2009 GMC Envoy
The 2008 GMC Envoy ranks 24 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Envoy, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Envoy delivers a spacious interior and outstanding towing capacity. However, it falls short of the handling, reliability and value offered by competitors and ranks near the bottom of its class.
The 2008 GMC Envoy was launched in 2002 to replace the long-running Jimmy. The Envoy receives minor changes for 2008, including the addition of standard XM Satellite Radio and head-curtain airbags. Reviews say it provides a comfortable ride, but complain that its handling and interior quality are below-average. Forbes advises buyers to keep looking if they "want something sportier, more stylish or more reliable." Despite its all-terrain abilities, the Envoy ranks near the bottom of the class when compared only to other off-road SUVs.
The GMC Envoy has three available trims: the base SLE, the SLT, and the top-of-the-line Denali. All models are available as a 2WD or as a 4WD.
* "The current Envoy represents a vast improvement over its predecessor, but ultimately, it doesn't measure up to competitors. While its handsome exterior and roomy interior may attract consumers, GMC needs to come up with a better compromise between cushy ride quality and confident handling; specifically, it should lose some of the former to gain some of the latter." -- Carz Unlimited
* "More than a mere lifestyle accessory, the Envoy proved to have the goods over its year-long evaluation, whatever the chore or journey." -- Motor Trend
Envoy Performance - 7.1 (Good)
The 2008 GMC Envoy receives mixed performance reviews, with New Car Test Drive noting it is "well-engineered and enjoyable to drive, stable and responsive with good brakes and a superb inline six-cylinder engine." However, complaints about the four-speed automatic transmission, sloppy handling, and low fuel economy put the Envoy's performance near the bottom of its class. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn whether or not you should choose the more powerful V8 engine option.
Envoy Exterior - 8.8 (Very Good)
The 2008 GMC Envoy's exterior styling ranks near the top of the class. "Envoy has conservative, upmarket styling, yet has a masculine look that says it's ready to tackle the tough jobs," says Autobytel. "It looks more sophisticated than the TrailBlazer."
Envoy Interior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2008 GMC Envoy gets a good score for its interior, but its cabin still ranks in the bottom half of the class since many of its competitors offer a more refined design. Though the base model probably provides enough equipment for most buyers, note that you'll have to trade up to the other models if you want the optional navigation system or rear-seat DVD system. "On the positive side, loaded up the Envoy can feel as luxurious as almost any passenger car," says About.com. "Most times, it won't even feel like you're driving a truck." Continue with our Interior Review to learn whether those pricey features are worth the money, or check out our interior photos.
Envoy Safety - 6.5 (Mediocre)
The 2008 GMC Envoy gets a mediocre safety score partially because of its somewhat unfavorable crash test ratings. Standard safety equipment includes StabiliTrak electronic stability control and a tire pressure monitoring system. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the Envoy's complimentary year of OnStar services.
Envoy Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 GMC Envoy reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Envoy comes with GM's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Envoy Reliability Review to learn about its powertrain warranty.
The 2008 GMC Envoy ranks 24 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Envoy, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Envoy delivers a spacious interior and outstanding towing capacity. However, it falls short of the handling, reliability and value offered by competitors and ranks near the bottom of its class.
The 2008 GMC Envoy was launched in 2002 to replace the long-running Jimmy. The Envoy receives minor changes for 2008, including the addition of standard XM Satellite Radio and head-curtain airbags. Reviews say it provides a comfortable ride, but complain that its handling and interior quality are below-average. Forbes advises buyers to keep looking if they "want something sportier, more stylish or more reliable." Despite its all-terrain abilities, the Envoy ranks near the bottom of the class when compared only to other off-road SUVs.
The GMC Envoy has three available trims: the base SLE, the SLT, and the top-of-the-line Denali. All models are available as a 2WD or as a 4WD.
* "The current Envoy represents a vast improvement over its predecessor, but ultimately, it doesn't measure up to competitors. While its handsome exterior and roomy interior may attract consumers, GMC needs to come up with a better compromise between cushy ride quality and confident handling; specifically, it should lose some of the former to gain some of the latter." -- Carz Unlimited
* "More than a mere lifestyle accessory, the Envoy proved to have the goods over its year-long evaluation, whatever the chore or journey." -- Motor Trend
Envoy Performance - 7.1 (Good)
The 2008 GMC Envoy receives mixed performance reviews, with New Car Test Drive noting it is "well-engineered and enjoyable to drive, stable and responsive with good brakes and a superb inline six-cylinder engine." However, complaints about the four-speed automatic transmission, sloppy handling, and low fuel economy put the Envoy's performance near the bottom of its class. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn whether or not you should choose the more powerful V8 engine option.
Envoy Exterior - 8.8 (Very Good)
The 2008 GMC Envoy's exterior styling ranks near the top of the class. "Envoy has conservative, upmarket styling, yet has a masculine look that says it's ready to tackle the tough jobs," says Autobytel. "It looks more sophisticated than the TrailBlazer."
Envoy Interior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2008 GMC Envoy gets a good score for its interior, but its cabin still ranks in the bottom half of the class since many of its competitors offer a more refined design. Though the base model probably provides enough equipment for most buyers, note that you'll have to trade up to the other models if you want the optional navigation system or rear-seat DVD system. "On the positive side, loaded up the Envoy can feel as luxurious as almost any passenger car," says About.com. "Most times, it won't even feel like you're driving a truck." Continue with our Interior Review to learn whether those pricey features are worth the money, or check out our interior photos.
Envoy Safety - 6.5 (Mediocre)
The 2008 GMC Envoy gets a mediocre safety score partially because of its somewhat unfavorable crash test ratings. Standard safety equipment includes StabiliTrak electronic stability control and a tire pressure monitoring system. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the Envoy's complimentary year of OnStar services.
Envoy Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 GMC Envoy reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Envoy comes with GM's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Envoy Reliability Review to learn about its powertrain warranty.
