Opinions, please....GMC XUV

[87MH]

I'm about to purchase (I think) a new GMC XUV...I was wondering if anyone has first hand knowledge, comments, or strong opinions of the following options:

Vortec 5.3 liter V8 -- 290 hp/325 lb-ft torque

Highest Ratio rear end available - 3.73 Max tow capacity 6500 lbs.

or,

Vortec 4.2 liter Inline 6 -- 275 hp/275 lb-ft torque

Highest Ratio rear end available - 4.10 Max tow capacity 5800 lbs.

AB requires the 4-speed automatic with either engine.

The next three options I could really use some help on.

Load Leveling Rear Suspension Package (G67) $375
Locking Rear Differential (G80) $270
Traction Assist System (NW7) $170

Worth the bucks?
Nice to have, but not necessary?
Don't purchase vehilcle without it?
Don't bother, PITA/reliability problems?

Thanks for any input.

[j54mark]

My new truck has the locking differential and I am impressed. I guess the other items would depend upon what your uses are.

From a practical standpoint, I doubt you will see any difference in fuel consumption between the two engines.

Mark

[87MH]

Mark:

Thanks for the comments - other than a pickup a few years ago that didn't work out, this is the first vehicle that I will purchase new since '78 -- and it will probably be my last!

I need all the help I can get to make sure I don't end up with something I will regret in a few months.

[davidz71]

I can only comment on the G80 locker and the 5.3. Don't buy the vehicle without either one! The locker will get you out of more messes than you ever thought about, including wet grass or mud on a slight slope. The 5.3 has been around awhile and is a good engine now that a few problems have been cleared up.

[66Overlander]

Dennis,

I've not driven the XUV, but I have driven Chevy Trailer Blazer EXT's with both the Inline 6 and the V8. The EXT is about the same size and weight as the XUV. The Inline 6 is more than enough in the short wheelbase Trailblazer (non-EXT) and while it generally does have enough "ommph" to move a vehicle the size of the XUV, the V8 suited my tastes better. The in the EXT, I found the extra torque of the V8 kept it from downshifting as much as the 6 did. I also found that the two engines had similar fuel economy, so I wouldn't use that as a deciding factor. So . . . the 6 is a capable engine if you don't want to pay for the V8, but in my opinion the V8 is worth the price.

As far as Locking Diff, I always want to have one . . . with my occassional lead foot it helps keep things in check when I get a little too agressive with the gas pedal. My only experience with Traction Assist was on a Corvette, and on that vehicle it was a welcome feature. I guess both are mainly there to help keep you in control when horsepower exceeds traction. Your driving style and the conditions you drive in (snow, wet grass, etc.) should probably determine your need for them.

I haven't experienced the Load Leveling Suspension, but have heard that it offers the best ride.

Good Luck with your choice,

Joe