The most miniature model in the Hummer lineup, the H3, was introduced in 2006 and shared a platform with the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon.
Built to excel off-road, the H3 can climb 60 percent (31-degree) grades and handle 40 percent side slopes. It can also ford 16 inches of water.
Features
The hummer h3 offers many features you would expect in a sport utility vehicle. Its interior features leather-appointed seats with embroidered headrests and an audio system with a six-disc CD changer.
The H3’s body is built on a platform derived from the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks. However, the chassis has unique fender flares, short front and rear overhangs, and increased ground clearance that makes it capable of negotiating harsh off-road conditions.
Safety is a big priority for the H3, as it has received good crash-test scores from NHTSA and IIHS. In addition, a four-wheel-drive system with a high and low range, an available locking differential and traction control, and standard airbags help keep the driver and passengers safe on the road.
Safety
The hummer h3 is a tough-looking truck-inspired SUV that’s also an excellent choice for off-roading. It has impressive off-road capabilities and is built on the same platform as a Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck.
Like the bigger H2, the H3 rides fairly smoothly on pavement, though roughness can be felt under hard acceleration at low speeds and lethargic passing or merging maneuvers. Five-cylinder models offer only 239 horsepower and are hooked to a four-speed automatic that’s not particularly elegant; the more powerful V-8 and four-speed manual of the Alpha model provides better performance, although fuel economy is poor.
Cargo space is pleasing for light-duty hauling but not as generous as the ample spaces inside the similarly priced GMC Acadia. Side steps can help less agile passengers get into the rear seats, and there’s a swing-out tailgate. An available HD Surround Vision system uses several waterproof underbody cameras to display real-time views of your surroundings.
Fuel Economy
The H3 is a Hummer that has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to fuel economy. It’s a lot more efficient than model H1 and model H2 because it weighs a lot less.
2006, 2007, and 2008 models are rated at 14 mpg city and 18 on the highway. The 2009 and 2010 models are rated at 15 mpg city and 16 on the road.
In terms of power, the 3.7-liter V-6 produces 242 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. It’s a little more potent than the H2’s 3.7-liter engine, rated at 171 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque.
In addition, the h3 features an electronically controlled four-wheel drive system with high and low ranges. It also has a locking rear differential and traction control that help with off-road maneuvers, which are an essential part of the h3’s capabilities.
Value
If you’re a Hummer fan but don’t want to shell out the big bucks for a Hummer H2 or an even bigger, more powerful model, the 2006 H3 offers a less gas-guzzling and more civilized option. It has the unmistakable styling of the original military-based Hummer and the off-road ability of a larger SUV or pickup truck.
The H3 is based on the GMT355 frame that underpins GM’s Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon compact pickup trucks. It also borrows a 242-hp, 3.7-liter five-cylinder engine from those vehicles.
Although the base H3 is a good choice for those who don’t go off-road much, it does have a few rough spots, like an automatic transmission that can be harsh at low speeds or slow to shift into gears when passing or merging onto the highway. This is especially true with the 5-cylinder, but a V8 version should quiet those complaints.
