NEW FOR 2012: - TBA Based on GM’s full-size SUV platform, the Avalanche uses a 5.3-litre V8 with Active Fuel Management, which shuts off half the cylinders under light load for improved fuel economy, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is capable of running on E85 ethanol fuel. The Avalanche is rated as a one-ton crew cab truck. The LS and LT trim levels come in two- or four-wheel drive, while the LTZ is 4WD only. Also the basis for the Cadillac Escalade EXT, the Avalanche uses a “Midgate” between the cabin and box. It opens to extend the cargo bed length from 1600 mm to 2500 mm. The cargo box also contains lockable storage compartments with drains. Features on the LS include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone manual air conditioning, assist steps, three-piece composite stowable tonneau cover, rubber cargo mat, privacy glass, heated mirrors, front recovery hooks, variable intermittent wipers, cruise control, floor mats, driver information centre, tire pressure monitoring system, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, power windows with driver’s express down, 20/40/20 cloth seat with six-way power driver’s adjustment, second-row 60/40 split-folding seat, CD/MP3 stereo with USB connector, XM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, trailer tow package, remote starter, power locks with keyless entry, automatic headlamps, OnStar, and theft deterrent system. The LT adds dual-zone automatic climate control, fog lamps, centre console, remote vehicle starter, heavy-duty locking differential, rear seat audio controls and headphone jacks, cloth bucket seats with six-way power driver’s adjustment, colour-keyed door handles, and OnStar with Turn by Turn Navigation. The LTZ adds 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, chrome door handles, bright chrome grille mesh insert, power-folding mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming, reverse tip-down and integrated turn signals, roof rails and crossbars, heated washer fluid system, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, heated and cooled perforated leather twelve-way power seats, driver’s side memory, six-CD/MP3 stereo, Bose premium seven-speaker system, AutoRide air assist suspension with rear auto-level control, and rear parking assist.
