2004 Chevrolet Avalanche Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The Chevy Avalanche returned with minimal changes for the 2004 model year after a number of minor alterations and upgrades for 2003. The...
The Chevy Avalanche returned with minimal changes for the 2004 model year after a number of minor alterations and upgrades for 2003. The only notable change is a new optional anti-skid system on the two-wheel-drive versions of the truck.
The Avalanche continued to receive positive reviews for its ample passenger and cargo room, interior and bed storage space, and impressive towing capacities. The "crossover pickup," as Chevy has dubbed it, has been in relatively high demand since its 2001 debut, largely because of its unique styling. Yet reviewers have found that the Avalanche's road manners are more pleasant than some might expect, and it was even named Motor Trend magazine's SUV of the Year for 2002. Its refinement is similar to that of the Suburban, as the two massive vehicles share the same engines, platforms, brakes, and transmissions.
Like the Suburban, this popular SUV's downside is fuel economy. A 4WD Avalanche will average in the low teens for mixed-driving miles-per gallon. Road testers have also warned that the steering could be more responsive, and there is some palpable suspension float on rougher surfaces. According to owners, some common trouble spots include transmission slippage and an occasionally faulty blower motor.
The Avalanche has an unladen weight of 5,437 pounds and stretches over 18 feet in length. Chevy offered two different powerplant options for the massive SUV, distinguished from one another by the common 1500 and 2500 badges. A 5.3-liter V8 powers the Avalanche 1500, making 285 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The Avalanche 2500 gets an 8.1-liter V8 that produces 340 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is paired with both engines. Towing capacity is 8,300 pounds on the 1500 model and 12,000 with the 2500.
Although there are no specific trim levels, buyers do get a choice of two- or four-wheel drive, and between 1500 and 2500 for power. There are no cab-size or bed-length variations for this vehicle. An optional Z71 suspension package provides a more trail-oriented feel, while a Z66 package for the RWD 1500 puts the focus on street performance. Other options include OnStar, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a special North Face appearance package (1500 only).
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche appreciate its versatility and performance. They love its spacious interior, good acceleration, and fun to drive feel. However, some drivers express concerns about fuel economy and short bed size for parking. Many comment on its reliability and comfort, making it suitable for both work and leisure."
It's a great combination between an SUV and truck because you have the room in the back like a truck and it can covered and locked like an SUV. The best of both worlds.
April 17, 2008Best truck I have ever owned. Lots of space inside. Love the mid-gate feature. Few power add-ons and the truck is fast.
January 23, 2008Awesome inside & out!! Cool features. Great deal. Outstanding ride.
March 4, 2022What owners say
It's a great combination between an SUV and truck because you have the room in the back like a truck and it can covered and locked like an SUV. The best of both worlds.
April 17, 2008Best truck I have ever owned. Lots of space inside. Love the mid-gate feature. Few power add-ons and the truck is fast.
January 23, 2008Awesome inside & out!! Cool features. Great deal. Outstanding ride.
March 4, 2022Lets be brief. Performance, you can stop the world from spinning with the acceleration in this beast and braking will get it spinning again, just a bit faster this time :) handling is better than you would think coming from a truck of this stature but you can take a corner at 50 MPH and not even feel it! Appearance, some say it looks like a tennis shoe while others thinks it looks like a rescue vehicle that can go anywhere! the inside is great as long as you don't go with the leather, you take that anywhere but the mall and your going to have the inside redone. Cost of ownership, if you have the 8.1 liter engine that I do it takes gas faster than you can fill it, unless you drive like a newly wed with a kid, then it gets pretty good mileage, maintenance is the same with every vehicle, if you don't take care of it it won't last to the next oil change, so I'm not going to say anything about that. Fun factor! Its a girl getter that's for sure! its like driving a viper with 1/8th the insurance and can hold twice as many people, plus you can take that certain some one to the mountains and look at the stars and not have to worry about getting it high centered.
December 15, 2008From day one it has been an awesome truck. I can't say any more.
June 10, 2008I really like this truck. It is great. You get a pickup and a SUV at the same time. Gas is crazy expense where I live. So that is the only downfall. When we go camping everything is in the back. It is totally covered whether rain or shine. I love the seat recall and the seat warmers. The tailgate light is super awesome also.
January 2, 2013Great truck with more versatility than the average 1/4 ton, love the side compartment storage units in the bed. truck ride is same as SUV counter counter part. dependable and low maintenance over the years of opperation. could use better gas milage compared to power output
July 20, 2011Best pickup Ive ever owned very reliable very few problems excellent 5.3 engine
April 15, 2022This truck drives great it tows our ski boat with ease and it looks good too. I feel extremely safe driving the truck and it handles with ease. This is an all around great looking and fun vehicle to drive and own.
September 16, 2012I love this truck, very dependable and looks good!! This has been a very good vehicle and it has low mileage. This truck has had only one original owner and has been very well taken care of. Must see to appreciate.
July 5, 2012Trims & specs
Base MSRP $37,035 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.3L 295 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $34,035 | Seating 6 |
Engine 5.3L 295 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $38,870 | Seating 6 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
