For immediate release
CHEVROLET AVALANCHE
New for 2011:
 New exterior colors: Steel Green Metallic, Mocha Steel Metallic and Inferno Orange Metallic replace
Laser Blue Metallic and Black Granite Metallic
 Body-color mirrors standard on LS
 Two-speed transfer case standard on LTZ 4WD package (replaces single-speed case)
 Available 20-inch chrome-clad wheels
Model Lineup
Avalanche 2WD
Avalanche 4WD
Key
Standard
Optional
Not available
Engines
Vortec 5.3L V-8
(LMG, LC9)
s (LMG)
s (LC9)
Transmission
6-spd auto
(Hydra-Matic 6L80)
s
s
s
o
–
2011 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE: CAPABILITY, CONVENIENCE AND EFFICIENCY
The Chevrolet Avalanche is one of the industry’s most flexible utility vehicles, combining
the passenger-comfort attributes of a SUV with the cargo capability of a truck. It is based
on GM’s full-size SUV platform, offering flex-fuel capability; a sharp, precise driving feel;
interior refinement and notable quietness. And when it comes to pulling its weight on the
job, it has a maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds (3,674 kg).
Avalanche is powered by an efficient combination that includes the Vortec 5.3L V-8 with
cylinder-deactivating Active Fuel Management technology and a fuel-saving Hydra-Matic
6L80 six-speed automatic. The transmission helps deliver improved highway fuel
mileage by incorporating two overdrive gears (fifth and sixth gears) that allow the engine
to operate at a lower speed on the highway. Less fuel is used when the engine rpm is
lowered, enhancing fuel economy. The lower engine speed also contributes to a quieter
passenger environment.
The 2011 Avalanche is available in LS, LT and LTZ models, with 2WD and 4WD. The
popular Z71 Off Road appearance package is available and includes high-pressure, gas-
charged monotube shocks, 18-inch on/off road tires, automatic-locking differential, front
recovery hooks, a durable skid plate and high-capacity air cleaner. Large, color-keyed
wheel flares, an aggressive front fascia and satin chrome tubular assist steps, and bright
chrome front grille insert provide a one-of-a kind appearance.
Avalanche also delivers useful technology and uncompromising safety features,
including Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity with specific steering wheel controls, an
available rear camera system, head curtain side-impact air bags and StabiliTrak
electronic stability control system. Avalanche offers an integrated brake controller that
works with the ABS system to provide immediate and measured brake force signaling to
electric-controlled trailer brake systems; there is no requirement for external and/or
aftermarket brake control systems.
A range of 17-inch and 20-inch wheels is offered. Seventeen-inch wheels and tires are
standard, with 20-inch factory-installed wheels available (standard on LTZ; available on
LT). The larger wheels fill Avalanche’s wheelhouses, giving the vehicle a confident
stance.
Midgate flexibility
Avalanche’s flexibility enables it to function as an SUV, truck or both, thanks to the
exclusive Midgate. Pioneered on the first-generation Avalanche, the Midgate opens to
extend the cargo-carrying capability from the cargo bed’s 5-foot-3-inch-long (1.6 m)
length to 8 feet 2 inches (2.5 m). The rear seat must be folded to achieve maximum
storage capability; with the rear seat up and the Midgate closed, Avalanche has room for
up to six passengers.
When the Midgate is open and the rear seat is folded flat, Avalanche can carry 4-foot by
8-foot (1.2 m by 2.4 m) sheets of plywood with the tailgate closed. Storage
compartments alongside the cargo box provide ample and lockable storage. The storage
compartments also have drains, so they can be filled with ice and used as coolers. A
three-piece rigid cargo cover with interlocking panels also is available.
Avalanche’s flexible attributes also include a central-locking tailgate and cargo cover
retaining straps. Also, the tailgate is spring-loaded to reduce the effort needed to open or
close it.
A refined and flexible interior
Avalanche’s interior delivers a high level of refinement, comfort, quality and
convenience. The front seats are comfortable and allow easy entry/egress. The rear seat
is unique to the Avalanche and enables easy access to the Midgate system. The seat
folds flat, allowing longer items to be carried between the cargo bed and into the rear
passenger compartment.
Avalanche’s spacious interior creates an environment that exudes quality and precision.
Flush-mounted accessories and controls, such as the climate control/radio center stack,
create a seamless, “single unit” appearance. Also, there is almost no exposed metal
hardware or latches, as all models feature enclosing “close-outs” around the seat
bottoms and door sill trim plates. Comfort features include an efficient HVAC system,
and generous storage capability – with the segment’s largest center console storage bin,
a large glove box and numerous storage compartments. Avalanche also offers a host of
available convenience features, including:

Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist

Remote vehicle starting

Driver information center

Tri-zone automatic HVAC

Rearview camera system

Touch-screen navigation system

DVD rear-seat entertainment system with eight-inch screen that can play videos
stored on iPods.
Avalanche also features an impressive audio/navigation lineup, which provides quality
entertainment and information. GM’s family of CD/MP3-compatible radios leads the
audio lineup, with an available DVD entertainment system that includes an eight-inch
screen (with in-dash loading). A touch-screen navigation radio is available and
incorporates the monitor for the rearview camera system.
Full-size foundation
The Avalanche is built on GM’s full-size SUV platform, incorporating a fully boxed frame,
coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, and a premium interior
that bolster the vehicle’s comfort, quality and capability. Wide front and rear tracks
enhance handling and vehicle stability for a more confident road feel.
A stiff frame reduces vibrations transmitted to the passenger cabin, while the strength
and accuracy of the fully boxed frame also enable precise mounting and tuning of
chassis and suspension components. Even the tires on the large, 17-inch and 20-inch
wheels were designed to reduce noise.
Noise-reducing components and materials are used throughout the body structure,
including the headliner material, door seals and front-of-dash area. The engines also
feature a quiet-tuned alternator and an acoustically tuned engine cover that reduce
engine noise heard inside the vehicle. The door seals help reduce seal “pull-away” at
highway speeds, which can cause wind noise.
The Autoride suspension system, standard on LTZ, complements Avalanche’s quietness
and smoothness. This segment-exclusive bi-state, real-time damping system provides
an extremely refined ride with greatly reduced body motion. The system consists of a
semi-active, two-position damping control system that responds in real time to road and
driving conditions, based on body and wheel motion sensors.
Safety
The Avalanche offers standard head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for
both rows and front-seat safety belt pretensioners that are linked to the vehicle's sensing
system to provide segment-exclusive deployment in rear-end crashes. The roof-mounted
head curtain air bags include design features that provide increased rollover protection
and occupant containment. These head curtain side air bags stay inflated longer than air
bags developed only for side impacts, since rollover incidents can last longer. The
deployment duration and other design features of the air bags combine to provide
increased occupant protection and the ability to help keep occupants inside the vehicle.
Additional safety features include:

Standard StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology

Standard dual-stage driver front air bag

Standard dual-stage outboard-front passenger air bag with passenger
sensing system

Standard tire pressure monitoring system

Available Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that can detect certain stationary
objects in the rearward path of the vehicle and send an audible warning sound
and display via three LEDs near the rear window

