2002 Chevrolet Avalanche

"Changes in attitude, changes in latitude"—that's how Jimmy Buffet's song goes and that's exactly how Chevrolet hopes people will view the all-new Avalanche. Call it part pickup truck, part sport-utility or maybe all Transformer, but no matter what you call it, the Avalanche is a versatile package that has the capability to morph into many configurations and accommodate many needs. Certainly a change in attitude.

Double-wall construction gives the cargo box necessary rigidity. Space between the walls is used as lockable storage.

The Avalanche shares about 85% of its components with the Suburban. Sheetmetal is identical from the C-pillar forward. The two have a similar platform, but the Avalanche's body is stiffer (rated at 23.5 hertz)—even the cargo box and cab fairing are structural components. Rearward of that, though, the Avalanche is unique unto itself and defies being labeled. It has storage bins, cubbyholes and pockets galore. In fact, two locking Top-Box Storage units combine to hold 3.5 square feet of cargo between the bed's inner and outer walls. These bins even have drain plugs so they can be used as coolers. We've basically come to think of the Avalanche as a Suburban with a pack mule attached simply because this vehicle has so many neat areas to stuff things.


In effect, Chevy designers melded a Suburban SUV and a Silverado pickup to create the Avalanche. Succinctly put, buyers want versatility and capability—even if they'll never exercise that flexibility. Just as most newer four-wheel-drive vehicles never touch treacherous terrain, many buyers still opt for 4x4s because of the "I want to know I have the ability at any time if I choose to" syndrome.

Avalanche's bed can be "made" many ways, depending on whether passengers or cargo is the immediate priority.

The Avalanche exudes versatility. With so many different configurations, you'll be more than willing to help friends, neighbors and even the in-laws move a variety of items. From material for a weekend project to motorcycles or even 4x8-foot sheets of plywood, the Avalanche can perform the task.