
LT, LTZ
$1,095
$909
Requires Autoride Suspension Pkg. LT requires 3LT Option Pkg.
Limited-slip differential
LS, LT
$295
$245
Special axle ratio
LS, LT, LTZ
$100
$83
Transmission-oil cooler. LS, LT require limited-slip differential.
Safety
Curtain side airbags
LS, LT
$350
$291
Rear-obstacle-detection system
LS, LT
$245
$203
Requires power-adjustable pedals.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
LT, LTZ
$2,250
$1,868
LT requires 2LT or 3LT Option Pkg.
OnStar assistance system delete
(credit)
$-200
$-166
Rearview camera
LT, LTZ
$250
$207
Requires navigation system. LT requires 2LT Option Pkg. and curtain side airbags or 3LT Option Pkg.
DVD entertainment system
LT, LTZ
$1,295
$1,075
LT requires dual-zone automatic climate controls.
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
LS, LT
$300
$249
Bose sound system
LT
$495
$411
Power sunroof
LT, LTZ
$995
$826
LT requires dual-zone automatic climate controls, universal garage door opener.
Dual-zone automatic climate controls
LT
$195
$162
NA w/front split bench seat.
Front split bench seat
LT
$0
$0
Power-adjustable pedals
LS, LT
$120
$100
Requires rear-obstacle-detection system.
Universal garage door opener
LT
$105
$87
Rain-sensing wipers
LT
$95
$79
Requires 3LT Option Pkg.
Heated washer fluid
LT
$85
$71
Requires 3LT Option Pkg.
Power-retractable running boards
LTZ
$1,195
$992
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rails
LS, LT
$195
$162
Roof rack
LS, LT, LTZ
$45
$37
LS, LT require roof rails.
Soft cargo cover
LS (credit)
$-600
$-498
Engine-block heater
LS, LT, LTZ
$50
$42
Special paint
LS, LT, LTZ
$395
$328
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Transmission-oil cooler
LS, LT, LTZ
$95
$79
Requires special axle ratio.
265/70R17 white-letter tires
LS, LT
$125
$104
275/55R20 tires
LT
$1,195
$992
Polished alloy wheels
LT
$1,795
$1,490
Includes 275/55R20 tires.
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2007 Chevrolet Avalanche Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Chevrolet Avalanche crew cab
Wheelbase, in. 130.0
Overall Length, in. 221.3
Overall Width, in. 79.1
Overall Height, in. 76.6
Curb Weight, lbs. 5478
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. --
Standard Payload, lbs. 1355
Fuel Capacity, gals. 31.5
Seating Capacity 6
Front Head Room, in. 41.1
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. 40.0
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 39.1
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  ohv V8 ohv V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 5.3 /325 6.0 /364
Horsepower @ rpm. 320 @ 5200 366 @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 340 @ 4200 380 @ 4300
Availability Standard Optional
EPA City / highway mpg
   
4-speed automatic 15/21 14/19
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 Chevrolet Avalanche crew cab
Front Impact, Driver 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5
Rollover Resistance 3
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 5/100,000 --
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 6/100,000 --
Free roadside assistance 5/100,000 --
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: Mexico
Drivewheels: 4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
Trim Level:  LT
Arrival Date:  06/08/2006
Engine:  ohv V8
Bodystyle:  crew cab
Transmission:  4-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  No
Base Price:  $32,295
Price as Tested:  $40,424
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  1642
Mileage at End of Test:  1991
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  22.66 gals.
 

Major Options:  LT2 Equipment Group (Front Row Leather Appointed Buket Seats, Second Row Leather Appointed Seats, Dual-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning, Power Adjustable Pedals, Remote Vehicle Starter, AM/FM Stereo with MP3 Compatible 6-disc CD Changer, Universal Home Remote, Rear Parking Assist) Navigation Radio, Rear Seat Entertainment System, Bose® Premium Speaker System, Head Curtain Side Airbags, Locking Rear Differential, XM Satellite Radio, Rear View Camera System, Luggage Rack Side Rails and Cross Bars

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  15.4 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Kirk Bell At not much of a premium over a Crew Cab Silverado 1500, the Avalanche is a viable alternative for regular guys who occasionally need a pickup. In fact, the Avalanche's maximum 8.2-foot bed length is longer than the Silverado crew cab's (6.5 feet max). Plus, it's pleasant to drive, though too tall for me.


Vehicle Evaluated:  2007 Chevrolet Avalanche
Trim Level:  LT
Arrival Date:  06/30/2006
Engine:  ohv V8
Bodystyle:  crew cab
Transmission:  4-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  Yes
Base Price:  $35,295
Price as Tested:  $47,730
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  2060
Mileage at End of Test:  2397
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  22.2 gals.
 

Major Options:  Avalanche LTZ Equipment Group (front leather appointed bucket seats, driver side seat w/ 12-way power, heat and memory, passenger side seat w/ 12-way power and heat, 2nd row leather appointed seats, power adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starter, AM/FM stereo with MP3 (replaces radio) head curtain side air bags, all seating rows, Bose premium speaker system, XM satellite radio – service fee extra but first three months included, locking rear differential, Autoride suspension package, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, heated washer fluid system, rain sensing wipers, universal home remote, dual-zone, automatic air conditioning, rear parking assist, outside power folding mirrors with auto dimming and trun signals, luggage rack – side rails), Navigation Radio with CD/DVD/MP3, Rear Seat Entertainment System, Power Sliding Sunroof, Rear View Camera System, Rear Axle – 4.1 Ratio, HD Aux Trans. Cooling System

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  15.18 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Tom Appel Avalanche makes a lot of sense. If you need the muscle for towing, and occasionally need eight feet of cargo bed but don't want the bulk...here's your truck. Avalanche is a serious machine that works fine for long trips and around town jaunts. Even the mileage is acceptable. The only question is, do you really need all this truck? I only ask because Honda Ridgeline will provide 80% of Avalanche's utility for 75% of the price and with 40% better fuel economy.

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