The 2010 Chevrolet Avalanche ranks 1 out of 5 Sport Utility Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 43 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Avalanche, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Stuck somewhere between an SUV and a truck, the Avalanche is a good choice for people who do moderate hauling or towing, but still want a comfortable interior with plenty of seating.

The Chevy Avalanche is a four-door, five-seat Sport Utility Truck. That means its interior is similar to an SUV's, but instead of an enclosed cargo area, the Avalanche has a small pickup bed. While pickup purists may not think the Avalanche's bed is big enough, the Avalanche has a trick up its sleeve: a folding midgate and removable back glass lets you to trade the second row for more room in the bed. When you don't need the cargo space any more, it's easy to return the backseat. Because the Avalanche is so multi-functional, most reviewers like it.

But while the Avalanche is multifunctional, that doesn't mean it's perfect. It one of the more expensive SUTs you can buy, and some reviewers prefer the Honda Ridgeline, which they say drives more like a car. While the Ridgeline isn't quite as rugged as the Avalanche, some buyers who are trading up to a truck for the first time might appreciate its more car-like interior and performance. However, the Ridgeline's maximum tow rating is about 3,000 pounds less than the Avalanche's and the Ridgeline doesn't have the foldable midgate, so you're stuck with a smaller bed. On the other hand, the Ridgeline is about $7,000 cheaper than the Avalanche.

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The Avalanche was introduced in 2001 and redesigned in 2007. For 2010, the Avalanche gets a few new features. A USB port is now standard so you can play and control music from an MP3 player with the Avalanche's stereo. A single speed transfer case is now standard on four-wheel drive Avalanches, and the 1LT package now adds dual zone climate control, remote start, adjustable pedals and a heavy-duty locking rear differential. A six-speed automatic transmission is now standard.