Available rearview camera system designed to provide the driver with
a view of people or objects in the rearward path of the vehicle.
LS models come standard with OnStar and a six-month Directions and Connections
plan, which includes Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist and
Stolen Vehicle Assistance featuring Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. The Direction and
Connections plan also includes Turn-By-Turn Navigation.
###
For immediate release
SPECIFICATIONS
Overview
Models:
Body style / driveline:
Construction:
EPA vehicle class:
Manufacturing locations:
Key competitors:
Chevrolet Avalanche LS, LT and LTZ
4-door sport utility vehicle/pickup, front-engine, 2WD or 4WD, half-ton
models
body on frame
half-ton truck
Silao, Mexico
Ford Super Crew, Dodge Ram Quad Cab
Engines
Type:
Displacement (cu in / cc):
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
Block material:
Cylinder head material:
Valvetrain:
Ignition system:
Fuel delivery:
Compression ratio:
Horsepower (hp/ kW @
rpm):
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):
Fuel:
Max. engine speed (rpm):
Emissions controls:
EPA estimated fuel
economy (city / hwy):
Vortec 5.3L V-8 FlexFuel
(LMG)
5.3L V-8
325 / 5328
3.78 x 3.62 / 96 x 92
cast iron
cast aluminum
overhead valve, two valves per
cylinder, variable valve timing,
Active Fuel Management
coil-near-plug ignition, iridium
electrode tip/ iridium core
spark plugs, low resistance
spark plug wires
sequential fuel injection
9.9:1
320 / 239 @ 5400* (gas)
326 / 243 @ 5300* (E85)
335 / 454 @ 4000* (gas)
348 / 472 @ 4400* (E85)
regular unleaded or E85
6000
close-coupled catalytic
converter, 58X ignition,
returnless fuel rail, fastresponse O²
sensor
14 / 20 (gas)
10 / 15 (E85)
Vortec 5.3L V-8 FlexFuel
(LC9)
5.3L V-8
325 / 5328
3.78 x 3.62 / 96 x 92
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
overhead valve, two valves per
cylinder, variable valve timing,
Active Fuel Management
coil-near-plug ignition, iridium
electrode tip/ iridium core
spark plugs, low resistance
spark plug wires
sequential fuel injection
9.9:1
320 / 239 @ 5400* (gas)
326 / 243 @ 5300* (E85)
335 / 454 @ 4000* (gas)
348 / 472 @ 4400* (E85)
regular unleaded or E85
6000
close-coupled catalytic
converter, 58X ignition,
returnless fuel rail, fastresponse O²
sensor
14 / 20 (gas)
10 / 15 (E85)
Transmission
Hydra-Matic 6L80, six-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1):
First:
Second:
Third:
Fourth:
Fifth:
Sixth:
Reverse:
Final drive ratio:
4.03
2.36
1.53
1.15
0.85
0.67
3.06
3.08 (std.); 3.42 (opt.)
Chassis / Suspension
Front:
independent, coil over shock; Autoride real-time damping
(std. on LTZ)
Rear:
Traction assist:
Steering type:
Steering ratio:
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):
five-link with coil springs; Autoride real-time damping (std.
on LTZ)
all-speed traction control
power-assisted rack-and-pinion
17.75:1
3
43.0 / 13.1
Brakes
Type:
Rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm):
four-wheel disc, four-wheel ABS
front: 13 x 1.18 / 330.2 x 30
rear: 13.5 x .787 / 345 x 20
Wheels / Tires
Wheel size and type:
Tires:
17 x 7.5-inch machined cast aluminum, silver sparkle accent (LS, LT)
18 x 8.0-inch machined aluminum (Z71 package)
20 x 8.5-inch polished aluminum (opt. LS, LT; std. LTZ)
20 x 8.5-inch chrome clad (opt. LTZ)
P265/70R17 blackwall Goodyear AL2 (all-season) steel belt radials
P265/70R17 blackwall Bridgestone OOR (on-off-road) steel belt radials
(export only)
P265/65R18 blackwall Bridgestone OOR (on-off-road) steel belt radials
P265/65R18 blackwall Bridgestone AL2 (all-season) steel belt radials
(export only)
P275/55R20 blackwall Bridgestone AL2 (all-season) steel belt radials
Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm):
Overall length (in / mm):
Overall width (in / mm):
Overall height (in / mm):
Track (in / mm):
Minimum ground clearance (in / mm):
Step-in height (in / mm):
Ground to top of cargo floor (in / mm):
Approach angle (deg):
Departure angle (deg):
Curb weight (lb / kg):
Weight distribution (% front / rear):
130 / 3302
221.3 / 5621
79.1 / 2009
76.6 / 1946
front: 68.2 / 1732
rear: 67.0 / 1702
2WD: 9.1 / 230
4WD: 9.1 / 230
2WD: 21.9 / 555
4WD: 22.2 / 563
2WD: 32.2 / 819
4WD: 32.5 / 825
2WD: 16.78
4WD: 16.64
2WD: 20.05
4WD: 20.31
2WD: 5478 / 2485
4WD: 5645 / 2560
2WD: 51 / 49
4WD: 52 / 48
Interior
Seating capacity (6 total):
Headroom (in / mm):
Legroom (in / mm):
Shoulder room (in / mm):
First Row
2/3
41.1 / 1043.2
41.3 / 1048.9
65.3 / 1657.9
Second Row
2/3
40 / 1014.9
39.1 / 1048.9
65.2 / 1657.3
Hip room (in / mm):
Cargo length behind 1st row, Midgate closed (in / mm):
Cargo volume (cu ft / L)
Behind 1st row, 2nd row folded, Midgate closed:
Behind 1st row, 2nd row folded, Midgate open:
64.4 / 1636.7
31.8 / 806.8
54.3 / 1537.3
101 / 2859.1
Cargo box
Cargo length – bed, Midgate closed (in / mm):
Cargo length – behind 1st row, Midgate open (in / mm):
Cargo width at wheelhouse (in / mm):
Cargo height – max. inside w/ Midgate open (in / mm):
Cargo height – open bed (in / mm):
Cargo height – w/bed cover (in / mm):
Cargo volume, open bed, Midgate closed (cu ft / L):
63.3 /1609.1
98.2 / 2493
50.0 / 1270.4
47.4 / 1204.7
25.0 / 634.7
22.6 / 574.5
45.5 / 1289.1
Capacities
GVWR: (lb / kg):
Payload, base (lb / kg):
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg):
Fuel tank (gal / L):
Engine oil (qt / L):
Cooling system (qt / L):
2WD: 7000 / 3175
4WD: 7200 / 3266
2WD: 1320 / 598
4WD: 1350 / 612
2WD: 8100 / 3674
4WD: 7900 / 3583
31.5 / 119.2
6 / 5.7
16.8 / 15.9
*SAE certified.
Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.
61.8 / 1570.1