2005 GMC Envoy XL New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 GMC Envoy XL?
GMC adds a new member of the extended wheelbase Envoy family for 2005, the Envoy Denali XL. Distinguishing it from its brethren is a Denali-signature front grille, body-color front and rear fascias, integrated body-color running boards, thinner side moldings, heated outside mirrors with integral turn signal indicators, a Nuance leather interior with French seams, heated front seats, satin nickel and burl woodgrain cabin accents, and a leather/wood-trimmed steering wheel. Motivated by a 5.3-liter V8 with Displacement on Demand (which shuts down half the cylinders under low engine load conditions), the 2005 GMC Envoy Denali XL is available with either two- or four-wheel drive. The Denali's new V8 engine is also offered on lower trim levels. For 2005, all Envoys receive a new passenger front airbag that includes a sensor to determine if the seat is occupied, and side curtain airbags are added to the safety equipment list. The front buckets receive fresh styling and improved cushions, and there's a new AM/FM/CD player that incorporates MP3 playback capabilities. The optional navigation system now features a touch screen, SLT models now include burl wood trim, and any Envoy can be equipped with OnStar telematics. The Sun, Sound and Entertainment package debuts, and a Luxury package is also available. New exterior colors include Steel Gray, Superior Blue, and Emerald Jewel, while interior color choices are updated with Ebony, Light Gray and Light Tan becoming available.

Advantages of the 2005 GMC Envoy XL:

• Sturdy body-on-frame construction
• Optional V8 power
• Available rear seat DVD entertainment system

Objections to the 2005 GMC Envoy XL:

• Skittish handling in emergency avoidance situations
• Interior materials look and feel inexpensive
• Wallowly suspension over unimproved roads

Editor's Advice:
Despite the fact that the GMC Envoy XL is just four years old, we're unimpressed by this effort. The mid-size SUV category is populated with several excellent products, and new crossover vehicles are beginning to siphon sales from the more traditional truck-based models like the GMC Envoy XL. Add in a spotty reliability record and skittish handling in emergency avoidance situations, and the GMC Envoy line comes out near the bottom of our recommended list.