What's New for the 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche?
Because a redesigned Avalanche is coming to market for 2007 or 2008, few changes are made to the 2006 model. The Avalanche 2500's extending sideview mirrors are revised this year, and the antenna for XM satellite radio and OnStar telematics is combined into a single unit for 2006. A tire pressure monitoring system is also standard on the 2006 Chevy Avalanche.

Advantages of the 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche:

• Brilliant Midgate convert-a-cab system that transforms the Avalanche into a long bed pickup truck
• Plenty of space for five adults and their cargo
• Truly useful do-it-all vehicle
• Strong V8 engine

Objections to the 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche:

• Front seat comfort could be improved
• Interior materials look and feel inexpensive

Editor's Advice:
Forget about other personal-use, full-size crew-cab pickups; the 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche is the best of its breed. The Midgate convert-a-cab system is brilliant and easy to use, changing the Avalanche from a five-passenger SUV with a short, multi-purpose bed into a true long bed pick-'em-up. Those looking for a terrific do-it-all kind of vehicle that can haul the family around during the week, manage Home Depot runs on the weekend, and tow toys to the woods or the lake for vacations need look no further than the 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche.