Envoy is GMC's representative in the family of General Motors-built SUVs that also includes versions from Buick, Chevrolet, Isuzu, and Saab. The five-passenger model is called Envoy, the longer seven-passenger edition is designated Envoy XL. The current Envoy was introduced for 2003, and our tester was an '03 XL with the 275-hp inline 6-cyl and base suspension.

We chose the 6-cyl over the available V8 because it makes up the bulk of sales. Around town, our editors found it had more than adequate power, but some said it felt taxed in highway passing situations. Everyone was pleased with the interior's roominess, its adult-friendly 3rd-row seat, and generous cargo space. Logbook gripes included the cabin's indifferent assembly quality and its abundance of budget-grade plastic panels. We also didn't like the fact that audio for the rear-seat entertainment system played only through headphones.

Our most serious criticism was of the Envoy's sloppy handling. Vague steering feel was particularly annoying, and we wished we had ordered the optional air suspension, which provides more composure and control, especially over bumps.

An antiskid system as standard equipment is Envoy's most significant change since the '03 model year. This GMC earned our Recommended rating for 2003 and 2004. As competitors made advances, however, Envoy was unable to retain that rating for 2005 and 2006.

Editors' Comments

Tom Appel: Feels substantial and tight, but lapses in quality and flaccid
handling are major drawbacks. I do prefer this truck to Navigator though, despite the $20,000 difference.

John Biel: This loaded Envoy XL delivers capability and comfort for around $40,000. Some rivals lack 3rd-row seating capability. Others, though cheaper, don't have as much room for 3rd-row passengers. Others, still, don't have as much horsepower. All things considered, the Envoy XL is well-deserving of shoppers' attention.

Jack Stewart: Longer than Tahoe, longer than a Navigator. Perhaps too big to be classified a midsize. Why not buy a Tahoe, if you want three rows of seating, and get a standard V8 in the bargain?

2003 GMC Envoy
Bodystyle:	4-door wagon
Model:	4WD XL SLT
Engine:	275-hp 4.2-liter I6
Transmission:	4-speed automatic
Total Miles:	21,677
CG Observed Fuel Economy:	15.8 mpg
Problems During Test:	A power- window motor failed at 1025 miles. At 11,000 mi., the air conditioning sometimes shut off. Both problems were repaired under warranty.
Base Price:	$36,995
Price as Tested:	$40,560
Major Options:	SLT Comfort & Convenience Package (heated front seats, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, Bose sound system, digital memo recorder, rain-sensing wipers, cargo mat, theft-deterrent system w/alarm, headlight washers), Rear-Seat Entertainment Package (DVD player, screen, headphones), running boards, side airbags