2008 Chevrolet Avalanche
The 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is classified as a “sport utility truck.” The unique “sport utility truck” name comes from its truck-like carrying capacity, with four-doors and six-seats; but it also features the comfortable interior design of conventional Sports Utility Vehicles on the market. The real reason the Avalanche is deemed a sports utility truck is its convenient Midgate; this separates the passenger compartment and the pick-up bed. The rear bench seat can fold forward and increase the pick-up bed to eight feet in length. You can even remove the rear glass panel, instantly transforming it to an open-air truck that has enough space to transport larger items, such as a pool table or an ATV. When I had the pleasure of driving the Avalanche, I finally had the opportunity to move the foosball table at my parents’ house to my apartment!
The new model comes in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. You also have the option of 2-wheel drive or a 4-wheel. The specs of the 2008 model are what really shine. When I was told that the standard engine was a 310hp 5.3L V8 engine, I knew I was dealing with a powerful piece of machinery. Keep in mind a 6.0L V8 engine is also an optional feature. One could be fooled into thinking they’re not actually driving when the Avalanche is in motion; it’s that smooth. A 4-speed automatic transmission is standard, as well as the added hauling ratio and overdrive features; no wonder it drives so fluidly.
The interior is also a luxurious experience to be had. You could almost live inside the passenger compartment with the climate control air system; and you have loads of storage space and other similar perks to keep the passengers pleased. Some of these perks include the handy array of instruments to supervise the cars operating parameters. You have a tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure gauge, engine temperature gauge and an ammeter, all at the driver’s seat! On top of all of this, the car is equipped with 4 12-volt auxiliary outlets.
Being a supporter of the Green Party ideals, I can’t help but be drawn to the Avalanche. You might think that is bizarre, considering the vehicle is a colossal-sized sport utility truck; but Chevrolet managed to make this product Green friendly. The newest Avalanche offers E85 Flex Fuel capable models. To those who are unfamiliar with the term, E85 Flex Fuel is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline which reduces a cars CO2 emission. This reduces our reliance on oil, and ultimately contributes to the slow process of filtering the earth’s air. Another earth-friendly feature worth mentioning is the Active Fuel Management option on some models. This causes the eight-cylinder configuration to decrease to four-cylinder, which in effect saves fuel. Pretty eco-smart for such a large vehicle I’d say.
Along with being useful, luxurious and green-friendly, the Avalanche also offers numerous safety features. The vehicles come standard with drive and front passenger airbags. Not only are these standard features available, but there are also rear passenger side-impact airbags; the travelers in the front seats aren’t the only ones who need protection. Add the rollover sensor, rain-sensing wiper system, tire pressure monitor, and ultrasonic rear parking assist in addition to an array of other features, and this vehicle can make anyone feel safer about being on the road.
One other feature worth mentioning is the off-road styling options, one of which being the wheel well flare option. This advantageous feature can also get you out of some those sticky situations we as drivers can’t seem to avoid sometimes. All of the mentioned traits of the Avalanche are great, but let’s not forget one main advantage of this model; it makes you feel pretty strong and important driving this road warrior around.
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