The GMC Envoy II XUV, produced for the 2004 and 2005 model years, represented a significant iteration of GMC’s mid-size SUV offering. Built on the GMT305 platform, the XUV (Cross Utility Vehicle) variant aimed to blend the comfort of a traditional SUV with the cargo versatility of a pickup truck, featuring a retractable rear roof. The 5.3i V8 4×4 Automatic configuration was positioned as the premium offering within the Envoy II XUV lineup, providing a balance of power, capability, and features for buyers seeking a robust and well-equipped vehicle. It was GMC’s answer to the growing demand for SUVs capable of both passenger and cargo hauling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Envoy |
| Generation | Envoy II XUV (GMT305) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3i V8 (290 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 441 Nm @ 4000 rpm (325.26 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5900 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LH6 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt, 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 17 l (17.96 US qt, 14.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2287 kg (5041.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2903 kg (6400.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 616 kg (1358.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1387 l (48.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2695 l (95.17 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 94.6 l (24.99 US gal, 20.81 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2903 kg (6400.02 lbs.) |
| Length | 5293 mm (208.39 in.) |
| Width | 1897 mm (74.69 in.) |
| Height | 1956 mm (77.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3275 mm (128.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1603 mm (63.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 34° |
| Departure angle | 23.3° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Envoy II XUV 5.3i 4×4 was the LH6 5.3-liter V8 engine. This engine, a member of GM’s Vortec family, was a robust and well-proven design. It featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, utilizing a 9.5:1 compression ratio and a multi-port fuel injection system. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while traditional, contributed to the engine’s durability and relatively simple maintenance. The 5.3L V8 produced 290 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. This power was delivered to all four wheels through a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission was known for its smooth shifting and reliability, though it lacked the efficiency of more modern transmissions with additional gears. The longitudinal engine placement and 4×4 drivetrain configuration provided enhanced traction and capability, particularly in inclement weather or off-road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 provided ample power for the Envoy II XUV, allowing for confident acceleration and towing capacity. However, the combination of the engine’s weight and the four-speed automatic transmission meant that fuel economy was not a strong point. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to models equipped with a manual transmission (which were not commonly available in this configuration). The XUV’s weight, combined with the automatic transmission, meant that 0-60 mph times were typically in the 7.5-8.5 second range. The 4×4 system provided surefootedness in various conditions, but the vehicle’s size and weight made it feel less nimble than smaller SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Envoy II XUV 5.3i 4×4 Automatic was typically well-equipped, reflecting its position as the premium trim level. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and alloy wheels. The retractable rear roof, a defining feature of the XUV, provided open-air enjoyment and increased cargo versatility. Optional extras included a navigation system, a DVD entertainment system, and upgraded audio options. The interior design was functional and comfortable, though it lacked the sophistication of some European or Japanese competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The Envoy II XUV utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured an independent double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, assisted by an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The braking performance was adequate for the vehicle’s weight, but not particularly sporty. The hydraulic power steering provided a reasonable level of assistance, though it lacked the feel of more modern steering systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Envoy II XUV 5.3i 4×4 Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the engine’s power and the XUV’s versatility were praised, the vehicle’s fuel economy and somewhat dated interior were points of criticism. Compared to other trims in the Envoy II XUV lineup, the 5.3L V8 offered significantly more power and towing capacity than the 4.2L inline-six engine, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 5.3L also commanded a higher price point. Against competitors like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the Envoy II XUV offered a unique combination of SUV comfort and pickup truck utility.
Legacy
The GMC Envoy II XUV, particularly the 5.3i V8 4×4 Automatic variant, has developed a reputation for reliability, though maintenance costs can be higher due to the V8 engine and its associated components. The 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission, while generally durable, can require attention as it ages. Today, these vehicles are often found as affordable used SUVs, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and spacious vehicle for family transportation or light-duty work. The XUV’s unique retractable roof continues to be a desirable feature for those seeking open-air driving enjoyment. While not a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of innovation, the Envoy II XUV 5.3i 4×4 Automatic remains a solid and dependable choice in the used car market.
