The Quick Change Artist Gets Naked
Introduced in 2001 as a
2002 model, the
Chevy Avalanche is a vehicle that blends the attributes of a full size SUV with those of a full size pick-up. With the incorporation of some creative engineering and a dose of wizardry, the Avalanche was born. Initially named the Warrior (political correctness aside), the Avalanche has been extremely well received by the public and sales figures for 2002 and early 2003 confirm its success.
 |
| The Avalanche is targeting 35 to 45 year old men, who want the room and feel of an SUV but the capabilities of a truck. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Chevy's Ultimate Utility Truck is targeted toward buyers between 34-45 years of age, most of who are male. These customers are seeking SUV-type vehicles, but also require full-size truck capabilities. Significant upgrades for 2003 include: new interior trim fabric and design, redesigned instrument panel, cluster and center floor console; electronic throttle control; dual stage front air bags and automatic air bag suppression system and a 4-channel Stabili-Trak system available on 2WD models.
 |
| The fully clad Avalanche conjures up images of post-apocalyptic armored vehicles racing across a desert wastelands; the 2003 un-clad version is a little friendlier.(Photo: General Motors) |
When I first espied the full body clad Avalanche, my mind shot back to the Mad Max movie (not an irrelevant image given the escalating road rage confronting the urban driver). My unscientific and less than random survey of friend and foe confirmed that the styling of the Avalanche is definitely a "guy thing". That being said, for 2003 Chevy is seeking wider acceptance by offering an un-clad version. Removing the simulated armor plating has family'ized the Avalanche, allowing it to blend-in with surrounding SUVs in the parking lot at a PTA meeting.
