 2012 Avalanche |
 |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |
Image credits: © Chevrolet. GM Corp
2013 Chevrolet Avalanche news, pictures, and information | ||
| Tweet | ||
2013 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE ROLLS INTO ITS FINAL YEAR WITH BLACK DIAMOND EDITION
Chevrolet Avalanche is one of the 's most flexible utility vehicles, combining the passenger comfort of a SÚV wîth the cargo capability of a truck, thanks to the exclusive Midgate. It opens to extend the cargo-area from 5-feet-3-inches-long (1.6 m) long to 8 feet 2 inches (2.5 m). It is available in LS, LT and LTZ models, wîth 2WD and 4WD.The Avalanche rolls into its final year of production in 2013 and is commemorated wîth the Black Diamond Avalanche. It features body-color bed surrounds, a unique badge on the sail panel of every vehicle produced, additional features on LS and LT models, and lower prices across the lineup.
In 2013, a rear camera, rear park assist, power adjustable pedals, fog lamps and remote start are added as standard equipment on LS models, while LT models have added a standard rear camera. Fairway Metallic is added to the exterior color palette, as well, and a dealer-installed seat heater kit is available.
Also new is powertrain grade braking in the normal transmission mode. It was previously incorporated only when the Tow/Haul mode was activated. It uses engine torque to help slow the vehicle on descents, which helps reduce brake wear.
The Avalanche is based on GM's full-size SÚV platform, offering a maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds (3,674 kg). It is powered by an efficient combination that includes the Vortec 5.3L V-8 wîth cylinder-deactivating Active Fuel Management technology and a fuel-saving Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic.
Along wîth cargo and towing capability, it offers useful technology and comprehensive safety features, including Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity wîth specific §teering wheel controls, head curtain side-impact air bags and StabiliTrak electronic stability control. Avalanche also offers an integrated brake controller that works wîth the ABS system to provide immediate and measured brake force signaling to electric-controlled trailer brake systems; there is no requirement for external and/or aftermarket brake control systems.
Avalanche changed the market
After debuting to an enthusiastic reception as a concept at the 2000 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Avalanche went into production in 2001 as a 2002 model. It offered unique styling and innovative features, including its signature Midgate, which extended the bed into the cab. It was a design that proved to be one of those rare ideas that change a §egmènt – a light-duty pickup wîth comfortable accommodations for five people.
Motor Trend named it the 2002 Truck of the Year and customers quickly saw the advantage of a well-equipped light-duty pickup that could tow, haul and carry the family. Sales reached 93,482 sales in 2003, its third full year of production.
Recognizing the appeal of the Avalanche, Chevrolet and other truck makers began developing light-duty crew cab pickups. By 2011, crew cabs accounted for more than 65 percent of light-duty pickup sales, and helped transform the pickup from a workhorse into a true multipurpose family vehicle.
The proliferation of crew cab trucks and their increasing popularity – including Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab models – affected Avalanche sales in recent years. And while 2013 marks the final year for this innovative truck, it goes out on a high note, wîth sales expected to total more than 600,000 when production ends.
Avalanche design and exterior features
Avalanche's unique and flexible design enables it to function as an SÚV, truck or both. With the rear seat up and the Midgate closed, the Avalanche has room for up to six passengers. The rear seat must be folded to achieve maximum storage capability.
When the Midgate is open and the rear seat is folded flat, Avalanche can carry 4-foot by 8-foot (1.2 m by 2.4 m) sheets of plywood wîth the tailgate closed. Storage compartments alongside the cargo box provide ample and lockable storage. The storage compartments also have drains, so they can be filled wîth ice and used as coolers.
Additional design and exterior features include:
•Central-locking tailgate and cargo cover retaining straps•The tailgate is spring-loaded to reduce the effort needed to open or close it
•Standard assist steps wîth power-retractable assist steps available on LTZ
•A range of 17-inch and 20-inch wheels is offered. Seventeen-inch wheels and tires are standard, wîth 20-inch factory-installed wheels available (standard on LTZ; available on LT)
•Dealer-installed accessory wheels include 20- and 22-inch designs
•Exterior color choices: Black, White Diamond Tricoat, Silver Ice Metallic, Blue Topaz Metallic and Fairway Metallic (late availability).
The Z71 Off Road appearance package is available on LT models and includes high-pressure, gas-charged monotube shocks, 18-inch aluminum wheels and all-terrain tires, automatic-locking differential, front recovery hooks, a durable skid plate and high-capacity air cleaner. Large, color-keyed wheel flares, an aggressive front fascia and satin chrome tubular assist steps, and bright chrome front grille insert provide a one-of-a kind appearance.
