Engine: 5.3-liter ohv 16-valve V8

Engine Options: 295-hp 5.3-liter ohv V8; 320-hp 8.1-liter ohv V8

Transmission: 4-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 4-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: ABS, dual-stage front airbags, LATCH child-seat anchors

Optional Safety Equipment: traction control, StabiliTrak electronic stability program

Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled In: Silao, Mexico

Model Tested: Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 2WD ($33,320)

Standard Equipment: dual-zone air conditioning, AM/FM/CD stereo, three-piece cargo cover, black rubber cargo mat, integrated top boxes in bed for storage, charcoal body cladding, overhead console, rear-window defogger, driver message center, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, two power outlets, cruise control, remote keyless entry with two transmitters, tilt steering column with leather-wrapped steering wheel, trailer wiring harness with seven-pin connector, intermittent windshield wipers

Options as Tested: LT Group ($4,040) includes dual-zone automatic climate control; bucket seats with ten-way power adjustment; floor console; six-disc CD changer; Bose premium sound system with headphone jacks and rear-seat controls; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; power adjustable pedals; HomeLink transmitter; OnStar; ground-illuminating side mirrors with auto-dimming on the driver's side; compass and outside temperature indicator on the inside rear-view mirror; heavy-duty trailering equipment

Destination Charge: 850

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: rear-wheel drive

Horsepower: 295 @ 5200

Torque: 330 @ 4000

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 14/18

Wheelbase: 130.0 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 221.7/79.8/73.6 inches

Track Front/Rear: 65.0/66.0 inches

Turning Cycle: 43.3 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 40.7/61.4/41.3 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 38.6/62.0/38.9 inches

Trunk Volume: 53.9 cubic feet

Payload: 1363

Suspension, f: independent, short and long control arms, torsion bars

Ground Clearance: 8.6 inches

Curb Weight: 5437 pounds

Towing Capacity: 8200 pounds

Tires: P265/70R16

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS

Fuel Capacity: 31.0 Gallons