The term hybrid now applies to gasoline/electric-powered vehicles, and 'crossover' has been used to describe everything from SUV/pickup combinations to car-based vehicles with trucklike features.

So the term transformer is used to describe a vehicle that attempts to fit into two classes. Vehicles like the 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac are handy, but they're really just short-bed crew-cab pickups. Transformers require a structural doohickey like the Avalanche's midgate, which folds to extend the cargo bed into the cabin.

The Avalanche offers more.

For information on new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles, contact Bob Howard Chevrolet at #13130 N Broadway Extension, Oklahoma City, OK 73114, Phone (405) 748-7700

www.bobhowardchevrolet.com