Avalanche interior features
The rear seat is unique to the Avalanche and enables easy access to the Midgate system. It folds flat, allowing longer items to be carried between the cargo bed and into the rear passenger compartment. The interior also demonstrates the attention to detail built into all Chevrolet trucks and SÚVs. There is almost no exposed metal hardware or latches, as all models feature enclosing 'close-outs' around the seat bottoms and door sill trim plates. Avalanche also has the §egmènt's largest center console storage bin, a large glove box and numerous storage compartments.
Additional interior features include:
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 5.3 L., 8-cylinder Power: 320 hp Torque: 335 ft-lbs | |
6-speed Automatic | |
•Heated and leather-wrapped §teering wheel is standard on LTZ
•Rear-seat entertainment system is available on LT and LTZ, including DVD player wîth remote control, overhead display, two sets of wireless infrared headphones, auxiliary audio/video jacks, remote game plug-in and mute button in overhead console
•SiriusXM Satellite Radio is standard on all models
•Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound system is standard on LTZ; Bose nine-speaker sound system is standard on LT and a six-speaker sound system is standard on LS
•Navigation radio wîth touch-screen operation is standard on LTZ and available on LT
•Power-adjustable pedals are standard on all models
•Remote vehicle starter is standard on all models.
Avalanche's Sun, Entertainment and Destinations Package is available on LT and LTZ and includes an additional nine months of SiriusXM radio and XM NavTraffic service, power sunroof, auto-dimming inside mirror, navigation radio and rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
Avalanche powertrain
Avalanche is powered by a 5.3L V-8 (aluminum engine block on 4WD models) that balances power and efficiency. Variable valve timing helps the 5.3L optimize performance, efficiency and emissions, while GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivating technology helps improve fuel economy in certain light-load driving conditions. It is also E85-capable.
The variable valve timing system allows linear delivery of torque, wîth near-peak levels over a broad rpm range, and high specific output (horsepower per liter of displacement). It also helps reduce exhaust emissions. Because it manages valve overlap at optimum levels, it eliminates the need for an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system.
Active Fuel Management (AFM) technology increases fuel economy approximately 6 percent under the federal government's required testing procedure and potentially more in certain real-world driving conditions. AFM temporarily deactivates four of the engine's cylinders under light load conditions and seamlessly reactivates them when full power is required. The transition takes less than 20 milliseconds and is virtually indiscernible
The 5.3L engine is backed by GM's Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)
Avalanche chassis and suspension
Avalanche is built on GM's full-size SÚV platform, incorporating a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, leaf-spring rear suspension and rack-and-pinion §teering. A stiff frame reduces vibrations transmitted to the passenger cabin, while the strength and accuracy of the fully boxed frame also enable precise mounting and tuning of chassis and suspension components.
Additional features include:
•Wide front and rear tracks – 68.2 inches (1,732 mm) front/67 inches (1,702 mm) rear – enhance handling and vehicle stability for a more confident road feel
•The Autoride suspension system is standard on LTZ and features a §egmènt-exclusive bi-state, real-time damping system that provides a refined ride wîth greatly reduced body motion. The system consists of a semi-active, two-position damping control system that responds in real time to road and driving conditions, based on body and wheel motion sensors
•Standard four-wheel-disc brake system wîth ABS featuring smooth, quiet operation, longer pad life and more resistance to brake pulsation
•A single-speed transfer case is standard on LS and LT 4WD models
•A two-speed transfer case is standard on LTZ 4WD and available on LS and LT 4WD models
•A trailering package wîth a 3.42 axle ratio, external transmission cooler and engine oil cooler is available on LS, LT and LTZ models; a two-speed transfer case is included wîth 4WD models
•The standard axle ratio on all models is 3.08
•A locking rear differential is standard on LT and LTZ models and available on LS.
Avalanche safety and crash-avoidance features
Chevrolet Avalanche has a strong body structure designed to absorb crash energy and provide a protective 'safety cage' around occupants. Head curtain side air bags wîth rollover protection for both seating rows are standard, and seat-mounted side-impact air bags for driver and right-front passenger provide thorax and pelvic protection. The roof-mounted head curtain air bags include design features that provide increased rollover protection and occupant containment.
