Avalanche 1500 models are powered by a 5.3-liter Vortec V8 producing 295 horsepower and 330 pounds-feet of torque. They come with the 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission (with overdrive and tow/haul mode) and are rated to tow 8200 pounds with 2WD, 7900 pounds with 4WD. (Trailer brakes are required.) Published payload capacities are 1313 pounds with 2WD, 1266 pounds with 4WD.

Avalanche comes in only one trim level, and includes a level of luxury equipment associated with premium cars. A few of the amenities that aren't standard are included in the Driver Convenience Package ($540), which adds dual-zone automatic climate control; power adjustable pedals; a HomeLink universal transmitter; steering-wheel-mounted controls for the audio system; and an expanded driver information center. Even more extensive options groups are available, and include a premium Bose stereo with rear-seat controls and headphone jacks; heated side mirrors with a curb-tilt feature, ground illumination and turn signals. Other entertainment options include a rear-seat video entertainment system ($1295-$1485) and XM Satellite Radio ($325). OnStar ($695-$820) and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof ($995-$1290) are available as stand-alone options.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control ($750) is available on premium package 2WD models. Avalanche 1500 4WD can be ordered with Chevrolet's Z71 off-road package ($1955), which combines 265/70R17 on/off-road tires, a high-capacity air cleaner, skid plates, and off-road suspension with a long list of luxury extras.

Avalanche 2500 4WD is powered by the Vortec 8100, an 8.1-liter V8 rated 320 horsepower and 445 pounds-feet of torque. It comes mated to a 4L85-E heavy-duty automatic transmission, also with overdrive and Tow/Haul mode. In place of the 1500 model's five-link rear suspension with coil springs and automatic load leveling, the 2500 rides on two-stage, heavy-duty leaf springs. Towing capacity is boosted to 11,900 pounds, with a payload rating of 1807 pounds.

Relative to the 1500, the 2500 does not add any luxury equipment or interior appointments, but it does come with its own heavy-duty carpeting and rubberized floor mats, a larger (37.5-gallon) fuel tank, a transmission temperature gauge, transmission oil cooler, and skid shields. Wheels are forged rather than cast, and tires are higher-profile 245/75R16s, rather than the 1500's 265/70R16s.