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General Motors made the Envoy mid-size SUV available for sale and purchase in
2002 and was quickly recognized as MotorTrend Magazine's 2002 Sport Utility
Vehicle of the Year. This newly designed SUV replaced the GMC Jimmy, which in
its latter years designed the Jimmy with an optional Envoy trim level. The 2002
GMC Envoy had two trim levels from which to choose, the SLE and the SLT, with
both models sporting a 4.2 liter inline 6 cylinder engine and both available as
either rear wheel drive or four wheel drive. This mid-sized SUV produced 270
horsepower-the highest horsepower rating of any other mid-size SUV at the time
and could easily go from 0 to 60 in 8.3 seconds. Not bad for an SUV that will
also tow 6300 lbs in two wheel drive.
The SLE model is equipped with power seats, dual zone climate control, steering
wheel mounted sound system controls and a refined interior including wood trim.
The SLT model includes everything found in the Envoy SLE and also includes a
locking differential, an air suspension system, traction control and heated
leather front seats. The storage capabilities of both the SLE and SLT include 80
cubic feet behind the rear seat and several convenient and strategically placed
storage compartments that should more than accommodate the needs of the mid-size
SUV owner.
The Envoy has been consistently updated throughout the 2007 model year. In 2003,
a 22 gallon fuel tank upgraded the previous tank of less capacity; particular
options were made available for individual purchase as opposed to part of a
package to allow for greater design flexibility and potential cost savings. New
options were made available in 2004, including a navigation system, satellite
radio and entertainment system/audio system integration for sound enjoyment
without the use of wireless headphones. Comfort and convenience options also
topped the list in 2005, when new seating was designed with higher quality
materials with a focus on comfort. Additional new options included an MP3
capable audio system, DVD based navigation system. The other significant change
in 2005 was the addition of the upscale and luxurious Denali trim model with 5.3
liter V8 engine. In 2006, the Denali trim model received new 18 inch alloy
wheels and all models received OnStar technology, cruise control and increased
stability control features.
The 2007 models have remained fundamentally unchanged since 2006 with the
exception of the previously optional tire pressure monitoring system now being a
standard feature on all models. In a nutshell, the GMC Envoy is a very flexible
and formidable mid-size SUV, designed for those who need relatively little
towing capacity, more front and rear leg room and cargo space and want well
designed comfort and convenience.
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