2009 Hummer H3

The 2009 Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck body style to its roster. Otherwise, the lineup for this off-road-ready midsize SUV is largely unchanged. The pickup, called H3T, is larger than Chevrolet's Colorado compact pickup but smaller than the full-size Silverado. Base versions of the H3 wagon and H3T have a 239-hp 3.7-liter 5-cylinder engine. The top-line Alpha sports a 300-hp 5.3-liter V8. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the base wagon and pickup. The Alpha has a standard 4-speed automatic. Maximum towing capacity with the 5-cylinder is 3000 lb with the manual transmission and 4500 lb with the automatic. Alpha has a maximum towing capacity of 6000 lb. H3 and H3T come with all-wheel drive that includes low-range gearing for off-road use. An available Off-Road Adventure Suspension Package on the wagon includes ultra-low gearing and a locking rear axle for severe off-road forays. This feature carries over to the pickup as well. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. GM's OnStar assistance is standard. A rearview camera is available, along with a navigation system. Note that Hummer also offers an H3X model as a 5-cylinder wagon with automatic transmission. It includes chrome wheels and other specific trim. These features are available as an H3X Package on Alpha wagons.

Competition

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.