2009 Chevrolet Avalanche

Overview

The 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is a capable and well-designed vehicle; a reconfigurable pickup truck for carrying passengers and cargo. The 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche receives a new 6-speed automatic transmission, a heavy-duty trailering package and a new Luxury package. The 2009 Avalanche’s OnStar system is enhanced; Bluetooth interface and a rear back-up camera have also been added; newly available 20-inch chrome wheels add some pizzaz.

The 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is a full-size crew-cab pickup with a removable rear window and exclusive mid-gate, available in four trim levels: LS, LT1, LT2 and the upscale LTZ, with either two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Chevy offers the best coverage in America with a 100,000 mile/5-year fully transferable Powertrain Limited Warranty, plus Roadside Assistance Program and Courtesy Transportation Program.

Power and Performance

All Avalanche 2WD models receive a 5.3-liter V8 producing 310 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque, teamed with a new six-speed automatic transmission which improves fuel economy ratings compared to its predecessor. A 6.0-liter V8 engine good for 366 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque comes optional. When fully equipped, the 2WD Avalanche has a towing capacity of up to 8,100 pounds making it an excellent vehicle for pulling an enclosed car trailer or a boat. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 14/20 mpg (city/ highway) and 16 mpg (combined) for 2WD trims with the 5.3-liter engine.

Body and style

The 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche has a cabin built with premium quality materials, featuring good ergonomics, and impeccable fit and finish. The Avalanche can accommodate five, but up to six people can sit comfortably when equipped with the split-bench front seat.

The Avalanche LS features a stereo with a single-CD player, an auxiliary jack and satellite radio; a front 40/20/40-split bench seat with storage; cloth trim, full power accessories; composite cargo bed; a removable three-piece cargo cover; a power driver seat with manual lumbar control; an auto-dimming rearview mirror; Bluetooth; and OnStar capability. The LT1 is equipped similarly to the LS, and receives enhanced OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation; standard front bucket seats; and rear audio controls. The LT2 package includes a six-CD changer; remote vehicle start; dual-zone automatic climate control; power-adjustable pedals; and rear park assist. The top-of-the-line LTZ adds a premium Bose audio system; heated and cooled leather seats; chrome exterior accents; adaptive suspension; rain-sensing wipers; and 20-inch wheels. The higher-trim-level features are available as options for lower trims.

The Z71 Off Road Package features large color-keyed wheel flares, aggressive front fascia and chrome assist steps along with a high-capacity air cleaner; specialized springs and shock absorbers; an automatically locking rear differential; front recovery hooks; a skid plate; and upgraded 18-inch off-road tires. Stand-alone options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; navigation system; an integrated rearview camera; a sunroof; power running boards; and 20-inch wheels. For 2009, a heavy-duty towing package includes an integrated trailer brake controller.

Safety features

Standard safety equipment includes a full-length side curtain airbag system with a rollover sensor; antilock disc brakes; stability control; and OnStar emergency communications system. For 2009, the Avalanche's rearview camera has been redesigned to display images on the rear-view mirror without a navigation system. The Avalanche earned a top five-star rating in all government front- and side-impact tests.