Sparing nothing Chevy features a full load of standard equipment, including On-Star, dual zone climate control, full instrumentation, 6-disc in dash CD player, lighting package and most importantly a towing package. A small switch on the gearshift lever activates a "Tow/Haul" feature, which revises the shift points, enabling the transmission to up-shift at higher rev points. This feature makes more effective use of the engine's torque.
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| Chevy's 5.3-L Vortec V8 engine churns out 285-hp and a heavy-duty hauling 325 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
And that torque is substantial, equaling 325 lb-ft at 4000 rpm in 1500 trim. The same engine, a 5.3-liter Vortec V8, churns out 285-horsepower. There is nothing sweeter than a well balanced, torquey V8, especially when it comes to motivating 3,175 kg (7,000 lb) worth of gross vehicle weight. In the super-hauler, heavier-duty 2500 model, an 8.1-L, 340-horsepower V8 produces 455 lb-ft of torque.
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| The 1500 handles fairly well, but the big vehicle has on-center wandering tendencies. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
The 1500 performs well. While not a tire-burner it's a competent machine, accelerating with ease. Once under way, the Avalanche handles well too. While inspiring confidence its 'lean factor' was substantial despite front and rear stabilizer bars. On the highway, at speeds both legal and questionable, the Avalanche remains stable and focused on the job at hand. Wind and road noise levels are extremely low, given its bulk and mass. My only criticism relates to a vague on-center feeling transmitted through the steering wheel. A little extra attention is needed to ensure the big, wandering Avalanche remains centered in its own lane. This is likely related to the truck's large 17-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires, and the slightly over-boosted power steering.
