2003 GMC Envoy XL

When the Envoy was introduced in late 2001 as a 2002 model, the major fault of this all-new vehicle was that it didn't have a third row of seats and could only be ordered with a six-cylinder engine. However, buyers didn't have to wait long for a solution. By the summer of 2002, GMC had introduced a larger version called the Envoy XL that comes with three rows of seats to transport seven people and can be equipped with GM's venerable 5.3-liter V-8 engine for increased towing capacity over a regular Envoy.

The Envoy XL is 16 inches longer in both wheelbase and overall length than a standard Envoy and sits over three inches taller.

But the Envoy XL doesn't carry the XL moniker for nothing. It fits somewhere between the regular Envoy and the Yukon XL in terms of size. It's 16 inches longer in both wheelbase and overall length than a standard Envoy and sits over three inches taller. While the Envoy XL is longer than a regular Yukon, it's about four inches narrower than both of the Yukon models. From a styling standpoint, the XL looks rather blown up compared to the regular Envoy. While it may not be the case, it appears that the proportions of the Envoy are what the designers had in mind as being proper. However, the larger size of the XL looks as though it's been forced to fit into the Envoy design mold giving it a somewhat odd appearance.


We test drove both I-6 and V-8 versions of the XL, and there is a significant difference between the two. The all-aluminum 4.2-liter DOHC 24-valve engine puts out a respectable 275 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. While many of us in the press raved about how strong this engine feels in the regular Envoy, it feels downright gutless when trying to accelerate the heavier XL. Our tester even had the optional 3.73:1 rear-end gear. We can only imagine how slow it must feel with the standard 3.42:1. A tip to those buying the XL with the I-6 engine is to upgrade past the 3.73 and go for the little known 4.10:1 rear-end gear. While you may give up some mileage, you'll appreciate the improved seat-of-the-pants acceleration feel.


But, if you're really concerned with pulling power, then spend $1,500 and get the optional 5.3-liter V-8. Pumping out 290 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque, the 5.3 is the same proven OHV engine that GM uses in its pickups and full-size SUVs. The main advantage of the 5.3 is the increase in towing capacity. While an I-6-powered XL has a maximum of 5,900 pounds, upgrading to the 5.3 nets you 7,200 pounds of towing ability.

The interior of the XL is refined, seating is comfortable and the cargo capacity is more than adequate.

Bigger usually means heavier and such is the case with the Envoy XL. A four-wheel drive version of the Envoy XL weighs in at 5,118 lbs., a hefty 350 more than a similarly equipped Envoy. However, it's worth noting that XLs fitted with the V-8 are actually 63 pounds lighter than those fitted with the base 4.2-liter I-6 engine.