I just sold my car and I want to get into a truck.. I am very strongly leaning towards a 2007 Avalanche LT at this point and while I've done plenty of research online (the vast majority of it favorable), I'd like to hear from some Avalanche owners as well Cheers!
Ranked #1 @ US News. Edit: I re-read the question and I see you have already done your research. I do not own the vehicle, but the ranking is based on "31 reviews and test drives".
The cargo bed of the Chevrolet Avalanche is much smaller than a standard half-ton pick-up. If you are looking for a safe vehicle for the family and some cargo room for a camping trip of even a week of vacation, the Chevrolet Avalanche fits the bill. However, you won't be storing your kayak back there. What is the fuel economy for the 2007 model year? Oh, E85 is not as energy efficient as gasoline which is not as energy efficient as diesel. Maintenance-wise the only comparison I can offer is: my Dodge SX 2.0 annual maintenance costs are roughly the equivalent of 4 oil and lube visits to the dealership; my girlfriend's Chevrolet Cavalier always seems to require more than an oil and lube each time it visits the dealership for regularly scheduled oil changes (4 times a year). These days I really miss my diesel fueled Dodge Ram 2500 4x4, but a Dodge SX 2.0 (Neon) is almost the same, right? RIGHT????
Well, their website states that the Avalanche can carry most ATVs... fuel economy is acceptable, considering it is a truck (rated for 20mpg hwy) You just keep telling yourself that.. I just sold my 328i to pick up either the Avalanche (..or Silverado 1500..Ford is having a major sale on this week as well to get rid of their stock, but Ford's fuel economy sucks (literally )) Somebody help me make up my mind.. please.. Avalanche or straight pick up??
naw... too much money... I'm settling for an 05 F-150 FX4 - save some money on a truck and by a quad instead
I own a 2007 Silverado, loaded, including the 5.3 with 3.42 axle, tow packagae, AFM (Active fuel management) and e-85 capability. If I had it to do over I would get the truck with the smaller 4.8 without the AFM, etc... I have averaged (according to the computer) 18.9 mpg over the 28,000 miles I have driven the truck. (I have gotten 22mpg on the highway) I don't like the AFM because it messes with my exhaust note (I have a modified dual exhaust) when dropping in and out. Unfortunately you may not be able to find a well equipped truck with the 4.8engine. Therefore I recommend getting the larger engine without the AFM. Definitely avoid the e-85 compatible engines as these use more fuel due to the different engine components. All these vehicles have way too many computer nannies. The Avalanche has a coil spring suspension and is built on the suburban platform. If you think you need a truck, get the truck. The extended cab, or dual cab, trucks have far greater utility. If I was doing it again I would just bite the bullet and get the 4 door VMax truck. Should be some great deals on those right now. You might want to check out the following forums: http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/index.php http://www.fullsizechevy.com/forums/ But, if your primary purpose is as a people hauler the Avalanche will have a more car like ride. My personal opinion is that unless you trailer/tow something, find a crossover or other vehicle, and buy a utility trailer for hauling stuff. I have owned trucks for over 25 years and have moved to a car as my daily driver. I think the trucks have gone way past what I want and everytime I see the antenna on the roof I grimace that GM couldn't have centered an antenna. I'm going to sell my 07 and find an older truck to use as a truck. I'm currently looking for a well kept SS454. Holler if you have any other questions.
