Monday, April 21, 2008

2008 Chevrolet Avalanche - the family cross-over SUV/Pick Up with todays environmental credentials

Since it’s launch onto the market in 2002 it has been a popular choice for families requiring a comfortable multi purpose vehicle with the space and accommodation unrivalled in other vehicles.
American Car Imports works as an independent importer, importing the Chevrolet Avalanche for specific customers in the UK .
In addition, its unique facility - the mid-gate, referring to the removable panel that separates the passenger cabin from the pick up bed. The rear window and panel separating the cabin from the bed can be opened up, either partly by flipping down the midgate wall so it is possible to pass-through items from the bed to the cabin, or completely by removing the rear window. This changes the Avalanche from a six-passenger crew cab pickup with a 5-foot, 3-inch pick up bed to a three-passenger pickup with an approximate 8-foot pick up bed. The procedure is straightforward takes only a couple minutes. Additional features include removable cargo covers and lockable storage compartments along the exterior of the cargo box.

In 2007 Chevrolet completely redesigned the Avalanche and the result is a class leading vehicle with high quality materials, plenty of cabin space, many convenience features and the latest in safety equipment. The new Avalanche improves on most of the previous model's deficiencies. Interior fit and finish is now excellent as soft-touch materials, tight gap tolerances and stylish design are present. In profile it looks very much an up-to-date vehicle. Not only does the vehicle look good but it offers improved aerodynamics as the Avalanche slices through the wind nearly as efficiently as some sport coupes.

With its powerful 5.3 litre V8 OHV SMPI 310 bhp, 16 valve Flex-Fuel engine with cylinder de-activation the vehicle is one of a new breed of Green vehicles introduced by GM able to run on both regular unleaded fuel or the new E85, ethanol and plant based alternative. Changes to the chassis have evolved and are subtle, they are nevertheless significant. Chevrolet says that body stiffness has been increased significantly; the old front torsion-bar suspension has been replaced by a suppler coil-spring layout. Re-circulating-ball steering has been superseded by a more accurate hydraulic power assisted rack and pinion system; the ABS-controlled four-wheel disc brakes are larger and more powerful than on the previous model.

This is one large American Car that can offer seating for up to six passengers in comfort, has a huge interior and a powerful standard V8 engine, along with the versatility not offered in other vehicles.

There are three equipment levels in the Avalanche LS, LT and LTZ. The standard LS, includes a split bench front seat, full power accessories (including six-way driver seat), dual-zone climate control, an MP3-capable CD player and a trip computer as standard features. The LT is available in three trim levels:- LT-1, LT-2 and LT-3. To the LS specification the LT-1 adds steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, front bucket seats with a centre console, fog lamps and colour-keyed exterior trim. The LT-2 adds leather seating, 6-disc CD changer, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starting and rear parking assist. The top of the range LT-3 has heated front seats (with 12-way driver adjustment), BOSE audio system. Moving up to the LTZ you would have 20-inch alloy wheels, heated second-row seats, locking rear differential, power lift-gate, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding second-row seats, third-row seat and the Autoride rear air suspension. Many of these features are available on the other trim levels as options. Other options for the Avalanche include a navigation system, a rear-view camera and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Standard equipment on all Avalanche models includes, stability control and a tire-pressure monitoring system. A three-row side curtain airbag system with a rollover sensor is standard on the LT-3 and LTZ and optional on all other Avalanche’s.

Those who have owned a previous model Avalanche will be pleasantly surprised by the new version's use of high-quality materials, very good fit and ergonomically designed control layouts. The Avalanche is nimble; it can reach 60 mph in less than 9 seconds. The vehicle has a new suspension with coil-over shock absorbers in the front and a five-link set-up in the rear and along with rack and pinion steering makes for a more composed handling and a smoother ride than before. The cabin is quiet at speed, and the ride is comfortable and controlled over bumps.

The new 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is proving to be very popular in the UK and Europe. If you have a requirement for such a vehicle American Car Imports can help you. For more details they can be contacted on 44 (0) 20 8889 4545.

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