Suspension parts for GMC Envoy.
The current second-generation Envoy has been around since 2002 and hasn’t changed much, which should make your used-car shopping easier. Initially, it was offered only with the inline-6 engine, but in two body styles: regular five-passenger and extended-wheelbase Envoy XL, which provided seven-passenger seating and considerably more cargo capacity. The V8 became available on the Envoy air suspension in 2003 and on the regular Envoy for 2005. That year also saw head curtain airbags replace the front side bags, while stability control and cruise control joined the standard equipment list for ‘06. The Envoy XL was discontinued for 2007.
An unusual model called the GMC Envoy XUV was offered in 2004 and ‘05. A modern-day take on the Studebaker Wagonaire, the XUV was an Envoy XL stripped of its third-row seat and fitted with a retractable roof over its cargo bay. The result was a vehicle that could function as both a true SUV and a pickup. In practice, though, the multitalented but odd-looking Envoy XUV proved to be a tough sell to consumers.
The first-generation GMC Envoy air suspension are sold from 1998-2000 (there was no ‘01 model). It was little more than an upscale version of the midsize GMC Jimmy, which debuted in ‘95, and was equipped much like today’s Denali. The extra amount of features didn’t mask its aged chassis and old-tech V6, however, and the two together delivered a mushy ride quality and lackluster acceleration at highway speeds. Other complaints included numb steering, suspension, a large turning radius and poor brake feel. Although these early Envoys are inexpensive to buy on the used market, subpar reliability keeps us from recommending them, even to buyers interested in an old-school, truck-based SUV.