I think your gonna love the Avalanche. I had an 05 Z71 and loved that truck, but one day got the bug to but a newer truck. Got a good deal on a 13 Silverado but hated the leather seats with no heat and the extended cab road noise. Traded it for a 14 Crew cab and that was nothing but a garage queen. The 4X4 Crew was a bit much to maneuver in parking lots so I went back to a 13 Black Diamond Avalanche. Its great, a tight turning radius and a secure bed to haul most of the things that I do on a weekly basis. The back end-gate drops to give you 8 plus feet to haul and if I have something bigger I have a trailer. Just wish I could improve on the 15.3/15.5 fuel mileage, but hey I have a great riding and looking truck. Enjoy it and stop by Chevy Avalanche Fan Club and show us some pics.