The 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche offers SUV comfort and configurability with pickup utility and space, thanks to a midgate wall and window that can be removed together or separately. Changes this year focus on more standard features and option packages, along with a new 6-speed automatic transmission that replaces the old 4-speed.

Whether in rear-wheel or full-time all-wheel drive configuration, the 2009 Avalanche rides smoothly. Its one-piece body design makes it feel more like a truck than harsher pickups, and engine and road noise are kept to a minimum, making it one of the quietest SUVs in its class. All four trims (LS, LT1, LT2, and LTZ) return this year with a standard 5.3-liter, 320-hp (310 in AWD versions) Vortec V8 engine that can tow up to 8,200 pounds and gets 14/20 mpg. A 6.0-liter, 366-hp Vortec V8 is available in AWD versions of all trims but the base LS. It is E85-compatible. Both engines feature Active Fuel Management, which deactivates up to four cylinders when they're not needed to improve fuel efficiency.

The updated OnStar 8.0 is now standard on all trims, along with Bluetooth and wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. The LS and LT1 get upgraded cloth fabric, while the LT2 receives a new Luxury Package option. This includes heated front seats, a 10-way driver's seat, and auto-dimming side mirrors with turn signals. The high-end LTZ sees the most changes for 2009, with the addition of standard heated and cooled front seats, a 12-way power driver's seat, brushed metal interior trim, a Bose surround sound system, and optional 20-inch chrome-clad wheels. An optional rearview camera is now offered apart from the navigation system, with its display moving from the navigation screen to the rearview mirror.

The 2009 Avalanche earns five stars in front and side impact tests, and three in rollover tests. Traction and stability control, dual front-side and side curtain airbags, and 4-wheel ABS brakes come standard. The LTZ adds rear parking sensors and an automatic load-leveling suspension that adjusts to road conditions, both of which are optional for the LT trims. An offroad package equips the SUV/pickup with stronger shocks and springs, offroad tires, and skid plates.

Its versatile storage capacity makes the 2009 Avalanche attractive to families needing to make Home Depot runs on the weekend. The 5.3-foot-long cargo bed expands to 8 feet with the midgate wall removed. The somewhat cumbersome removal process requires folding down the rear seats and reduces passenger space to the front seat (a three-person bench in the LS and two-person bucket seats in all other trims). The door opens separately from the window if drivers just need a pass-through. The cargo bed features tiedowns, a washable rubber floor, and lockable storage compartments on the outside of the bed. A watertight three-piece hard cover keeps stuff out of sight and out of the rain. A roof rack can be added.

Those interested in high-end SUV comfort will not be disappointed in the 2009 Avalanche, as all trims come well equipped, starting with power features, a power driver's seat, and a CD player, and gradually upgrading to a 6-CD changer, Bose sound system, power-adjustable pedals, wood trim, and memory settings. Owners appreciate the Avalanche's comfortable ride along with its ability to transition to workhorse function. Its powerful V8 tows as much as the Yukon, although it can struggle on acceleration when loaded. Thick roof pillars cause rear blind spots, and the Avalanche's wide turning radius hinders maneuverability.