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 an SUV with the cargo versatility of a pickup truck, featuring a retractable rear roof. The 4.2i 24V (275 Hp) 4×4 Automatic configuration was positioned as the premium engine and drivetrain option within the Envoy II XUV lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and features for buyers seeking a well-equipped and capable SUV. It was a short-lived model, discontinued after 2005, but left a mark as a unique offering in the early 2000s SUV market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Envoy |
| Generation | Envoy II XUV (GMT305) |
| Type | 4.2i 24V (275 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) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 275 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 3600 rpm (275.11 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LL8 |
| Engine displacement | 4160 cm3 (253.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.1 l (13.84 US qt | 11.53 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%) | 2585 kg (5698.95 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 4.2i 4×4 was the LL8 engine, a 4.2-liter (4160 cc) inline-six cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of GM’s Atlas family of inline-six engines, known for their relatively smooth operation and decent power output. The LL8 featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its 24-valve configuration. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produced 275 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 373 Nm (275.11 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and the 4×4 drivetrain configuration meant it was designed for robust performance and all-weather capability.
The engine was paired with a Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission by 2004 standards, it was a proven unit known for its durability. The gear ratios were tuned to provide a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, though the XUV’s weight and engine displacement meant fuel economy was not a strong suit. The automatic transmission contributed to the XUV’s ease of driving, making it accessible to a wider range of drivers.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2L engine and 4-speed automatic combination in the Envoy II XUV delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was reasonable for its size and weight, but it wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly, but lacked the responsiveness of a manual transmission or a more modern automatic with more gears. The 4×4 system provided good traction in various conditions, making it suitable for light off-roading and inclement weather. Compared to the base 4.2L engine with rear-wheel drive, the 4×4 version offered improved stability and control, but at the expense of some fuel economy. The XUV’s weight was noticeable, especially during braking and cornering, but the suspension did a decent job of mitigating body roll.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Envoy II XUV 4.2i 4×4 Automatic was generally well-equipped, reflecting its position as the premium trim level. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and alloy wheels. The retractable rear roof was a defining feature of the XUV, providing open-air driving and increased cargo capacity. Optional extras included a navigation system, a DVD entertainment system, and upgraded audio options. The interior design was functional and comfortable, with a focus on practicality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Envoy II XUV featured a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This suspension configuration aimed to provide a comfortable ride and decent handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, providing responsive and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Envoy II XUV was generally well-received by critics, who praised its unique retractable roof and spacious interior. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, as was its relatively high price compared to other mid-size SUVs. Compared to other Envoy trims, the 4.2i 4×4 Automatic offered significantly more power and capability, but also came with a higher price tag and lower fuel economy. Against competitors like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the XUV stood out with its unique roof design and more upscale interior.
Legacy
The GMC Envoy II XUV was a relatively short-lived model, but it remains a unique and interesting vehicle in the early 2000s SUV landscape. The LL8 engine, while not known for exceptional reliability, proved to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. Today, the Envoy II XUV is a relatively affordable used SUV, appealing to buyers seeking a spacious, capable, and somewhat unusual vehicle. Its unique retractable roof and robust construction continue to make it a desirable option for those looking for a distinctive SUV.
