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Avalanche
This innovative SUV/pickup hybrid is based on the Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL tandem and shares platforms and components with the Cadillac Escalade EXT and the new HUMMER H2 SUT. While it looks like a full-size crew cab pickup with an enclosed bed and more-expressive styling, the Avalanche is much more versatile than most short-bed trucks, thanks to its innovative Convert-a-Cab System. Here, the rear seat folds flat, the back window and the bed cover stow, and the midgate lowers to create an open-air full-size pickup with a standard eight-foot bed. Power comes from either a 285-horsepower 5.3-liter V-8 in the 1500 series, or a 340-hp 8.1-liter V-8 that produces a stump-pulling 455 pounds-foot of torque in the 2500. GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability system is offered as optional equipment. GM's OnStar safety and security system becomes standard for 2005, with steering wheel-mounted radio controls likewise newly included on all models, with a driver information center fitted that tracks up to 34 system functions in English, Spanish, or French. Power-adjustable pedals are now available with most equipment packages, and a Homelink garage door opener is standard on all models except the base LS. A touch-screen navigation radio feature is newly offered for '05, and the base version can now be fitted with an exterior package that includes chrome trim on the door handles and outside mirror caps, and stainless steel step-assist rails.
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