Summary
What Edmunds.com says
If you're looking for true seven-passenger capacity and serious cargo space in a midsize SUV, the Envoy XL has the competition beat.
Pros
Strong six- or eight-cylinder power, clean interior design, plenty of passenger and cargo room.
Cons
Spongy suspension, numb steering, odd exterior proportions.
What's New for 2003
For 2003, Envoy XL buyers are able to order options individually, rather than as part of an equipment package, adding potential savings and increased flexibility. The sport-ute's already powerful 4.2-liter inline six engine also gets a slight bump in horsepower, up from 270 to 275; XL buyers seeking increased low-end torque, greater cargo-hauling and trailering capability and speedier acceleration may step up to the newly offered 5.3-liter V8, which spews 290 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, Envoy XLs now boast a new four-position headlamp switch that permits drivers to turn off the vehicle's daytime running lamps and automatic headlamps when necessary.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Good purchase
Vehicle
2003 GMC Envoy XL SLE Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I've had this SUV for over 6.5 years, have 95,000 miles and never had any major issues. There were a couple of recalls early on but I've had it paid for over a year now and have never had to take it to the shop other than an oil change and only 2 tires. I haven't even had to replace the brakes yet. I have no plans on replacing this car. I plan to drive it until it dies and hopefully that will be for another 95k miles.
Favorite Features
Take-off speed, reliability
Suggested Improvements
Takes too long for rear vents to blow hot air when heater on
I will not buy another GMC Envoy!
Vehicle
2003 GMC Envoy XL SLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Bought this SUV in 2005. It is now 2009. Mind you I have only had this car for 3 years and have already experienced this many problems. When I first bought, right off the bat I had to put new brakes on it. In which I had to purchase myself (dealer did not pay for replacing them the day that I bought it). That should have told me something right there. Well, few days later, I notice the emergency brake doesn't work either. Shortly after, my air conditioning motor quit working. That cost me over $500.00. Then the stereo speaker wiring started to mess up. Now, I listen to my stereo with only 2 front speakers. Now in 2009, I am already replacing the brakes and rotors again. It has 70,000 miles.
Favorite Features
4 wheel drive.
Suggested Improvements
More and better cup holders.
Overall Performance
Vehicle
2003 GMC Envoy XL SLE 4WD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
Review
As a Field Service Engr for a competitive car company, the overall style sold me, but the comfort and fuel economy has made me a believer! With a tow capacity of 6800# fuel economy after break-in now delivers 16.8 cty/21.5 hwy and 11.0 when towing 54000#. With 62,000 miles the vehicle this vehicle is still solid and drives like new with a ride that is very hard to beat unless you drive a large Yukon. Having serviced the Detroit Metro circuit and performed competive bench mark drive studies, it was always a joy driving home as the comfort of this vehicle, and passenger capacity exceeds most dometic cars. Even with the intro of the new hybrids, it's hard to beat the overall investment.
Favorite Features
Overall ride is really good. GM exceeded the customers expectations for the Best in Class components in the powertrain design along with the development of the 4.2 4 valve, dual cam engine design. Outstanding power train!
Suggested Improvements
In 2003 this unit did not have a map light in the overhead consul but GM has since incorporated into this vehicle in later model years released design.
2003 Envoy XL SLT 4WD
Vehicle
2003 GMC Envoy XL SLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Love the Envoy, have had it for about 6 years and at 79000 miles no major problems. I have 5 kids and it is a great fit for us. I have thought about getting an Enclave but love the Envoy too much. It could do a little better on gas but its still not bad, we take a long trip every year and the is lots of room for us and our stuff. Buy one!
Favorite Features
The heated seats, running boards, six disk, and DVD.
Suggested Improvements
None
trouble free driving
Vehicle
2003 GMC Envoy XL SLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
Review
good riding,like a car,not truck reliable eye appeal smart new styling proud ownership you'll love it..
Favorite Features
heated seats,yes,even in arizona,winters visability great comfortable seating, all of them
Suggested Improvements
can't think of any
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