The 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is all about being BIG and being flexible. With unique "mid gate" capability, this carryover design from 2007 quickly converts from a 6 person SUV to a full size pick up truck.
Our test vehicle was the LT 2 version with two wheel drive but the list of engine/drive-train and trim levels is extensive. For instance: specify four wheel drive and the engine changes from the Vortec 5.3L V8 that delivers 320 horsepower and 340 pound feet of torque to the Flex-Fuel version of the same motor that runs on E85, a blended fuel made up of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.
All three trim levels include Chevy's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, 60/40 fold down rear seats and a complete list of standard features. It's when the buyer options up to include four wheel drive, leather interior and up-rated audio and navigation systems that the base sticker price climbs from an entry level in the mid $32,000 range for the LT1 to over $45,000 for a fully equipped LTZ model.
The heart of the Avalanche is its mid-gate design that allows you to configure your carrying capabilities in a multitude of ways. In its simplest form, cargo is stored in the covered cargo box. If objects are large or tall the cover can be fully removed, section by section. Finally, with the mid gate folded down and the window removed, the carrying capabilities are just about endless.
With a gross vehicle weight rating of 7,000 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,200 pounds the four-wheel anti lock brakes will be fully appreciated, no matter how you use your Avalanche. And considering the functionality of this vehicle the EPA estimated fuel efficiency of 14 mpg city and 20 miles per gallon highway are respectable.
If your requirements include the ability to convert from moving a large number of people to hauling a large amount of cargo in a fully protected cargo area, the 2008 Avalanche by Chevrolet could be just what you are looking for.