2010 Chevrolet Avalanche Review

Overview

The Chevrolet Avalanche, one of the most desirable crew-cab pickups for carrying passengers and cargo, is much admired for its useful passenger accommodations, expandable cargo room, big-truck muscle, and friendly road manners. Avalanche?s unique design enables it to function as an SUV, truck or both, thanks to the exclusive Midgate. It opens to extend the cargo-carrying capability from the cargo bed's 5-foot-3-inch-long (1.6 m) length to 8 feet 2 inches (2.5 m). The rear seat must be folded to achieve maximum storage capability; with the rear seat up and the Midgate closed, Avalanche has room for up to six passengers. The 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche truck is available mainly in three trim levels - LS, LT and LTZ in front- or all-wheel drive. A pair of exterior colors is new for 2010, while all Avalanche models? radios receive a USB port. Revisions have been made to the 1LT package and a single-speed transfer case is now standard on 4WD models (a two-speed transfer case is optional). Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity, a rear camera system and side blind zone detection and head curtain side air bags highlight its standard and available technologies.

Power and performance

A 310-horsepower (326-hp with E85), 5.3-liter V-8 with an iron block, rated at 335 pounds-feet of torque (350 pounds-feet of torque E85) with a six-speed automatic transmission is standard on all Avalanche models. A properly equipped 2WD Avalanche can tow up to 8,100 pounds and the EPA-estimated fuel economy stands at 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway for 2WD versions.

Body and styling

The Avalanche has a cabin built with premium quality materials, featuring good ergonomics, and impeccable fit and finish. The Avalanche can accommodate five, but up to six people can sit comfortably when equipped with the split-bench front seat. 1LT package now includes dual-zone automatic climate control; power-adjustable pedals; remote vehicle start and heavy-duty rear locking differential and single-speed transfer case now standard on 4WD; two-speed transfer case is optional. The Avalanche LS features a stereo with a single-CD player, an auxiliary jack and satellite radio; a front 40/20/40-split bench seat with storage; cloth trim, full power accessories; composite cargo bed; a removable three-piece cargo cover; a power driver seat with manual lumbar control; an auto-dimming rearview mirror; Bluetooth; and OnStar capability. The LT1 is equipped similarly to the LS, and receives enhanced OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation; standard front bucket seats; and rear audio controls. The LT2 package includes a six-CD changer; remote vehicle start; dual-zone automatic climate control; power-adjustable pedals; and rear park assist. The top-of-the-line LTZ adds a premium Bose audio system; heated and cooled leather seats; chrome exterior accents; adaptive suspension; rain-sensing wipers; and 20-inch wheels. The higher-trim-level features are available as options for lower trims. Stand-alone options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; touch screen navigation system; an integrated rearview camera; a sunroof; power running boards; and 20-inch wheels. The Z71 Off Road Package features large color-keyed wheel flares, aggressive front fascia and chrome assist steps along with a high-capacity air cleaner; specialized springs and shock absorbers; an automatically locking rear differential; front recovery hooks; a skid plate; and upgraded 18-inch off-road tires.

Safety Features

Chevrolet has loaded the Avalanche with plenty of advanced safety features as standard equipment. They include roof-mounted side curtain airbags with rollover protection, front seat belt pretensioners, electronic stability system with rollover mitigation technology, and seat-mounted side airbags for front occupants. The OnStar with GM Advanced Crash Response (one-year plan standard, subscription required thereafter) has also been included. Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist and a rearview camera are optional.