2008 Chevrolet Avalanche

Designed for people who just don't know what they want, the Chevrolet Avalanche combines the seating room and luxury of a Suburban with the utility of a pickup truck.

The bed on this thing is quite unique. On either side of its 5ft box there are two lockable storage compartments. The size and depth of these bins is perfect for storing tools and small packages. In the bed, there's also an in-floor storage area, built-in tie-down hooks and a three piece, lockable bed cover. The bed has a considerable load height, so loading heavy objects can be a chore. If there just isn't enough room in the bed, simply open the back door, fold down the seat, remove the back glass then lower the mid gate. Presto! An 8ft bed.

On the inside, the Avalanche can have any option available on a Suburban. There's power Everything, a sunroof, leather, rear DVD player, navigation, and a rear backup camera with obstacle detection. Since there's almost no rear visibility, the backup camera is more of a necessity than an option.

Power is supplied by either a 310hp, 5.3L Flex Fuel V8, or a powerful 6.0L V8. The Flex Fuel 5.3L can run on either regular gas, or E85 Ethanol. Running Ethanol can sometimes reduce power and fuel mileage, but E85 is cheaper and somewhat cleaner burning that regular gas. Both engines get GM's Active Fuel management cylinder deactivation system. Since this is in fact a truck 4WD is available along with a Z71 off road suspension package. LT and LTZ trucks can have GM's AutoRide load leveling suspension as well.

The Chevrolet Avalanche is an attractive alternative to the more traditional crew cab truck. Its masculine looks and throaty exhaust note ensure that you get plenty of attention, no matter where you go. Especially if you get one of those orange Avalanches. . COMMON PROBLEMS FOR THE CHEVROLET AVALANCHE: This is a Chevrolet, so expect electrical problems with the accessories (windows, lights etc.). The oil pressure sensor can develop a leak, which can cause a reduction in oil pressure and the oil light to come on.