Farewell, Chevrolet Avalanche

Chevrolet announced that production of the Avalanche pickup will come to an end in 2013 – and there's no replacement in sight. Ironically, the Avalanche was a victim of its own success. GM's Tom Wilkinson told Automotive News that "As the crew cab pickup became an increasing part of the light duty market, Avalanche sales have really been tapering off…"We have a very passionate following but unfortunately it's not large enough to make a strong enough business case to do a next generation Avalanche as part of the next generation full-size truck program." Crew cabs apparently make up 65 percent of the truck market, and it's difficult to justify buying an Avalanche when a full-size crew cab is available. Nevertheless, I personally have a soft spot for these cars – a friend has a 2008 in midnight blue with the 6.0L V8 and all the bells and whistles. It's a lovely truck, though I can't recall him ever using the Midgate. Chevrolet will release a special edition, dubbed the Black Diamond, to commemorate the Avalanche's departure from the lineup, in the 2013 model year. No word on the fate of the Cadillac Escalade EXT. One can only assume that it would disappear along with its platform-mate. from The Truth About Cars http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com

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