2008 GMC Envoy Review
The Envoy is a midsize SUV that debuted in 2002. The Envoy name was originally a trim level on the now-defunct GMC Jimmy. The new Envoy replaced the Jimmy, and is based on the Chevrolet Trailblazer. The XUV trim was added in 2004, but only lasted a year. In 2005, the luxurious Denali trim was introduced.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The GMC Envoy promises a lot of things, but disappoints in a number of areas. It's pricier than more competent, more powerful rivals. Its safety is mediocre at best, and its reliability is considerably below average due to a large amount of recalls. It's certainly comfortable, but it unfortunately lacks in many other respects.
What's New For 2008:
$27,980
yes
5
16/22
4.2L I6
285@6000RPM
276@4600RPM
4 Speed Automatic
FR/RWD
22
gasoline
36/36000
60/100000
72/100000
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not currently available. Problems include cracking engine mounts, failing ignition switches, leaking vacuum switches and failing keyless entry. It's been recalled 14 times for numerous issues. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Envoy received 3.5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Acceptable" for the front, "Marginal" for the side, and "Poor" for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, head curtain airbags, and stability and traction control are standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful
+ Very comfortable
+ Roomy
Cons
- Poor reliability
- Low clearance
- Soft handling
Head-To-Head Competition:
The similar Chevrolet Trailblazer has over 70 more hp, but lacks traction control. The Mercury Mountaineer cost about $1,000 less and has more towing capacity and more cargo space. The Toyota Highlander cost about the same and has more towing capacity, but lacks a standard navigation system.
What Others Are Saying:
"Inside, it's back to the future- I mean the past. Unlike Doc Brown's DeLorean, the Envoy's excursion to a simpler time begins well before the SUV reaches 88 mph. As soon as you sit down, you're faced with a series of ugly knobs, ticky-tacky plastics and seriously kitsch faux wood trim. As Scarlet O'Hara might have said, why it's so horrendous it's quaint!" - The Truth About Cars
"It's strong as an ox and comfortable as your rec room. But I'd probably hold off until a common rail diesel or even a gasoline hybrid engine came available. Neither would make the Envoy exactly "tossable" but might make trips to the gas station a bit less stressful." - About.com
"Keep looking if: you want something sportier, more stylish or more reliable. Consumer Reports has consistently rated the current-generation Envoy's reliability as 'much worse than average.'" - Forbes
Read more about the 2008 GMC Envoy at the GMC manufacturer web site.
Published on Friday, March 7, 2008 - Email to a friend
Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
SEARCH BY MANUFACTURER
