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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2010 Chevrolet Avalanche

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Chevrolet Avalanche

Overview

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2010 Chevrolet Avalanche Review

By KBB.com Editors

First introduced for 2002, the Avalanche combined a full-size SUV body with a pickup truck's cargo bed. The second generation launched in 2007 continues for 2010 with a few minor improvements. The Chevrolet Avalanche is built on GM's full-size SUV platform, which is also used for the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL, and it offers gasoline as well as Flex-Fuel (E85) capability. A refined small-block 5.3-liter V8 engine is standard, but the optional 6.0-liter V8 is no longer on the table. Three trim levels are offered: LS, LT, and LTZ (with the LT level further divided into LT1, LT2 and LT3) and with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you regularly pull a boat or trailer and also need the cargo capabilities of a pickup truck, along with abundant passenger space and comfort, remember that a properly-equipped Avalanche can tow up to 8,100 pounds. With its versatile Midgate configuration, the 2010 Avalanche can be set up to carry long loads (including four-by-eight-foot plywood sheets) or, with rear seatbacks raised, to hold a full complement of passengers.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If gas mileage is a major concern, you might be better off with a different sort of vehicle, because the Avalanche is not frugal, even with the Active Fuel Management System. Piloting an Avalanche through crowded urban streets is no picnic because of the vehicle's bulk, though maneuverability is better than some might expect.

What's New for 2010

For 2010, the Avalanche gains a center console mounted USB port, a new single speed transfer case (a two speed unit is optional) and more standard equipment added to the 1LT package.

Driving the Avalanche

Driving Impressions Compared to the first-generation Avalanche, the 2010 model has an impressive level of refinement. On good roads the suspension absorbs most imperfections, delivering an almost cushiony ride but not at...

the expense of control or security, and the Avalanche takes curves with a high level of stability. Acceleration is more rapid than it may feel, because power flow is so smooth. The automatic transmission shifts in an easy and positive manner, with a brief delay for acceleration to pass or merge. Steering is on the light side, but not effortless, and the vehicle has an impressively tight turning circle.

Favorite Features

Active Fuel Management System
Chevrolet is by no means alone in offering cylinder deactivation, but it's a welcome addition to these heavyweight vehicles, which are known for consuming substantial quantities of gasoline.

Midgate Configuration
True pickup-truck fans might shun the Avalanche's relatively short cargo bed and SUV foundation, but the Midgate gives it a degree of versatility that's absent from traditional pickups.

2010 Chevrolet Avalanche Details

Interior

With its Midgate closed, the 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche can seat up to six passengers. Folding down the rear seat yields the greatest cargo-hauling capacity. Compared to the first-generation Avalanche, the 2010 model provides better passenger space via a lower instrument panel and deeper windshield. Front-row seats have gained an inch of rearward travel. On LT and LTZ trims, a monster console separates front-seat occupants, who have a remarkably generous amount of space. The rear seat folds flat, rear-seat occupants enjoy more shoulder space and three fit easily, though the center position is a bit hard. Seatbacks are somewhat firm, but deliver above-average comfort. Gauges are easy to read at a glance.

Exterior

As with the original, the 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche's Midgate opens to extend cargo-bed length from 5.3 feet to 8.2 feet. With improved aerodynamics and a strengthened chassis, the monochromatic exterior features wraparound fascias that eliminate bumper-to-body gaps. Storage compartments alongside the cargo box include drains and provide lockable space and a three-piece rigid cargo cover with interlocking panels is available. A sleek windshield angle extends into a smooth roofline, the front air dam is low and wide and prominent fenders with integrated wheel flares complement the bulging power-dome hood. A wide front and rear track enhance stability.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In base LS trim, the Avalanche includes remote keyless entry, heated power mirrors, a cloth-upholstered 40/20/40 split-bench front seat with power on both the driver's and passenger's sides, side steps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear privacy glass, the StabiliTrak stability-enhancement system, head curtain side-impact airbags and 17-inch tires on five-spoke aluminum wheels. GM's Autoride suspension, with real-time damping for reduced body motion, is standard on the LTZ, as is a limited-slip differential and 20-inch wheels and tires. The LTZ and various levels of the LT group also include remote engine starting, rear obstacle detection, leather upholstery and power-adjustable pedals. All versions of the Avalanche include GM's OnStar.

Optional Equipment

The Z71 Off-Road Package includes 18-inch wheels, the Z71 suspension, tubular assist steps, locking rear differential and a skid-plate package. Available articulated running boards automatically move downward and outward as the doors are opened. Individual options, depending upon trim level, include Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, a rearview camera system, navigation system, DVD backseat entertainment system with an eight-inch screen, XM Satellite Radio with real time traffic assist for navigation equipped models and 20-inch wheels.

Under the Hood

The standard engine is a Vortec 5.3-liter V8, matched to a four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission. Four-wheel-drive models use a version which can operate on E85 or gasoline. Under certain conditions, Active Fuel Management Technology lets the engine run on four cylinders to save fuel.

5.3-liter V8
310 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
335 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/20 (2WD, gas)

5.3-liter V8 Flex-Fuel (aluminum block)
326 horsepower @ 5300 rpm
350 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/20 (2WD, gas), 10/15 (2WD, E85), 14/19 (4WD, gas), 11/14 (4WD, E85)

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2010 Chevrolet Avalanche Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.3

Out of 10

Based on 316 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.2/10

Quality

9.4/10
Reliability

9.5/10

Performance

9.5/10
Comfort

9.6/10

Styling

9.6/10

I have loved this truck from day one.

By Christin (NM) on Tuesday, July 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 173,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: Not Rated
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "can lock up bed , fold downbetween bed and cab,"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Great for camping. Even with 2 large labs. This is a great pick up. Love being able to have bed locked up. Love the fold down between cab and bed. Really Dependable"

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Great package for the price.

By HenryT (FL) on Monday, July 29, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Car ride + Truck cargo + Full Size SUV space."

Cons: "Chevy decided to interrupt production..."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Comfortable, reliable, sophisticated, V8 performance with occasional (depending on how hard you press the right pedal...) V4 economy. Lots of cargo space, versatility AND comfort in the same package. Car like riding in a smooth and stable platform. Never had a Avalanche before, but will certainly miss this one when time comes. Getting 15.3MPG City from a 5.3L V8, while the Econocars get 30+ MPG from an engine that has 1/2 of cylinder count and 33% of the engine displacement, seems a very good performance to me. Not mentioning internal space and towing..."

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2007 Avalanche

By GregC (NC) on Sunday, June 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 103,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I purchase my 2007 Avalanche brand new. It's a great truck for family or working. A lot of room for your everyday needs and more"

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My 4th Avalanche

By jenrick (OH) on Wednesday, June 26, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great vehicle to drive."

Cons: "none"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"2013 is my 4th Avalanche 2002, 2005, 2007, 2013 and each one has been better than the last. I would have kept my 2007 but I found out that 2013 is the last year that Chevrolet is making it so I had to have a new one. It is a great Truck, looks great interior and exterior and runs smooth. Just returned from vacation and average 21.8 mpg."

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great truck

By bob (MO) on Monday, May 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 88,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"nice to look at and a nice ride. Hauls 12 foot lumber ALL in side out of the weather. Hauls 4x8 sheets with no problems."

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Very Nice

By rhino (CO) on Friday, May 03, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 75,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, safe in bad weather, durable"

Cons: "A little bit of wasted space for the front seating"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"This should be last vehicle and I will keep it as long as I can. A big ride, comfortable, durable, and versatile when needed. I have the Z71 package and its everything I need and want. Drives like a car and works like a big chevy truck."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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See all 316 reviews