2011 Chevrolet Avalanche in Joliet, IL - $14,580

The Chevrolet Avalanche, the industry's most flexible vehicle, is a study in the power of more. Based on GM's sophisticated full-size SUV platform, the Chevrolet truck boasts distinctive styling, a spacious and refined interior, impressive driving characteristics and enhanced safety features.

Offered in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels, enhancements and upgrades for 2012 include: new exterior colors Silver Ice Metallic and Blue Topaz Metallic replace Sheer Silver Metallic and Mocha Steel Metallic (late availability for Blue Topaz Metallic); hard-drive navigation radio with AM/FM/XM stereo and CD player, USB port, Time Shift Recording capability and available SiriusXM Weather Service; heated seats are now standard on LT models; leather-wrapped heated steering wheel is standard on LTZ; and StabiliTrak stability control system now includes electronic trailer sway control and hill start assist.

Available in two or four-wheel drive configurations, power for the Avalanche is generated by a Vortec 5.3L V8 engine that is Flex-Fuel E85 capable. The Vortec V8 is also equipped with Active Fuel Management (AFM) for improved fuel economy. Torque for the prime mover is communicated to the ground through a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.

The Chevrolet Avalanche rides on a SUV platform features a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and wide front and rear tracks that enhance handling and lower the center of gravity for a confident road feel.

The passenger cabin has been designed with an interior that represents significant levels of refinement, comfort, quality and convenience. Displays, controls and switchgear have a modern, sophisticated look and operation. The roomy interior of the Avalanche is airy, thanks to a low instrument panel and deeper windshield that improve outward visibility. Passenger space includes good shoulder space for rear passengers.

Of course, it's the standard Convert-a-Cab system that utilizes a midgate system that makes the Avalanche so unique. When the split rear passenger seat is folded, the midgate can be folded down to allow longer and larger cargo. This allows the 63.3 inch standard length bed to convert to a full 97.6 inches -- long enough to carry the proverbial 4' by 8' sheet of plywood -- with the lockable tailgate closed and cargo safely secured. This is just the start of its versatility.

Avalanche's rear window can be removed and stored on the midgate. Keeping the midgate upright with the window removed creates an open air feel without the inherent wind noise associated with a convertible. In addition, the midgate can be lowered to create a larger open space. This allows the truck to accommodate taller cargo like a quad-wheel ATV or motorcycle. Securing big cargo is facilitated by the availability of eight multipurpose tie downs.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 130.0; overall length: 221.3; width: 79.1; height: 76.6

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 5.3L V8 - 320 hp at 5,400 rpm and 335 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm (gasoline); 326 hp at 5,300 rpm and 348 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm (E85)

Transmission: six-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 14 city/20 hwy. (gasoline); 10 city/15 hwy. (E85)

Cargo capacity: 54.3 cubic feet (2nd row seats folded, Midgate closed)

Payload capacity: 1,326 lbs.

Towing capacity: 8,100 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability control, battery run-down protection, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, OnStar communications system, automatic headlamps, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, hill-start assist, rollover sensors, PASS-Key III theft deterrent system, and full-size spare. LT adds heavy duty locking rear differential, front fog lights, remote engine start, ultrasonic rear parking assist, and power adjustable pedals. LTZ adds universal garage door opener, and rearview camera, navigation system.



Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche pickup truck starts from $36,720 for the LT 2WD upto $50,225 for the LTZ 4WD. Destination charges add $950.