2007 GMC Envoy

For 2007, the GMC Envoy and Envoy Denali are available in only one regular wheelbase length; the seven-passenger, extended-wheelbase XL version offered in 2006 has been discontinued.

Other changes include new 18-inch forged aluminum wheels available on the SLE and SLT trim lines; all models receive a standard tire pressure monitoring system; OnStar is now Generation 7 with turn-by-turn navigation; and there are three new colours: Silvermist Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic and Graphite Metallic.

Also appearing as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Buick Rainier and Saab 9-7X, the Envoy uses a 4.2-litre inline six-cylinder and is available in SLE or SLT trim, while the Envoy Denali employs a 5.3-litre V8 with Active Fuel Management, which deactivates half the cylinders under light load for improved fuel economy. Both use a four-speed automatic transmission, and all models are available in two- or four-wheel drive.

The Envoy SLE includes 17-inch aluminum wheels, variable intermittent wipers front and rear, fog lights, heated mirrors, manual dual-zone air conditioning, cruise control, tilt wheel, power windows, cloth seats, CD player, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, and power locks with keyless entry.

The SLT adds automatic dual-zone climate control, leather interior with eight-way heated driver and passenger seats, power-adjustable pedals, mirrors with integrated turn signals and passenger side tip-down, compass, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, and a net, mat and cover for the cargo area.

The Denali adds 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, bright honeycomb grille, running boards, rain-sensing wipers, headlight washers, wood-and-leather steering wheel, premium leather seats with separate back and seat cushion heater controls, and rear automatic load-levelling air suspension.

Available options include MP3 player, XM Satellite Radio, Bose premium sound system, touch-screen navigation or rear-seat DVD system.

With a base price slightly above the Chevrolet, but below the Buick and Saab, the Envoy is a rugged, body-on-frame SUV. Handling tends toward mushiness, though, and interior quality could be better. The V6 works well and will be enough for most buyers; the V8 is very nice, especially with the upgraded interior and option packages, but it’s a considerable step up price-wise. Shop the Envoy against competitors such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango.