2007 Chevrolet Avalanche: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.