2009 GMC Envoy

The GMC Envoy (nearly identical sibling of the Chevy Trailblazer and Isuzu Ascender) sports curtain airbags and XM satellite radio as standard equipment for 2008. The mid-size, five-passenger SUV is powered by a 4.2 liter inline-six that sends power through a four-speed automatic exclusively.

The smooth inline six is rated at 285 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 276 lb-ft of torque at 4,600 rpm. Fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway for the rear-wheel drive model and 15 / 21 mpg, respectively, on 4WD models.

Four wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard across all three trim levels - SLE (with 3SA package), SLE (with 3SB package) and SLT (with 4SA package) as is GM's StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control.

Towing capacities are 5,300 lbs from the showroom floor and with the standard 3.42:1 axle with a maximum of 5,800 lbs when equipped with the optional 3.73:1 axle for the two-wheel drive model, with both of those numbers dropping by 100 lbs when the buyer opts for 4WD.

The SLE 3SA package includes manual dual-zone climate control, heavy duty trailering equipment, Luxury Ride suspension package and all power goodies. Wheels at 17-inch aluminum alloy rims.

The 3SB package adds an overhead console, roof-mounted luggage rack, auto-dimming rearview mirror with eight-point compass and outside temperature indicator, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, a universal home remote transmitter and highly polished 17-inch wheels.

The SLT trim adds a premium Bose speaker system, automatic dual-zone climate controls, leather wrapped steering wheel, Driver Information Center, headlamp washers, an 8-way power adjustable passenger seat, heated front seats and 18-inch highly polished alloy wheels, as the major upgrades.

Note-worthy options include a rear-seat entertainment package, Sun & Sound package that includes a sunroof and Bose speaker system, heavy-duty locking rear differential, power adjustable pedals, standalone sunroof and running boards.