Chevrolet Avalanche 1500

The Chevy Avalanche Slopes onto the Scene

In 2002 the Chevrolet Avalanche was introduced as a newly designed full-size truck. Though it looks like a truck from the outside and feels like an SUV on the inside, the Avalanche is actually a hybrid between the two. All one has to do is pull down the midgate to transform the luxurious cabin into a truck with an enlarged bed. The duality of the Avalanche makes it the perfect vehicle for work, transporting heavy-duty and large items, or hauling the family around. Its excellent 18-23 mpg for the first models was one of its qualities that initially attracted buyers who were looking for great fuel efficiency amongst SUVS and trucks. The Avalanche seemed to have everything someone could want in one.

The Avalanche's Run Comes to an End

The 2002 Avalanche 1500 came as a half-ton truck with two or four-wheel drive. Trim levels were known as Base, LS, and LT. Special trim package options included an on-road package, an off-road Z71 package, and a North Face edition. The standard engine was a 5.3L V8 with 285 horsepower. Transmission was a 4-speed automatic, but the biggest attraction was the new midgate concept. By lowering the back seats and removing the window, the bed size could be increased. Another innovative feature was a built in tailgate lock to prevent thieves from stealing the tailgate.

As the Avalanche progressed, it featured quality improvements such as dual-stage airbags, climate control, adjustable pedals, and standard On Star assistance. In 2007, the Avalanche was remodeled for a second generation. It was built on the GMT900 truck platform and came as a half-ton with a 5.3L V8 with 320 horsepower or a 6.0L V8 with 366 horsepower. Trim levels came as LS, LT, and LTZ with a towing capacity for over 8,000 pounds. The truck remained as a rear-wheel drive model and removed the lower body cladding. Some improvements in this generation included side impact airbags, rear back-up assistance, and USB input. In 2009, a six-speed automatic transmission replaced the four-speed, and in 2010, the only available engine was the 5.3L. As sales declined and more buyers migrated towards light-duty trucks with enlarged crew cabins, the Avalanche withdrew into the background until it was discontinued in 2012. A black diamond version was released for 2013 in reverence of the line, which came with an interesting coffee table book when purchased new.  Though the Avalanche's tenure has ended, it will be remembered for its innovation and positive impact on the modern truck's transformation.