Chevy Avalanche
Under the hood sits a serious V8 that really does mean business. Not only does it push 325 lb-ft of torque and 285 horsepower to the wheels, it is quiet and never at a loss for power, even though it must motivate almost 6,000 pounds. Sitting between the automatic four-wheel drive system, which includes 2-wheel drive, automatic setting as well as 4-low, is the usual 4-speed automatic transmission. As is expected of a GM tranny this one is the model of smoothness as it slips between the cogs and when needed the kickdown is prompt. It also comes with a tow/haul mode. Now while designed to stretch out the shift points when you're towing, it works equally well when you want to exercise the engine's muscle because it holds each gear a little longer.
Riding on a fully independent suspension that uses torsion bars up front and coil springs in back, the ride is as willowy as expected. Haul into a corner and the body begins to roll noticeably. However, once it takes a set, the Avalanche is surprisingly good at carving a corner - hardly what you expect of a truck fitted with a large set of knobby tires. Through the pylons, the Avalanche was easily controlled with understeer only showing up during hard transitions. And, considering the level of power assist, the steering retains decent feel and feedback.
Inside, the Avalanche lacks little. There's a full slate of gauges, all the usual power items including locks windows and mirrors and leather-faced seats that are both large and exceptionally comfortable. To the right there's a decent radio and easily decipherable climate controls and OnStar, which bails you out in the case of an emergency or if you happen to get lost. That said, as is normal for most GM trucks, the overall execution is very much a hodge-podge affair with stuff seemingly placed where it fits rather than with an eye to precision.
As far as safety is concerned, the Avalanche brings a lot for a truck. The standard anti-lock brakes halt to this heavy truck in just 38 metres, and while the pedal is a little mushy to the feel, it is still fairly easy to modulate. Then there's the mandatory front airbags, as well as a pair of seat-mounted side bags. Factor in the sheer size of this behemoth and the thought of having the unthinkable happen, well, it does not seem as bad. Now, you couldn't say that about a truck not so long ago.
Price as tested: $49,115.00
Tire Tally
Performance: 3
Ride/handling: 3
Interior: 2
Touchy/feely/cargo: 5
Safety: 4
Bang for buck: 3
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