Transmission does not shift into gear at times even though rpms go up. if i shift to neutral and back to drive real quick , transmission shifts into drive gear ok.

There could be several issues that could cause your GMC Envoy's transmission to not shift gears properly and the RPMs to rev high. Here are a few potential problems that you may want to consider:

1. Low transmission fluid: If the transmission fluid is low, it could cause problems with the shifting mechanism. You'll want to check the transmission fluid level and add more if needed.
2. Faulty shift solenoid: The shift solenoid is responsible for directing transmission fluid to the appropriate gear. If the solenoid is faulty, it could cause shifting problems.
3. Worn transmission bands or gears: If the transmission bands or gears are worn, it could cause the transmission to not shift properly and the RPMs to rev high.
4. Clogged transmission filter: A clogged transmission filter can restrict the flow of transmission fluid, causing shifting issues.
5. Faulty transmission control module (TCM): The TCM is responsible for controlling the transmission. If it's not functioning properly, it could cause shifting problems.

I would recommend having a mechanic diagnose and fix the problem for you. It's important to address transmission issues promptly, as they can lead to further damage if left unchecked.

you need to let the RPMs drop down to match the speed you're going for the next gear, though this is less efficient than power shifting through.
Unless you're slipping the clutch to smooth out the gear change, yes, there will be a definite surge every time you grab a gear in a manual transmission vehicle. Most automatics will also shift noticeably harder at WOT.
For more sedate, "normal" driving, you can shift slower and feather the throttle a bit more to smooth out the gear changes, but when you're ******* the throttle as soon as the clutch engages, it's going to be a firm shift. I hope is ok.

Sorry, sounds like trany time.

TPS SENSOR.
IT CONTROLS SHIFTING AT THE RIGHT TIME
AND COULD ALSO CAUSE ALL OF THE SYNMTHOMS
THAT YOU HAVE LISTED SOMETIMES WITH OUT GIVING YOU A CODE GOOD LUCK

have the fault codes read to find out the servo/solenoid that is not working'
check that the vacuum actuator for the transmission is working and that the vacuum hose is connected
that is the unit that makes ratio changes possible at certain rpms and vacuum settings from accelerator pedal positions

orbital clutches slipping , needs stripping

Transmission will never hold the engine back if it is going through the gears properly.If it gets into high gear, eventually the engine will reach "redline" if you stay into it long enough. ("redline" for any engine is the point at which it cannot run any faster without harming itself.) DO NOT confuse that with proper shift points which should happen just before you reach max torque which happens way before you reach "redline" at which point you are way past the torque peak of the engine, and making no usable torque or horsepower. An example of this is a race engine with a max rpm limit of 10,000rpm.("redline") Depending upon the torque curve (determined by compression, stroke and type of cam grind) you would likely be shifting gears at about 7500 to 8500RPM not at 10,000.
Therefore, your shift points are like climbing a ladder. you get just so high and though there are more steps, you will fall off if you go there. Each time you shift, you are putting the rpms back into the usable power band, till you reach the next step, then start over again. If your trans shifts early the engine will lug and labor. shifting too late and it will quickly reach "redline" and self destruct or go "flat". In a conversion, you need to make sure that the electronics that control shift points are working within the usable torque range.
OR install a manual valve body and shifter and control it like a stick shift car, using your brain as the computer and a tach to tell you where you are.

The last shift is not a real gear shift, it is called "torque converter". The high rpms happens because the transm. goes to neutral. Get it to a transm. shop to be tested

The automatic transmissions on these vehicles are known to die early in the life of the car and Volvo is well aware that the vehicle has a dud auto transmission. The symptoms you have mentioned are an indication that the transmission has had it. It's basically just running in limp mode now.

You don't say what mileage this vehicle has clocked up but even low mileage vehicles have had to have the entire transmission replaced due to failures like yours. You also, no doubt, have a transmission alert showing on the dash.

The bad news is that a replacement automatic transmission will now be necessary and this will be costly. Even then, with these cars, you could experience another transmission failure after just another 30000 miles or so of driving.

Sean

Check your transmission fluid level and/or have the fluid changed. If problem persist have a transmission professional at a dealership or transmission shop service it.