2003 GMC Envoy SLE 275HP I-6 from North America
Summary:
The best available SUV for the money
Faults:
Since purchasing the car we have had absolutely no problems of any kind.
General Comments:
Incredibly smooth and powerful. The 6 provides so much power I can't imagine why anyone would want the 8. This car has more power than the majority of V-8's on the market.
The ride is quiet and smooth, with a solid and secure feel.
The braking is absolutely amazing. The 4-wheel anti-lock brakes and 17" Michelin tires bring this rather large vehicle to a safe and straight stop in a surprisingly short distance.
Like all GM vehicles, the interior is well-designed, with all controls placed for excellent access. The fit and finish is superior to everything else we looked at (see below) and the quality of the interior materials is top notch.
Although the fuel mileage of all SUV's is terrible, we average between 17 and 19mpg, with an occasional 20+ on road trips. Not bad considering that our smaller Ford Explorer with the far less powerful V-6 never managed over 17mpg, and my wife's father's Expedition averages between 7 and 11mpg.
After three full years of use we have yet to have even a hint of a problem with anything on this vehicle. Before purchasing it, we test drove the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Murano, Saturn Vue, Ford Escape and (new) Explorer, Kia Sorento and Dodge Durango. The Envoy absolutely blew them ALL away in terms of power, handling, smoothness and a quality feel. I'd recommend the Envoy to anyone interested in a solid, well-built and dependable vehicle. We'd buy another one without a second's hesitation.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 16th June, 2006
28th Aug 2007, 11:54
Original reviewer again. Just wanted to add an update. The Envoy is still flawless after more than 4 years of daily driving. We have yet to encounter a single problem with the car.
The 275 hp inline 6 provides awesome acceleration and excellent fuel mileage, the ride is the best in its class, and the level of comfort on trips is great.
Our best friends just opted to buy an Envoy based on our experience with ours. Their previous car was a Mercedes.
7th Feb 2007, 15:26
The V8 is a must if you get the XL model. More power, same gas mileage!