Chevrolet Avalanche is the perfect compromise

Chevrolet's Avalanche is an interesting yet phenomenal approach of combining both sport utility and pick up truck versatility. Since it's release in 2002, the Avalanche has long been a great seller and a consumer's pick in satisfaction. Most dealers sell out of the current model year before the end of the year is up, which bodes well for future sales. For some of us that's unfamiliar with what the Chevrolet has to offer, I will take one out and do some constructive reviewing of what the 2008 Avalanche has to offer in the marketplace. That way, the buyers can decide if it's a suitable vehicle to add to the shopping list.

Riding in the 2008 Avalanche doesn't disappoint as well. Made better with a new design and better engineered parts, the newer Avalanche rides better and feels like better quality. To be completely honest, the interior design and fit and finish is among the best in the fullsize market, and it's nothing to be ignored! Driving the truck is gratifying, very smooth over bumps (revised coil over shocks) and the turning radius is super tight (uses a revised rack and pinion system). As in Honda Civic tight! Power is adequate coming from my LT1 5.3L with cylinder deactivation, but feels its weight when you start to go up hills. The 4-speed automatic is generic for this type of vehicle, but with other trucks offering five and six speeds, it would only be more beneficial if Chevrolet integrates that into future models. The Cadillac Escalade EXT already has this, and it makes a huge difference.

Problems were few and far between. Some would say that squeeks and leaks can be an issue, especially with the different construction of the body and cage construction. But the last couple years of Avalanches have been further improved to help along the long lasting durability of the truck. Prices are stout, my test mule was right at $35k for a 2WD LT1 trim. They can get very expensive right away depending on how fancy you get, and this is easy to do as there are a lot of hypnotic features buyer's would love to have. Additionally, there are plenty of one year old trade ins available, and at about half price compared to new, this would be an advantageous route to go if you're looking to save. Gas mileage in this heavy truck is terrible, if not unbearable. Even with the cylinder deactivation technology, I only managed 14 mpg with sensible driving. Not a truck's biggest achievement by no means.