What year did Avalanche get 6 speed?
The Chevrolet Avalanche first received a six-speed automatic in the 2007 model year, as GM rolled out the six-speed family to its full-size pickups and SUVs.
Overall, the Avalanche spanned two generations, and the shift to a six-speed aligned with GM’s broader drivetrain update across its large-truck lineup. Below is a concise look at the timeline, who was affected, and what the change meant for performance.
Timeline: when the 6-speed appeared
Here's a concise timeline showing how the transmission shift unfolded across the Avalanche generations.
- 2002–2006: First-generation Avalanche used a four-speed automatic (the 4L60E family) before GM introduced the six-speed.
- 2007–2013: Second-generation Avalanche introduced the six-speed automatic across most V8 configurations, replacing the older four-speed unit.
- End of production: Avalanche production ended after the 2013 model year, with the six-speed-equipped second generation remaining in use through the end of its run.
In short, the 2007 model year marked the Avalanche’s switch to a six-speed automatic as part of GM’s broader drivetrain update.
What powertrains used the six-speed?
The switch was tied to GM’s Hydra-Matic six-speed family, commonly the 6L80/6L90 transmissions, paired with the Avalanche’s V8 options. The exact gearbox variant varied by engine and trim, but six gears were standard on most V8 configurations in the second generation.
- Common six-speed transmissions used: GM's Hydra-Matic 6L80/6L90 family, deployed across full-size trucks and SUVs in the 2007–2013 window.
- Engines paired with the six-speed included the available V8 options for the Avalanche (e.g., 5.3L V8 and other V8 configurations depending on year and trim).
The change provided smoother shifts, improved highway efficiency, and stronger towing performance, reflecting GM’s aim to modernize its light-truck lineup.
Why this mattered for drivers
For owners and buyers, the move to a six-speed auto generally meant lower RPM at highway speeds, improved fuel economy in typical driving, and better overall drivability during towing and hauling. It also aligned the Avalanche with contemporaries that had already adopted six-speed transmissions, helping resale value and maintenance compatibility with GM’s newer trucks.
In summary, the Chevrolet Avalanche gained a six-speed automatic with the 2007 model year, as GM expanded the six-speed program across its full-size trucks and SUVs. The second generation (2007–2013) carried that transmission through its entire run, in various V8 configurations.
Summary
The Avalanche did not offer a six-speed in the first generation; the upgrade arrived with the 2007 update of the vehicle’s second generation, continuing through 2013. This change aligned the Avalanche with GM’s six-speed strategy for full-size trucks, delivering smoother shifts and better highway efficiency.
When did Avalanche get 6-speed?
2009
For the 2009 model year, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system was added to all Avalanche models, and was integrated with the vehicle's OnStar telematics system, and the 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission was replaced with the 6L80-E unit for both engines.
What transmission does a 5.3 Avalanche have?
Drive every Avalanche in 2013 got a 5.3 L naturally aspirated V8 making 320 horsepower 335 pound- feet of torque they all got a six-speed automatic transmission and you could get either two wheel or
What transmission does a 2012 Avalanche have?
2012 Chevrolet Avalanche LTZ 4WD Last Test
| 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche LTZ | |
|---|---|
| TRANSMISSION | 6-speed automatic |
| CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) | 5930 lbs (52/48%) |
| WHEELBASE | 130.0 in |
| LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT | 221.3 x 79.1 x 76.6 in |
What transmission did the 2004 Avalanche have?
2004 Chevrolet Avalanche 5.3L 2WD/4X4 4L60E Transmission & Conv, Fits | 4237981 | 4L60E Transmission & Converter | Genuine OEM | General Motors.
