The 2009 Chevy Avalanche is a sport utility truck or SUT, combining all the passenger capacity and comfort of an SUV with the cargo capability of a pickup truck. The Avalanche holds six passengers comfortably, along with a 5 foot 3 inch cargo box. If you want plenty of seating and a comfortable interior, but also need to haul cargo from time to time, this SUT might be a good choice for you.

The Avalanche is more versatile than most crew cab pickup trucks because of something it calls the mid-gate – which refers to a removable wall that separates the bed of the truck from the cabin. You start by folding down the 60/40 split rear seat, and then you \ open up the midgate to create an extended, covered cargo area. You now have a three passenger pickup with a roughly 8 foot cargo box. For maximum versatility, remove the rear window and cargo covers. However, this versatility comes at a price that’s a bit higher than most crew cab pickups – but if you need maximum options, it may be worth the extra expense.

The Chevrolet Avalanche is built on the full-size GM SUV platform and there are three trim levels – the base LS, the two LT versions, and the LTZ, which is all out plush. All models have a standard 5.3 liter V8, although you also have the option of getting a 6.0 liter V8. The V8 comes with a standard automatic six speed transmission.

For its massive size, the Avalanche handles well. The ride is comfortable and smooth, not at all what you’d expect from such a workhorse. The performance is good, and the steering is precise and predictable. As you’d expect with a large SUT, the fuel economy isn’t good, and the interior is more truck than car. For an SUT with an interior that’s more like a car, be sure to take a look at the Honda Ridgeline.

Maneuvering in tight spots is difficult, as the Chevy Avalanche is quite large and has the blind spots to match. If you plan to purchase this vehicle, get the Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist Sensors and optional rear camera system. The sensors will warn you of any vehicle within eight feet when you’re backing up at a low speed. Most reviewers consider these features to be essential when you purchase a vehicle of this size with its related visibility limitations.

And as far as style goes, this is essentially the same model that debuted in 2007 – with a few upgrades to both the interior and exterior styling. The engine has a slightly different rating now, and the transmission has been upgraded from its original four speed configuration. The midgate debuted with the original 2002 model of this vehicle – it was an innovative design then, and remains so today.

In front crash tests and side impacts, the Avalanche earns solid five star ratings. StabiliTrak – an electronic stability control system – is standard on all trims, as are anti-lock brakes. This year, side impact head curtain air bags became standard on all trims. Another passive safety feature is the Passenger Sensing System – based on the passenger’s weight and the amount of pressure being exerted on the seat, the right front passenger airbag can be automatically switched off so that it doesn’t deploy unnecessarily.

With the combined functionality of both a truck and an SUV – along with features that make this a fun car to drive – you may find it to be worth the extra expense over similar models.