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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2011 Chevrolet Avalanche

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

Overview

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2011 Chevrolet Avalanche Review

By KBB.com Editors

When it was first introduced, the Avalanche was unique, combining a full-size SUV body with a pickup truck's cargo bed. Nine years later, the 2011 model continues with the same proportions, but with much better packaging. 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 and includes Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation for optimal fuel economy. Three trim levels are offered: LS, LT, and LTZ 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 (7,900 with 4WD.) With its versatile Midgate configuration, the 2011 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 2011

Changes for 2011 are marked by some new paint colors, the addition of body-colored side mirrors on the LS trim and a new two-speed transfer case on the LTZ 4WD, replacing last year's single speed unit.

Driving the Avalanche

Driving Impressions Compared to the original Avalanche (and even some of its modern competitors), the 2011 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.

2011 Chevrolet Avalanche Details

Interior

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.

Exterior

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.

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 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)

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2011 Chevrolet Avalanche Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.3

Out of 10

Based on 310 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

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."

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"The best vehicle I've ever owned."

By Big "M" (AL) on Tuesday, April 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 228

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: "Fun to drive"

Cons: "None"

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

"This is my second Avalanche. I'm very proud of my decision to purchase this vehicle. The ride is smooth and comfortable. It doesn't ride like a pick up, it rides like a luzury car. I traded a 2009 Avalanche for the Black Diamond 2013 Avalanche both LTZ. I love them both. I didn't have any trouble out of the 2009. I had regular OLF changes and I put 97,500 miles on it. I wanted the Black Diamond because of the great look it has and it was the last edition. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get one if I waited any longer expecially since my 2009 was getting close to 100K. I got good value for my 2009 trade and I am in love again with my new White Diamond Tricoat Black Diamond edition of the 2013 Chevrolet Avalanche."

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My 3rd Avy & very Happy

By Mo (TX) on Wednesday, April 17, 2013

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

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: "Ride, Versatility, Reliable, Style, & Quality"

Cons: "Discontinued. :("

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

"I bought one of the first ones back in 10/01 drove it 140K mi. over 9 years, traded it in on 2010 Silverado and immediately regretted it. Traded the Silverado in on 2011 Avalanche and was so glad to be back in the Avy, drove it for 13K mi. no issues at all. Heard the bad news of the Avalanche being discontinued and traded the 2011 for the 2013. The Avalanche has NEVER let me down and has always done everything I have ever asked of Truck. Excellent ride + Truck Utility + SUV + Luxury + Reliability = AVALANCHE I am very sad about GM dropping this one of a kind SUT."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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My Second Avalance - Sorry to See Them Go

By Daleman (NJ) on Thursday, March 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 6,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

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

Pros: "Beautiful (metallic green) comfortable, luxurious."

Cons: "Of course, gas mileage."

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

"Our 2002 Avalanche needed a new transmission after 190,000 miles. It's not our primary vehicle but we had to decide whether to put $3,000 into that truck or buy a new one. Man, am I glad that we got the 2013. We loved the 2002 but the new Avalanche is unbelievable. All of the comforts of a Tahoe but 10 grand less in price. I'm a tall guy and I love the comfort. Probably the last time I'll be able to get something like this. Still, I'm going to be sad to see the old one go. Put an ad on craigslist to sell it, as is, 190K miles, bad transmission for $3500 and I am getting killed with e-mails to see it. Might have to rethink the price and ask for more. Hoping to make this one last for a LONG time."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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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."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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