GMC Envoy 0-60 times

The GMC Envoy debuted for the first time in 1998. It was a mid-size sport-utility vehicle that added on some attributes that consumers couldn’t get in the Jimmy. For example, the Envoy featured a sunroof, a 4.3-liter Vortec V6, 4-wheel drive, 190 horsepower, power front seats, Bose audio, and other luxurious features. It joined General Motor’s Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Saab 9-7X and the Buick Rainier to compete against other models in the market.

The Envoy was discontinued in 2000 and revived in 2002, joining GM’s line of SUVs. The automaker brought in a new engine, better body structure, a better balance of comfort and capability but maintained the powertrain. The new engine was a 4.3-liter 6-cylinder that generated 275 pound-feet of torque and 270 horsepower. This enabled the mid-size SUV to tow up to 6,600 pounds.

Buyers had the option of picking either rear-wheel- or 4-wheel-drive running on a 4-speed automatic transmission. A longer-wheelbase XL trim was also available. It came with either two or three rows. The 3-row Envoy could carry up to 7 passengers.

The 4-speed automatic transmission blends well with the engine. The SLT and SLE models come with a 4.2-liter inline-6 engine that churns up to 277 pound-feet of torque and 291 horsepower. The Denali comes with a bigger 5.3-liter V8 that delivers 330 pound=feet of torque and 302 horsepower. Buyers still hold the option of picking a rear-wheel- or 4-wheel drive Envoy.

Maximum towing capacity for the 6-cylinder Envoy is 5,800 pounds while that of the V8 can reach up to 6,600 when properly fitted. The V6 and V8 both have the same fuel economy estimates at 20 mpg highway and 14 mpg city. This is thanks to the cylinder deactivation technology fitted in the V8 that allows it to run on 4 cylinders when operating lightly.

The current Envoy only carries 5 passengers. The Denali comes with wood-tone and brushed metallic accents that improve on luxury. This is, however, sullied by cheap plastic on the door panels and dashboards. The Envoy can accommodate up to 80 cubic feet of cargo when the rear seats are split 60/40.

The 2009 Envoy comes in three: the SLT, the Denali and the SLE. The SLE comes with a CD player, 17-inchers, keyless entry, OnStar telematics, dual-zone air-conditioning, and satellite radio. The SLT adds a trip computer, automatic climate control, and other extra features. The Denali comes with 18-inchers, power-adjustable pedals, heated seats, a Bose audio system, and more luxurious features. An SLE-2 package can be acquired for the SLE. Most of the extra Denali and SLT features can also be added onto the SLE. 

For those looking for an SUV that combines fuel efficiency, ample cabin space and great handling dynamics, GMC offers a great option in the Envoy. It also gives fancier features and better styling than the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. A generous towing capacity and great body structure only add on to the superior GMC Envoy.