2005 GMC Envoy XUV New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 GMC Envoy XUV?
For 2005, the GMC Envoy XUV receives an optional Displacement on Demand V8 engine that shuts down half the cylinders under low-load conditions to conserve fuel. The Envoy XUV also gets 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, and SLT models now include burl wood trim. Sun, Sound and Entertainment, Luxury, and V8 Power Play packages are also available for 2005. New exterior colors include Steel Gray, Superior Blue, Emerald Jewel; one new interior color called Light Gray is added.

Advantages of the 2005 GMC Envoy XUV:

• Extreme versatility
• Strong V6 and available V8 powertrains
• Ride quality

Objections to the 2005 GMC Envoy XUV:

• Fuel economy
• Skittish handling in emergency avoidance situations
• Interior materials look and feel inexpensive

Editor's Advice:
For the handy do-it-yourselfer with a brood to haul during the week, the 2005 GMC Envoy XUV is in a class all by itself. Too bad the vehicle upon which it is based is no better than average.