For those who need the rugged build and workhorse capabilities of a full-size pickup, as well as the passenger room and ride comfort of a full-size SUV, the four-door, six-passenger 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche admirably fits the bill. Described by some as a Sport Utility Truck (SUT), the Avalanche is available in three trims, the base LS, mid-level LT, and top-shelf LTZ, each available with either rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD), and all featuring an abundance of standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features. Additionally, the Avalanche goes its major competitor, the Honda Ridgeline, one better in adding the versatility of a unique folding midgate to increase its already-generous 5-foot pickup-style bed area into the rear seating space. A well-regarded V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission provide plenty of towing power, while interior comfort and amenities pamper passengers in a way the typical dedicated pickup rarely does.

All 2010 Avalanche trims are equipped with a 5.3-liter Flex Fuel, variable-valve-timed V8 that’s under the tutelage of a six-speed automatic transmission. This combo puts out 320 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque, which is powerful enough to haul 8,100 pounds of trailer with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 7,400 with four-wheel-drive (4WD). Burning E85 ethanol fuel results in 326 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque. In an attempt to mitigate tepid fuel efficiency, the 5.3-liter V8 features cylinder deactivation at highway speeds. When running on unleaded regular, the EPA estimates the V8 to be good for 15/21 mpg in RWD configurations, while figures are unavailable for the 4WDs. Those Avalanche trims with 4WD feature auto-locking hubs, a mechanical center differential, and electronic hi-lo gear selection.

In addition to the unique folding midgate, with its removable glass rear window and split-folding rear seatbacks, the Avalanche is delivered with a laudable number of traditional standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features. The base LS for example, includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a trailer hitch and wiring, step running boards, six-passenger seating, premium cloth upholstery, power windows, door locks, and heated mirrors, cruise control, tilt-wheel steering, dual-zone air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a single-CD player with six speakers, satellite radio, OnStar telecommunications, and a USB connection. To this, the LT trim adds painted bumpers, a rigid bed cover, leather-appointed seating, six-way power driver’s seat, remote start, seven Bose premium speakers, OnStar navigation, and Bluetooth communications technology. The top-end LTZ, meanwhile goes above and beyond, with standard 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, an adjustable suspension, full leather upholstery, heated, eight-way power front seats, power-retractable, reverse-tilting exterior mirrors, a rearview camera, universal remote garage door opener, memory for driver’s settings, ten Bose premium speakers, and voice-activated DVD navigation.

Options range from availability of all the LT and LTZ bells and whistles for the LS, to the Z81 Off Road Package, with a beefed-up suspension, skid plates, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and heavy-duty engine and transmission cooling for the LT. Additionally, upgraded audio components, a power sunroof, and unique badging and trim are offered as stand-alone options across the lineup.

Notable safety scores are enhanced by the plethora of standard passenger protection features that equip the 2010 Avalanche. Four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, new-for-2010 dual front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, daytime running lights, a post-collision safety system, and OnStar emergency response activation come with all Avalanche trims. Additionally, front fog/driving lights are available for the LS and standard for the LT and LTZ trims.

Owners of the 2009 Avalanche, though properly appreciative of its size and V8 power, nevertheless approach the gas pump with quivering wallets. Visibility issues, some lackluster interior materials, inadequate cabin storage cubbies, and glitches with the voice-activated DVD navigation system are additional major complaints for many owners. Snappy exterior styling, on the other hand, as well as its roomy cabin, performance capabilities, versatility, safety features, scads of standard amenities, and ride comfort all combine to keep most owners generously complimenting this adaptable pickup/Sport Ute.