This rear-wheel-drive pickup is loaded with SUV-style comfort and convenience. Seating five in two rows, with rear seats that fold down and a midgate wall and window that can be removed to increase the 5-foot pickup bed to 8 feet long, the 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche LT3 is both practical and comfortable. It adds bells and whistles with standard front heated seats, color-keyed exterior trim, and power lumbar and memory settings for the driver.

These join the 10-way power front seats, remote entry, remote start, garage opener, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, wheel-mounted and rear audio controls for the 6-CD changer and MP3 player, satellite radio, power-adjustable pedals, leather upholstery, leather and wood trim, Bluetooth, and a trip computer. Other conveniences include folding heated mirrors, intermittent wipers, a roof rack, and a security system.

A 5.3-liter, 320-hp V8 and 4-speed automatic drive the 2008 Avalanche LT3, which rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires. Also available on the LT3 is a 6.0-liter, 366-hp V8 and a flex-fuel version of the 5.3 V8. It earns mostly five stars thanks to 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, stability control, rollover sensors, and dual front and side impact airbags. Other features include OnStar, automatic headlights, a rearview camera and parking assist system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, and halogen headlamps. An off-road package includes skid plates, and other options are 18- or 20-inch wheels and side steprails. You can also add a navigation system, DVD player, and a sunroof.