The 2010 Hummer H3

The 2010 Hummer H3 has undergone only small changes from its predecessor. For instance, the front bumper lower portion has been replaced with grey in place of silver. Fuel capacity has also been made flexible on the V8 5-liter engine. In addition the package formerly known as H3X is now called the Appearance package.

In the recent past, many celebrities drove the Hummer H2 which at 3-tons was massive and a fuel guzzler. Then came the H3, the H2′s smaller and more affordable baby brother which was less gluttonous on fuel but still had similar looks. The Tonka Truck styling has always been an eye-catcher.

The off-road strengths of the Hummer model have always been impressive. With its big ground clearance, big tires and its locking differentials, the Hummer H3 is an off-road giant. This is a good vehicle for buyers willing to indulge in excursions and to be gaudy about it.

Shortcomings also exist for the H3. With poor outward visibility and excessive weight that is too hefty for its standard five-cylinder engine, this vehicle is too showy for the liking of many enthusiasts. Even though the standard 5-cylinder can be replaced with a V8, this increases its fuel thirst almost exponentially. Granted, the H3 has a smooth ride providing adults with comfortable seating but it has a smaller than expected cargo capacity.

Enthusiasts argue that its rivals such as the Toyota FJ Cruiser and the Jeep Wrangler or even more traditional SUVs such as the Nissan Pathfinder or the Jeep Grand Cherokee provide more value for money in terms of efficiency, performance and quality.

The Hummer H3 comes in two basic trim models namely the five-cylinder base H3 and the Alpha which is more powerful. Highlights for the standard model include full skid plates, 16-inch wheels of alloy, hill start assist, keyless entry, foglamps, cruise control, a CD player with 6 speakers, Bluetooth, Onstar and satellite radio. Alpha model adds polished 16-inch wheels, a V8 engine, seating and steering with leather trimming, carpeted floor mats and power-adjustable and heated front seats.

The luxury package adds to the base model most of the Alpha model’s extras plus a 6-CD changer Monsoon sound system. The Appearance package embellishes the Alpha with chrome finishes to the fuel-filler cap, roof rack and wheels plus a host of other pleasantries. Also available are a sunroof, navigation system, special metallic paints and a rear-view camera system.

To serve different terrain needs, the Hummer H3s have two suspension packages. The heavy-duty standard Z85 trailering and handling suspension gives more balance to on and off-road work. Thedifferential rear axle gearing and 32-inch heavy-duty tires also aid in off-road performance of the H3.

There is an option of an Off-Road Adventure package designed for more rugged and off-pavement performance with bigger 33-inch tires, front-differential case made of cast iron, well-tuned shock absorbers, front and rear differentials that lock and a transfer-case gearing that I shorter to give maximum control in descents and hill climbs. Some of the items present in the Luxury Package are also added. These include the Upgraded Monsoon audio system and powered driver seat.