2008 Chevrolet Avalanche LTZ

The 2008 Avalanche is Chevrolet's half-ton pickup with an SUV-style cabin, a body style that splits the difference between a Silverado and a Tahoe. It drives smoothly for a truck this size, with a ride that stays composed on the highway and enough grunt to tow without drama. The cabin is genuinely roomy, and the midgate folds down to turn the bed into a long, covered cargo area that keeps gear dry. Owners mention tire-pressure sensors and other electronics acting up as the miles add up, and the fuel bill is heavy in town. The LTZ adds luxury trim inside, so you get a nicer cabin than the LS or LT but give up the LS's stronger engine. Its 5.3L V8 makes 310 horsepower, and with four-wheel drive plus the four-speed automatic, it's a solid tow rig that returns 16 mpg combined.