2009 GMC Envoy

GMCs SUVs and trucks are versions of Chevrolets with different badges, different styling, and some extra luxury features. Overall, though, GMCs don’t often stand out, equipment-wise, from their mechanical siblings. Like many Chevrolets, GMC vehicles’ interiors are spacious and comfortable thanks to large exterior dimensions. Its SUVs range from compact models like the Terrain up to the three-row Yukon XL, which can carry up to nine passengers and their luggage—no small feat. GMC’s pickup truck line ranges from midsized models like the Canyon and the popular Sierra 1500, and goes all the way up to commercial-grade “dually” trucks with four rear wheels. The brand has also begun introducing EVs, including an all-electric pickup and the enormous, heavy Hummer EV, which is sold as either a pickup or SUV. Both used and new GMC models rank below average in Consumer Reports’ ratings for predicted reliability.

The Envoy is a five-passenger SUV that also came in an extended seven-passenger version, as well as in the form of a versatile cargo wagon called the Envoy XUV. This configuration offers a sliding rear roof to haul tall cargo. Envoy's ride is compliant and the six-cylinder engine is powerful, though it only returned 15 mpg in our testing. A V8 is also available. Envoy corners clumsily, with lots of body lean. A stability-control system was added as standard equipment starting in 2006. This made emergency handling more secure. However, the front seats aren't comfortable and the seat-mounted safety belts are annoying to use. The Envoy was discontinued after 2009.