The '09 Chevrolet Avalanche is all about size and flexibility. With the unique "mid gate" capability, this carryover design from 2008 quickly converts from a 6 person SUV to a full size pick up truck.
While the first generation had standard plastic fenders, the second Gen Avalanche is a much cleaner look, borrowing heavily from its Tahoe and Suburban siblings.
Two engines are available on the Avalanche. The base engine is a 5.6-liter V8, putting out 310 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque. The available 6.0-liter V8 churns out 366 horsepower and 376 pound feet of torque. A new 6-speed automatic replaces the old 4-speed for 2009, sending power to the rear wheels or available 4-wheel-drive.
Fuel economy for the Avalanche ranges from 14 miles per gallon city, to 20 miles per gallon highway.
The Avalanche is available in base LS, LT, and LTZ trims. All three trims include Chevy's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, 60/40 split-fold rear seats and a complete list of standard features. It's when the buyer adds options such as four wheel drive, leather interior and up-rated audio and navigation systems that the base sticker price climbs.
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, its four-wheel anti lock brakes will be fully appreciated, no matter how you use your Avalanche.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is $34,960. The price of a fully loaded 4-wheel drive LTZ can reach around $58,000. The Avalanche is backed by a solid 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
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 2009 Avalanche by Chevrolet could be just what you need.