Chevrolet Avalanche 2500

The ¾ Ton Chevy Avalanche

In 2002, the Chevrolet Avalanche was introduced as a newly designed full-size truck. It was known for looking like a truck on the outside and feeling like an SUV on the inside, making the Avalanche an ultimate hybrid between the two. All one has to do is pull down the mid-gate to transform the cabin into a truck with an enlarged bed. This duality made it the perfect vehicle for heavy-duty transportation of large items, work, or hauling the family around. Its excellent 18-23 mpg was one of its initial qualities that attracted buyers. The Avalanche truly seemed to be all one could want and need in one.

The End of the 1500 and 2500

In 2002 the Avalanche 2500 came as a ¾ ton truck with two or four-wheel drive. It was tougher than the 1500, and could tow and load at a higher capacity. Trim levels were known as Base, LS, and LT. Special trim package options included an on-road package, an off-road Z71 package, and a North Face edition. The standard engine was an 8.1-liter V8 with 340 horsepower. Transmission was a 4-speed automatic, but the biggest attraction was the new mid-gate concept. By lowering the back seats and removing the window, the bed size could be increased. Another innovative feature was a built in tailgate lock to prevent theft. As the Avalanche progressed, it featured quality improvements such as dual-stage airbags, climate control, adjustable pedals, and standard On Star assistance. In 2007, with a new generation in place, the 1500 and 2500 designations were abandoned, and the Avalanche came only as a half-ton truck. Production officially ended in 2013.