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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 Editorial Staff

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 305 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.2/10

Quality

9.4/10
Reliability

9.5/10

Performance

9.4/10
Comfort

9.6/10

Styling

9.6/10

Amazing truck

By FL Mike (FL) on Friday, February 22, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 89,000

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: "looks amazing, smooth ride, cheaper than a Caddy"

Cons: "gas, doesnt fit in garage"

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

"I currently own a GTO so I needed a second vehicle for me to be able to do my daily functions. I bought the 2007 avalanche LTZ fully loaded and havnt regretted it since. The truck is an amazing vehicle allowing me to utilize a 8.2ft bed when necessary which comes in handy for smaller moves and the option to leave the locking bed covered always comes in handy. I threw some offroad wheels and tires on there and now there is no terrain I cant cover...Not to mention is rides as smooth as a Cadillac on the streets. Chevy not producing anymore? Ill be holding onto mine for many years to come."

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Second Avalanche - Just Beautiful

By BeachBoy (NJ) on Sunday, February 17, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,000

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: 8/10

Pros: "So Comfortable"

Cons: "Headroom in sunroof models not great for tall guys"

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

"My partner's 2002 Avalanche was incredible. We have a BMW and an Infiniti but when I travelled to Virginia to visit my family, I always took the Avalanche. After 160,000 miles, the transmission was shot. We were planning on getting a Tahoe but my partner was upset because he loved his Avalanche, so since it was the last production year, we decided to get one. My sister paid $10,000 more for her new Tahoe than I paid for my Avalanche and the only difference is that my truck looks more stunning than hers. The only drawback...I'm 6'5" and with the sunroof, my head is hitting the roof. But otherwise, it's pure luxury. Chevy, why are you discontinuing this? Had to go to three dealers before I could find one in stock!"

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