Kool Whip of the Week…2006 Hummer H3

Had enough of the green-hybrid-smart car marketing juggernaut?

If so, laugh in the face of soaring gas prices and start enjoying some consumer grade military action.  Lighter, sportier and a whole lot cheaper (read: less expensive)

If the H2 was just a big rugged box, then the H3 is a slightly smaller, cooler box with some really awesome touches. (It’s about the size of the Chevy Trailblazer) This box clearly acknowledges it’s rugged ancestry while showing off it’s well-honed driveability.

The 2006 Hummer H3 starts at a retail whacking of $29,995 and comes equipped with a 220hp Vortec engine, GM’s Stabilitrak control system. (This brakes individual wheels rather than all four) and a traction-control system with tire-pressure monitoring.

Ergonomics aren’t what draw people to the H3 - that’s the Nissan Murano’s job. The H3 is like putting on a new pair of expensive leather loafers; you love how they look & how they make you feel - but you wince when sliding into them.  Be careful - people tend bump their head on the H3’s roof sill when overshooting the entry.

In side by side spec comparisons with other SUV’s, the H3 falls in the middle of the road. However, it does come up strong with the addition of torsion bars up front, stronger approach/departure angles and it has an improved flexible transfer case. It can also traverse a 16 inch vertical scale and hunker though water 24 inches deep. The H2 only handles 20 inches.

Thirsty for rugged times and taking a break from the biodesel, hydrogen fuel and electric movement?  Snag one with low-miles and sip from the petrol pump in a 2006 Hummer H3. (You may have to take a few extra sips - but you’ll enjoy it.) 

Rate This Post.