Additional safety features include:
•StabiliTrak electronic stability control system helps reduce the risk of rollover crashes by keeping the vehicle in the driver's intended path by applying throttle, braking or a combination of both
•Standard Últrasonic Rear Parking Assist can detect certain stationary objects in the rearward path of the vehicle and send an audible warning sound and display via three LEDs near the rear window
•Standard rearview camera system is designed to provide the driver with
a view of people or objects in the rearward path of the vehicle
•Pretensioners minimize forward movement during a collision, and are standard on the front safety belts. Load-limiting retractors cinch the belt more tightly
•LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat attachment system is included in two of the second-row seating positions
•Tire pressure monitoring system is standard on all models
•Standard remote keyless entry (RKE) system provides a second function for the red panic button. Drivers can use it to locate their cars without sounding the panic alarm.
OnStar details
Six months of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on Avalanche. OnStar is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology.
OnStar's RemoteLink Mobile App allows smartphone users to control vehicle functions, access vehicle information and send directions directly to the vehicle. A new, opt-in service called FamilyLink allows subscribers to stay connected to loved ones by checking the location of their vehicle online or by signing up for vehicle location alerts.
Avalanche also features new OnStar button icons. Drivers will notice an updated look for the Hands-Free Calling button, blue OnStar button and red Emergency button.Source - Chevrolet
| All-New 2014 Fiat 500L Expands The Fiat Brand'S Product Lineup And Its Commitment To Innovative And Value-Loaded Cars | |
 | ◾All-new 2014 Fiat 500L arrives to FIAT studios this June with a starting price of $19,100 and four value-loaded models ◾No-charge Premier Package on 500L Easy, Trekking and Lounge models ◾All-new Fiat 500L expands the appeal of the iconic 500, while adding two more doors, accommodations for five passengers, best-in-class interior volume (120.1 cu. ft.) and advanced European technology May 24, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Expanding on the style, efficiency and driving enjoyment that ...[Read more...] |
| SOUL RANKED HIGHEST IN ITS SEGMENT IN STRATEGIC VISION'S TOTAL QUALITY INDEX STUDY | |
 | ◾Soul recognized by veteran consumer research-based consultancy, Strategic Vision ◾New car buyers selected Kia's urban transport based on quality perceptions and ownership experience IRVINE, Calif., May 17, 2013 – Kia Motors America (KMA) has been one of the fastest-growing car companies in the U.S. over the last five years1, and its edgy urban passenger vehicle, the Soul – a key factor in that growth – was recently named to Strategic Vision's 2013 list of Total Quality Vehicles. The ...[Read more...] |
| 2014 Corvette Stingray Starts At $51,995 | |
 | The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license. 'The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet's mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,' said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. 'The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology t...[Read more...] |
| 2014 MAZDA6 NAMED TO WARD'S ‘10 BEST INTERIORS' LIST | |
| The all-new 2014 Mazda6 today was named to WardsAuto World's 10 Best Interiors list, as chosen by the publication's editors. The redesigned mid-size sports sedan features Mazda's new design language called KODO 'Soul of Motion,' which translates muscular movement and power into agile proportions, detailed sculpting and expressive character. The Mazda6 also was recently named one of the top three vehicle designs in the world for 2013 by the World Car Awards. 'The automotive industry, regardl...[Read more...] | |
| VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS BEST HIGHWAY FUEL EFFICIENCY, WITH SEVEN MODELS THAT ACHIEVE MORE THAN 40 MPG | |
 | • New Jetta Hybrid earns EPA fuel economy rating of up to 48 mpg; the first compact hybrid available with a turbocharged engine Herndon, VA - With EPA estimated fuel economy ratings of 48 mpg on the highway, 42 mpg in the city, and a combined rating of 45 mpg, the Jetta Hybrid becomes the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the Volkswagen lineup and the seventh model capable of more than 40 mpg on the highway. With sales of the Jetta Hybrid beginning later this month, Volkswagen wil...[Read more...] |
2013| Similar Automakers | |
| Cadillac | Chrysler |
| Dodge | Ford |
| GMC | Hummer |
| Jeep | Lincoln |
| Mercury | Pontiac |
| Saturn | |
| Similarly Sized Vehicles from 2013 |
| Acura MDX |
| Acura ZDX |
| Alfa Romeo Disco Volante Touring |
| Alpine A450 |
| Audi R8 GRAND-AM |
| Audi RS5 |
| BMW Z4 GTE |
| Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse WRC |
| Buick Enclave |
| Cadillac Escalade |
| Chevrolet: 2011-2020 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Chevrolet History |
| Other models by Chevrolet |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Vehicle Recall Information |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Avalanche |
