What does it take to convert a rugged, capable, durable and refined Chevrolet full-size SUV into a pickup with a full-size cargo box? Less than a minute. That's how long it takes to transform 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 2WD using the General Motors-exclusive Midgate™. Another kind of transformation occurs with the standard FlexFuel 310 hp 5.3L and 366 hp 6.0L VVT Vortec V8 engines. Both enhance fuel efficiency with Active Fuel Management ® and, new for 2009, a six-speed automatic transmission with two fuel-saving overdrive gears. Just as reassuring is the fact that Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 2WD earned the highest possible U.S. government frontal and side-impact safety ratings.** The SUV of pickups and the pickup of SUVs – the 2012 Avalanche 1500 2WD.