Engaging Avalanche comes with 'if onlys'

0 Comments | USA TODAY, April, 2007 | by James R. Healey

Chevrolet Avalanche, a version of the reengineered full-size pickups and SUVs that General Motors began selling late last year, has a remarkably engaging driving persona and could be a terrific truck.

If the back seat had more room. And the front seats were more comfortable. And the fuel economy were better.

And if the price for a deluxe version -- the one with the stuff you want -- weren't creeping so close to $50,000.

Despite those drawbacks, Avalanche has its allure:

*It no longer looks ugly. The redesign that it shares with all of GM's full-size trucks for 2007 helps greatly. Plus, Chevy discontinued the grotesque side cladding.

*It's clever, as always. The modified cargo box has deep, covered side compartments that will...