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2006 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE COMBINES CONFIGURABILITY WITH UNCOMPROMISING TRUCK CAPABILITY

In a class by itself, the 2006 Chevy Avalanche continues as a full-size truck that offers almost unlimited versatility and configurability, while delivering on the uncompromising performance capability demanded by full-size truck customers – Avalanche 2500 can tow up to 12,000 pounds (5,400 kg) when properly equipped.

Avalanche's clever configuration choices begin with its revolutionary Convert-a-Cab System and Midgate, which provide unparalleled flexibility to quickly convert the vehicle from a pickup and SUV. Avalanche can seat up to six adults comfortably, while providing ample and secure storage with dual locking storage compartments on either side of the cargo box. The compartments also have drains, so they can be filled with ice and used as coolers. A three-piece rigid cargo cover with interlocking panels is also available.

When maximum cargo capacity is needed, however, the rear passenger seat can be folded forward and the Midgate lowered to extend the standard 5-foot 3-inch (1.6 m) bed to more than 8 feet (2.5 m) – long enough to stack 4-foot by 8-foot (1.2 m by 2.4 m) panels with the liftgate closed.

Changes to the '06 Avalanche are evolutionary and reflect Chevrolet's commitment to continual improvement and customer input. The most prominent of these is a revised 'RV-style' extendable outside rearview mirror that is available on Avalanche 2500. This new, vertical mirror has a larger glass area and manually extends outward to provide a greater view when towing a trailer or camper. It includes heated, power-adjustable flat glass and integrated turn signals. A convex 'spotter mirror' glass also has been added to the mirror. The vertical configuration and new spotter mirror section answer customer requests for such a configuration.

Other 2006 Avalanche changes include:

Integrated OnStar/XM Satellite Radio antenna – A single antenna unit replaces the previous two, for a smoother appearance. The new, combined antenna is located on the left-front corner of the roof.

Relocated catalytic converters – For Avalanche 1500, the catalytic converters are moved closer to the engine to meet improved emissions performance guidelines.

Standard tire pressure monitoring system – All Avalanche models have a standard GM tire pressure monitoring system, which uses an electronic signal on the driver information center to warn of a low-pressure condition.

Full-size strength

Standard on Avalanche 1500 models is the Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 engine, which delivers 295 horsepower (220 kw) and 330 lb.-ft. of torque (446 Nm). This engine is coupled with GM's dependable Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission. The Avalanche 2500, available in four-wheel drive only, is powered by GM's Vortec 8100 8.1L V-8 engine rated at 320 hp (239 kw) and 440 lb.-ft. of torque (597 Nm). It is matched with GM's heavy-duty Hydra-Matic 4L85-E four-speed automatic transmission.

The Vortec 8100/4L85-E powertrain combination enables the Avalanche 2500's 12,000-pound (5,400 kg) towing capacity. Avalanche 1500 models can tow up to 8,200 pounds (3,700 kg).

Avalanche's suspension consists of an independent torsion bar design in the front and a five-link with coils springs rear suspension on 1500 models. Avalanche 2500 models feature the same independent torsion bar front suspension, but use dual-stage multileaf springs on the rear suspension. The sure-footed Autotrac 4WD system is standard on all models except those equipped with the Premium On Road package, and is designed to increase fuel economy when operating in 2WD, as well as improve driver feel during parking and other low-speed maneuvers.

The Avalanche 1500 Z71 model ratchets up the off-road capability of the vehicle. The special package is designed to handle rough, off-road terrain and comes with a skid plate package, 46-mm specially tuned shocks, off-road jounce bumpers, a high-capacity air cleaner, automatic locking differential, 17-inch wheels with aggressive P265/70R17 on/off road tires, rubberized vinyl floor mats and unique Z71 exterior graphics.

GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is offered with the 2WD Premium On Road suspension package. StabiliTrak assists the vehicle in maintaining the driver's intended path by applying a brake force at any corner of the vehicle independent of the driver's use of the brake pedal. StabiliTrak uses an accelerator pedal position sensor, a brake master cylinder pressure sensor and a steering wheel angle sensor as inputs to interpret the driver's desired path and whether to accelerate or decelerate the vehicle. StabiliTrak also uses these sensors plus a lateral accelerometer and yaw rate sensor to determine the vehicle's actual path.

Avalanche models also come with an extensive list of active and passive safety systems, starting with standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. The Avalanche also has dual-stage frontal air bags for supplemental protection for front-seat passengers. Dual-stage frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of air bag-induced injury. When the air bag system's control unit detects an impact, it determines whether the crash is severe enough to trigger a deployment, and whether the primary amount of inflation is sufficient. The primary stage alone will deploy in most frontal impacts requiring the supplemental protection of an air bag, while a secondary stage is designed to deploy in more severe frontal collisions.

Side-impact air bags for the driver and right front passenger are optional.

The Avalanche is equipped with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system anchors for child safety seats in the center and right positions of the second-row split/folding bench seat. This system provides two lower anchors and a top tether anchor to be used to secure a child seat to the vehicle seat structure. These anchorages are designed to make it easier to properly install compatible child safety seats. Only a top tether connection is available in the left position of the second-row bench seat.

GM's innovative Hydroboost brake system provides added safety, with more reserve power assist for braking under specific conditions. The system continues to provide sufficient power assist to stop the vehicle if the engine stalls or is turned off, by using power steering fluid pressure to decrease brake pedal effort.

Avalanche comfort and convenience features

All Avalanche models come well equipped with a lengthy list of standard and available comfort and convenience features, including an impressive array of information and entertainment systems. An AM/FM stereo with CD player is standard, while available audio systems include an AM/FM stereo with in-dash six-CD changer and an AM/FM stereo with CD and touch-screen navigation system, as well as a premium Bose sound system with console-mounted subwoofer. XM Satellite Radio also is available.

A rear-seat entertainment system with a DVD player and flip-down screen add to Avalanche's available entertainment choices. It includes a remote control, overhead display, two sets of wireless headphones, auxiliary audio/video jacks, remote game plug-in and a mute button in an overhead console.

Other standard interior features include a driver information center, overhead console, power windows and locks, leather-wrapped steering wheel and power-adjustable seats. Options include leather seating surfaces, power-adjustable pedals, sunroof and HomeLink universal transmitter with programmable garage door opener.

The OnStar system is standard on Avalanche. OnStar-equipped Avalanche models feature digital and analog coverage. OnStar's digital hardware also includes upgraded hands-free voice recognition capabilities, including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada . Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Personal Calling that allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls using a powerful 3-watt digital/analog system and external antenna for greater reception.

Source - GM Media

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