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2004 Envoy SLT XUV 4WD Road Test

XL Unlimited Versatility

In todays acronym-crazy world of automotive nomenclature, I believe XUV is intended to represent, "crossover utility vehicle." Meaning that the vehicles intended function crosses over multiple lines of traditional functionality. In the case of the 2004 GMC Envoy XUV, the "UV" part of the acronym may just as well stand for, "ultra versatility."

GM took a bold step in 2001 with the launch of Chevys switch-hitting Avalanche 4x4 pickup. In this ambidextrous design, the rear wall of the cab and the rear seat fold flat enabling large items to be carried in the combined space of the rear portion of the cab and the vehicles pickup style box. This combination granted the union of full-size cargo carrying

The XUV, like other crossover vehicles, blurs the lines between traditional functionality and classes. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

dimensions with full-size human carrying capacity, sans the unmanageable length resulting from the more conventional union of a full size pickup bed with a crew cab.

Snapping at the heels of the successful Avalanche is GMs Envoy XUV, which ratchets-up the "utility quotient" to a new high. Essentially, this mid-size converts from the ordinary to the extraordinary

The mid-size Envoy XUV converts from the ordinary to the extraordinary with the flick of a button or two. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

with the flick of a button or two. All the action takes place in the rear cargo area of the Envoy. The rear window lowers itself into the two-way tailgate, following which the rear roof panel slides forward completely eliminating any height restriction on any payload that will fit within the rear cargo area. Imagine trying to haul a refrigerator in the upright position in a typical SUV. Unless were talking bar fridge, the likelihood of success

Unlike so many SUVs, the Envoy is built to get dirty, even on the inside, featuring an easy to hose down cargo area. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

is diddley squat.

The versatility of the XUV doesnt stop with a disappearing roofline. Behind the rear seats, in the spacious cabin, is a midgate wall similar to that found in the Avalanche but much easier to operate. With the touch of another button, the window drops into the midgate wall. After the 60/40 split rear bench is folded and tumbled forward, the midgate unlatches effortlessly and drops forward creating a lengthy flat bed capable of swallowing

The Envoys unique backend unfortunately reduces visibility, so parking can be a challenge. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

items up to 76 inches long and 48 inches wide. But the length adaptation gets even better when the two-way tailgate is flipped down and over-length cargo is allowed to extend beyond the inner confines of the Envoy.

Now I dont know about you, but the contemplation of placing a load of topsoil or manure in a high-end SUV causes me great consternation and anxiety. Many of todays SUVs beat out my living room when it comes to resplendence and lavishness. Such luxurious cargo holds tend to restrict their usefulness, not so with the XUV. You see, with

The Envoys clean lines and non-muddled appearance remain stylish and modern looking, although not groundbreaking. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

the sealing midgate in place the cargo area can be hosed out, literally. Turn the tap on, point the nozzle and let it go - industrial man-size cleaning at its best. Its rugged walls and floor are impervious to water. Special one-way drains allow water and crud to flow like oil from the Exxon Valdez, minus the tragic consequences of course.

The only fly in the XUV ointment is diminished visibility out of the tailgate window and rear side windows due to their reduced size. This hindrance is in attendance when parallel parking or backing into a garage. After some practice or a few body

The XUVs tailgate folds down like a pickup truck or alternatively opens horizontally, bringing back a truly handy feature from 70s era station wagons. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

panel scrapes, with the use of the large side mirrors this complication is easily overcome.

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