The most unique aspect of the Avalanche is its "mid-gate" feature. The wall behind the rear seats can be completely removed by folding the rear seats forward and tilting the rear wall of the cab (mid-gate) down, into the area vacated by the rear seats. The rear wall of the cab now lays horizontal, connecting the bed of the cargo box to the interior of the cab. This function creates a flat bed extending from the tailgate to the rear of the front seats. By taking out the back window the rear portion of the cab can be fully removed. The window can be safely stowed beneath the folded mid-gate. This procedure creates a cab that is entirely open at the rear, perfect for summer cruising. Large objects placed in the bed of the truck can extend into the rear area of the cab. The bed of the truck is nicely lined with heavy rubber matting and the inner sides of the box are flat and encompass lighting for the box.
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| With the Avalanche's unique folding "mid-gate" feature, both hauling long objects and summer cruising are equally enjoyable. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
The open cab arrangement provides a floor space of 2,464 mm (97.0 in) by 1,270 mm (50.0 in). With the cab closed, the floor space is reduced to 1,525 mm (60.0 in) by the same width. In the open configuration, a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood will lay flat in the box, with the tailgate closed. The box is watertight and protected by a hard plastic cover comprised of three separate panels. This arrangement provides cargo box security and is strong enough to be walked on. The panels are easily removed and stowed in a zippered bag that can be strapped to the inner side of the box, providing an open box for carrying tall loads. The process of removing and replacing the panels is fairly straightforward, although a wee bit of a calorie burner. Nevertheless it was well thought out and creatively engineered.
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| With a sharp design and ample hauling room, the Avalanche interior is suprisingly civilized. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Once inside, this manly truck becomes very civilized. I was highly impressed with the comfort and spaciousness of the four-door cab. My test vehicle included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather seats, with those in front providing infinite power adjustments including lumbar and side bolstering. Amazingly the sheer comfort of the driver's seat proved a welcome relief to my ailing lower back. Along with the Chevy's incredibly smooth ride they were nothing less than therapeutic.
