Overview

The Chevrolet Avalanche, one of the most desirable crew-cab pickups for carrying passengers and cargo, is much admired for its useful passenger accommodations, expandable cargo room, big-truck muscle, and friendly road manners. The unique design of the Avalanche enables it to function as an SUV, truck or both, thanks to the exclusive Midgate. It opens to extend the cargo-carrying capability from the cargo bed's 5-foot-3-inch-long (1.6 m) length to 8 feet 2 inches (2.5 m). The rear seat must be folded to achieve maximum storage capability; with the rear seat up and the Midgate closed, Avalanche has room for up to six passengers. The 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche truck is available mainly in three trim levels - LS, LT and LTZ in front- or all-wheel drive.

Powertrain And Performance

All 2012 Avalanche models are powered by a 5.3-liter V8 pumping out 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque, driven through a six-speed automatic transmission. A properly equipped 2WD Avalanche can tow up to 8,100 pounds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined for 2WD versions.

Build And Styling

A range of new exterior colors namely Steel Green Metallic, Mocha Steel Metallic and Inferno Orange Metallic replace Laser Blue Metallic and Black Granite Metallic. Body color mirrors are now standard on LS and the two-speed transfer case is standard on LTZ 4WD package (replaces single-speed case). Twenty-inch chrome-clad wheels are available on the Avalanche now. The Avalanche has a cabin built with premium quality materials, featuring good ergonomics, and impeccable fit and finish. The Avalanche can accommodate five, but up to six people can sit comfortably when equipped with the split-bench front seat. 1LT package now includes dual-zone automatic climate control; power-adjustable pedals; remote vehicle start and heavy-duty rear locking differential and single-speed transfer case now standard on 4WD; two-speed transfer case is optional. The Avalanche LS features a stereo with a single-CD player, an auxiliary jack and satellite radio; a front 40/20/40-split bench seat with storage; cloth trim, full power accessories; composite cargo bed; a removable three-piece cargo cover; a power driver seat with manual lumbar control; an auto-dimming rearview mirror; Bluetooth; and OnStar capability. The LT1 is equipped similarly to the LS, and receives enhanced OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation; standard front bucket seats; and rear audio controls. The LT2 package includes a six-CD changer; remote vehicle start; dual-zone automatic climate control; power-adjustable pedals; and rear park assist. The top-of-the-line LTZ adds a premium Bose audio system; heated and cooled leather seats; chrome exterior accents; adaptive suspension; rain-sensing wipers; and 20-inch wheels. The higher-trim-level features are available as options for lower trims. Stand-alone options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; touch screen navigation system; an integrated rearview camera; a sunroof; power running boards; and 20-inch wheels. The Z71 Off Road Package features large color-keyed wheel flares, aggressive front fascia and chrome assist steps along with a high-capacity air cleaner; specialized springs and shock absorbers; an automatically locking rear differential; front recovery hooks; a skid plate; and upgraded 18-inch off-road tires.

Safety Features

Chevrolet has loaded the Avalanche with plenty of advanced safety features as standard equipment. They include roof-mounted side curtain airbags with rollover protection, front seat belt pretensioners, electronic stability system with rollover mitigation technology, and seat-mounted side airbags for front occupants. The OnStar with GM Advanced Crash Response (one-year plan standard, subscription required thereafter) has also been included. Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist and a rearview camera are optional.