2007 Chevrolet Avalanche

Chevrolet's new 2007 Chevy Avalanche, the next generation of the industry's most flexible utility vehicle. This muscular SUT combines the passenger-comfort attributes of an SUV with the cargo capability of a truck. The '07 Avalanche is based on GM's new, full-size SUV platform, which features more power with segment-leading fuel economy and flex-fuel capability; a sharper, more precise driving feel; increased interior refinement; and improved quietness. Avalanche also delivers a 360-degree safety system of occupant protection and crash-avoidance technology and standard StabiliTrak stability control system with new rollover mitigation technology.

The 2007 Avalanche will be offered in LS, LT and LTZ models, with 2WD and 4WD (a Z71 off-road package will be offered later in the model year). At the start of production, Avalanche will come with an efficient 5.3L V-8 with Active Fuel Management technology that seamlessly switches from eight-cylinder to four-cylinder operation to save fuel. Later, a new, all-aluminum 6.0L V-8 with Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing (VVT) will be available. Several available engines allow Avalanche to run on E85, a renewable fuel. E85 is a blend of 85 percent ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and 15 percent gasoline. It delivers similar performance as regular gasoline and is a renewable, domestically produced fuel made from the starch and sugar in agricultural products – primarily corn.

Avalanche's unparalleled flexibility enables it to function as an SUV, truck or both, thanks to the unique Midgate. Pioneered on the first-generation Avalanche, the clever Midgate opens to extend the cargo-carrying capability from the cargo bed's 5.3-foot-long (1.6 m) length to 8.2 feet (2.5 m) – 2 inches (51 mm) longer than previous models. The rear seat must be folded to achieve maximum storage capability; with the rear seat up and the Midgate closed, Avalanche has room for up to six passengers. When the Midgate is open and the rear seat is folded flat, Avalanche can carry 4-foot by 8-foot (1.2 m by 2.4 m) sheets of plywood with the tailgate closed.

Avalanche is powered by a new Gen IV small-block V-8 family that delivers more power than comparable powertrains in previous models. Standard on 2WD models is a Vortec 5.3L V-8 with 320 horsepower and 340 lb.-ft. of torque, which offers Active Fuel Management. Two versions of the Vortec 5.3L Gen IV V-8 – including an aluminum-block version that is standard in 4WD models – are compatible with E85. The 5.3L aluminum-block V-8, standard on the 4WD Avalanche, delivers an estimated 310 horsepower and 335 lb.-ft. of torque. Coming later in the year is a powerful, new all-aluminum 6.0L V-8 with variable valve timing, as well as Active Fuel Management. The engine, available on 2WD and 4WD models, is rated at an estimated 355 horsepower. A Hydra-Matic 4L70 electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine.

Contributing to Avalanche's more efficient performance is improved aerodynamics. A more steeply raked windshield and smoother roofline improve airflow over the vehicle, while a dditional contributors to efficiency include a lower, wider front air dam, tighter tolerances and gaps between the fascias, lamps and grille openings, and improved front-end sealing that nearly eliminates air leak paths. These features all contribute to enhanced fuel economy and improved driving quietness, compared with previous models.

Along with Chevy Tahoe and Chevy Suburban, the interior of the Avalanche represents significant new levels of refinement, comfort, quality and convenience. It is roomy and airy, thanks to a lower instrument panel and deeper windshield that improve outward visibility. Passenger space also is increased, including more shoulder space for rear passengers, which is packaged with the available roof-mounted head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for both seating rows.