2011 Chevrolet Avalanche

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.

With its Midgate closed, the 2011 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 2011 model provides better passenger space via a lower instrument panel and deeper windshield. 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 generous shoulder space and three fit easily, though the center position is a bit snug. Seatbacks are somewhat firm, but deliver above-average comfort. Gauges are easy to read at a glance.

As with the original, the 2011 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.

The standard engine is a Vortec 5.3-liter V8, matched to a six-speed 6L80 Hydra-Matic transmission. The engine can operate on E85 or gasoline, although fuel economy is greatly reduced when using E85 while horsepower is increased slightly. Under certain conditions, Active Fuel Management Technology lets the engine run on four cylinders to save fuel.

5.3-liter V8 Flex Fuel (iron block)
320 horsepower @ 5400 rpm
335 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/21 (2WD, gas), 11/16 (2WD, E85)

5.3-liter V8 Flex-Fuel (aluminum block)
320 horsepower @ 5400 rpm
335 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/21 (2WD, gas), 11/16 (2WD, E85), 15/21 (4WD, gas), 11/16 (4WD, E85)

In LS trim with rear-wheel drive the 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting around $37,000. A mid-level Avalanche LT stickers for a few thousand more, while a fully-loaded LTZ with four-wheel drive can pass the $55,000 mark. Be sure to click on Fair Purchase Prices to check what the Avalanche is currently selling for in your area. In terms of resale value, we predict that over time the 2011 Avalanche will hold similar values to the 1500 Silverado Extended Cab, Honda Ridgeline and Ford F-150 Super Cab, and outperform the Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab and Nissan Titan.

To find out what consumers are really paying for this vehicle, first select a style to see the Fair Purchase Price| Calculate payments for this vehicle