Riding on a multilink front and rear suspension, the 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche LT1 4WD adds more driving confidence both on and off the road in the form of on-demand four-wheel drive with high- and low-range gearing. The system comes with a mechanical center and locking center differential, with an optional rear locking differential available. The extra weight reduces the towing capacity of this full-size pickup to 8,000. The 5.3-liter V8 delivers 320 hp and 340 ft-lbs of torque and is matched to a 4-speed automatic. It is also an E85 Flex Fuel Vehicle that starts at 14/20 mpg.

The 2008 Avalanche LT1 4WD seats six in two rows, with a 5.2-foot bed. Fold down the rear seats and remove the midgate wall and window, and you fit three people and now have an 8-foot bed. Tie-downs and a hard cover are standard. A roof rack can be added. The tow hitch and trailer wiring are included. The LT1 upgrades from the LS by including a 6-way power passenger's seat along with the 6-way driver's seat and rear audio controls. Other standard equipment includes a full power setup, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, intermittent wipers, leather wheel and shifter trim, heated mirrors, and dual-zone climate control. A sunroof, DVD player, 6-CD changer, remote garage opener, and remote start are available.

Safety-wise, the 2008 Avalanche LT1 4WD earns five stars with standard 4-wheel ABS brakes, 17-inch wheels with all-season tires, dual front and side impact airbags, stability control, OnStar, automatic headlights, halogen lamps, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a tire monitor. Rear parking assist is optional, along with a first aid kit and skid plates.