Nuts and Bolts

As a member of a new class of GM trucks, the 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche gets a slew of upgraded mechanical features. Indeed, this is a thoroughly redesigned vehicle, featuring very little in common with the previous model. For starters, the rear-wheel-drive Avalanche is motivated by a new 5.3-liter V8 engine that makes 320 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 340 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm. All-wheel-drive models equipped with the same engine rate 310 horsepower and 335 lb.-ft. of torque. Chevrolet will also offer a 6.0-liter V8 engine later in the year that produces an estimated 366 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm. The 5.3-liter V8 features GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder technology, which shuts down half of the engine under light load conditions, and those looking for flex-fuel capability to burn E85 ethanol will need to stick with the rear-wheel-drive Avalanche and its standard LY5 or LMG classified engine. While our experiences with Active Fuel Management and E85 have been disappointing, GM officials say that in order to maximize fuel economy customers should order the 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche with the optional 4.10 axle ratio. Even so, you should expect to get less than the EPA rated 15/21 miles per gallon in the real world.

The standard transmission in all Avalanches is a four-speed automatic. Together, the powertrain offers a tow capacity of 7,200 lbs. with the rear-wheel-drive model or 8,000 lbs. for the all-wheel-drive model, when properly equipped. Managing the Avalanche’s ride and handling mix is a significantly revised suspension, featuring coil-over shocks up front and a five-link setup in back connected to standard 17-inch wheels, available Z71 18-inch rims, or upgraded 20-inchers. Wheels are clad with P265/70R17 Goodyear rubber – optional tires include P265/65R18 or P275/55R20 Goodyears. Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes slow the Avalanche, and steering is vastly improved over the 2006 model thanks to a responsive power-assisted rack-and-pinion setup that replaces the slow, old recirculating ball steering system.

Traction and safety equipment includes StabiliTrak stability control, which improves vehicle stability by comparing steering input with the vehicle’s actual path and takes corrective action through the brakes if necessary. Other safety features include available roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both rows of seats, and OnStar telematics with a free 12-month subscription to the Safe and Sound plan.