Incredible Features of the GMC Envoy
The GMC Envoy is spacious enough to have room left after loading it with luggage and fitting your family. That said, the vast SUV has subpar performance and fuel economy. While it has a commendable towing capacity, the quality of the interior furnishings and fittings could be better, especially when you consider the above-average price point when comparing similar vehicles. If you decide to buy an Envoy, here are some factors you must consider:
Performance
Where the SLE and SLT are fitted with 4.2L inline six-cylinder engines, the Denali is equipped with a 5.3L V8 engine resulting in increased power and performance. Both engines deliver a commendable 285 and 300 horsepower, respectively. But a big engine also means mediocre mileage. According to the EPA estimates, the 4.2L engineer has 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on highways. For the 5.3L engine, the numbers go down to 13 mpg and 19 mpg.
Safety
Statistically speaking, the Envoy scored average ratings in terms of safety. Both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded low car scores for frontal impact safety. However, its NHSTA rating for side impacts is far better and is reassuring, considering most mishaps happen due to side impacts.
Alternatively, the car has robust standard safety features. They include electronic stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system, side curtain airbags, and all-disc antilock brakes. Head curtain airbags are also a standard safety feature on the GMC Envoy. The driver has a great front and side view with the Envoy, but the headrest might be an obstruction while changing lanes. The glasses, however, cover up for it to the most extent since they provide good view and area coverage.
Comfort and quality
GMC Envoy has roomy interiors and ample headroom and legroom even for taller passengers. It comes with foldable rear seats and front bucket seats that recline. The car cabin is spacious and can comfortably accommodate five adults. However, it does not have a third-seat option. The power-adjustable pedals are a great feature and allow drivers to adjust quickly.
With foldable rear seats, the Envoy offers a storage space of 80 cubic feet. Keep the seats upright, and you still have approximately 43.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Additional interior storage space includes an open storage bin, an enclosed compartment, and a pair of cupholders adjoining the center console.
Where the GMC Envoy’s control-mounted steering wheel and backlit window buttons add to its quality, the plastic fittings take away from it. Its vast wheels contribute to a smooth and bump-free ride even when the road might make it a difficult-to-achieve goal.
Features
GMC Envoy has three primary trim levels – Denali, SLT, and SLE, and you can choose to configure these with numerous standard and optional features. Some standard features are cruise control, a keyless remote, power liftgate release, tire pressure monitoring, illuminated entry, and dual power mirrors.
The SLT upgrade adds to the above list with an 8-way power driver seat, heated mirror, and digital recorder TravelNote. You can also choose between a 2-wheel drive and a 4-wheel drive. Upgrading to Denali combines standard SLT features with premium leather interiors, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and other styling cues.
Pricing
With a long list of comfort, features, and safety options it provides, you might be curious about the pricing range of this car. To curb your queries, the GMC Envoy’s SLE model is retailed at $31,000 for an all-wheel drive model. But, if you want to go all in, the Denali with all bells and trims attached might cost you upward of $43,000 for all its additional features and bigger wheels. Pricing is one place Envoy falls behind since multiple competing vehicles can be bought for cheaper than this one. But, it also might mean having to compromise on quality and offerings.