2009 Chevrolet Avalanche: Road Test
2009 Chevrolet Avalanche ▼
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- MSRP: $35,460 - $46,700
- Invoice: $32,801 - $43,198
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Our road test for the 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche help you decide if a 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
No opportunity to measure acceleration with the 6-speed automatic transmission. Avalanche models with the 5.3-liter V8 and previous 4-speed automatic have good around-town power, but only adequate highway passing response. There's no noticeable difference in acceleration between 2WD and 4WD models, despite the latter being heavier and having 10 less horsepower. We expect the 6-speed automatic to be little different.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 2.9 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 2WD Avalanche averaged 16.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. A 4WD version averaged 15.2 mpg with more city driving. Testing was done with the 4-speed automatic transmission. All Avalanche models use regular-grade gas, and the 5.3-liter V8 can run on E85 ethanol.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
Avalanche rides surprisingly well for a large pickup truck. It betrays its design with only mild bounding over large bumps.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
The steering has good feel, though effort is somewhat high during low-speed maneuvers. The brakes are responsive, with a short, firm pedal stroke. Avalanche, a long truck with a sizable turning radius, is a challenge to park in tight spaces.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
There's noticeable highway-speed wind rush and tire rumble, though bump noise is well-suppressed. Engine whine intrudes only in rapid acceleration.
CONTROLS
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Gauges are large and easy to read. The climate controls are mounted slightly low but are no trouble to reach. The optional navigation system absorbs, but doesn't complicate, audio functions.
DETAILS
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Avalanche's cabin is trimmed mostly with hard plastic, but many surfaces are textured, lending an upscale appearance.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.4 |
The bucket seats are supportive and provide generous room; we've not had the opportunity to evaluate an Avalanche with the available bench seat. Available power-adjustable pedals and power folding exterior running boards are a boon for shorter drivers. Rear-corner view is blocked by huge roof pillars, and the tall tail restricts vision directly aft. Rear obstacle detection and rearview camera are helpful, but the camera distorts distances, compromising its usefulness. Note that folding the rear seats to extend the cargo bed requires pushing the front seats forward several inches, compromising legroom for taller occupants.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Plenty of headroom and adequate legroom for adults. Three can fit across with some squeezing. The center position has limited toeroom but a nearly flat floor. Toe clearance is also tight under the driver's seat. The seat is comfortable and has a fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Ingress/egress is a stretch due to the high floor.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Avalanche's versatile cargo bed has locking storage compartments on its outside, plus washable plastic walls and a rubber floormat. The hard tonneau and locking tailgate make it essentially a deep, 40-cu-ft trunk. Removing the three-piece hard tonneau requires several leaps into a high-floor bed, a job best left to the nimble. Lowering the midgate is also a several-step process. The bed hosts handy fold-out tie-down hooks. With the tailgate lowered, the rearview camera focuses on the trailer hitch, easing hook-up. Interior storage is ample.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Shopping for a pickup truck primarily for passenger use? Check out the Avalanche. It offers a special blend of useful passenger accommodations, expandable cargo room, big-truck muscle, and friendly road manners.
Total Score
| 2WD LT | 4WD LT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 69 | 61.1 |
Total Score: 70
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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