Overview & Reviews

The Hummer H2 debuted in 2003 as an attempt by Hummer and parent company General Motors to offer something a bit more practical than the exotic, designed-for-military-use H1. Relatively practical though it may have been, the Hummer H2's large size and U.S. military Humvee-inspired styling still made it stand out like a sweaty heavyweight prizefighter attending a Friday-night knitting class. It was extremely capable when taken off-road and easy to customize with factory options and dealer accessories. When examined solely on these merits, the H2 seemed like the ultimate pick for an SUV.

Unfortunately, it was burdened with some design flaws that make it ill-suited for everyday use. Though smaller than the original Hummer, the H2 was still quite bulky and heavy. This posed a problem on many fronts, from the obvious drain on fuel mileage to the more mundane trickiness of parallel parking or driving into a tight parking garage entrance. The truck also suffered from a less-than-competitive amount of cargo space, tight headroom, a short list of luxury features and, with the exception of the later versions, mediocre interior materials.

GM shut down Hummer in the midst of bankruptcy and a tidal shift in public perception of the brand. As such, there was only one H2 generation. Those with a true need for Herculean off-road ability in open terrain or those just smitten with its distinctive styling will find the H2 endearing. For everyone else, there are better choices available for a large, luxury-oriented SUV.

Most Recent Hummer H2
The Hummer H2 was produced from 2003-'09. It unmistakably aped its bigger H1 brother's styling, though nearly all of its hardware came from other GM truck products. There was also a model known as the H2 SUT introduced for 2005, which replaced the cargo area with a truncated pickup-style bed. It was equipped similarly to the regular H2.

Originally powered by a 6.0-liter V8 good for 316 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque and coupled to a four-speed automatic transmission, the H2 was upgraded to a 6.2-liter 393-hp V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission for 2008. As such, these are the pick of the litter given the Hummer's inherent weight.

Power was directed to the truck's meaty tires through a full-time dual-range transfer case. Advanced features included a driver-selectable rear differential locker and a drive-by-wire throttle setup that changed sensitivity when low-range gearing was selected.

Limited changes over its first few years included the arrival of an optional DVD-based navigation system in 2005, though the in-car electronics of early Hummers will feel quite antiquated today. Aside from the powertrain upgrades for '08, Hummer addressed the criticism that the H2's original cabin was poorly made and not befitting a vehicle with its price tag. The revamped cabin debuted with new seats, a redesigned dash and better materials, switchgear and electronics interfaces. Model year '09 saw the arrival of optional second-row captain's chairs and a new third-row-seat storage option that freed up more interior space.

In our reviews, we've found that the Hummer H2 had few equals in off-road situations. Thanks to nearly 10 inches of ground clearance, 42-degree approach and 38-degree departure angles, generous wheel travel and a protected underbody, the H2 could roll over just about any type of terrain without getting stuck or damaged. On tight trails, however, it could be difficult to maneuver, as its body was quite wide.

In urban environments such as densely packed city streets, the H2's width was a distinct liability. Its considerable height also created large blind spots and prevented it from being parked in some garages. Inside, the H2 offered comfortable seating for front passengers, but taller folks in the back were likely to find their heads canted to the side under the low roof. This problem didn't exist in other top large luxury SUVs of the time, which were also easier to enter and exit than the H2.

User Reviews:

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  Nothing Like IT !! - 2004 Hummer H2
  By Medor - April 24 - 5:23 pm

  We have owned a lot of nice vehicles but nothing compares to the H2. Where we live with the snow and horrible dirt roads its the best driving vehicle ever. When you have to travel a lot of crappy dirt roads its a pleasure to drive the Hummer on them because it rides very smooth. We love the turning radius of it which makes it very easy to park and get around in tight spots. We have yet to find anything we dont like about it. We are use to having vehicles that dont get good gas mileage because we also have a Ford F250. The Hummer is not any worse for mileage than 1/2 or 3/4 ton trucks so dont let people tell you any different. We enjoy and love driving the Hummer !!!!!!

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  Best Automobile I have ever owned!!! - 2005 Hummer H2
  By Ron Elfgen - April 13 - 7:57 pm

  I have owned my H-2 for over one year now. I have traveled over 26,000 miles both on highway, streets and off road. The gas mileage isnt the best but I do seem to get about 15 mpg on the highway and get about 11 mpg in town which was the same as my old F-150. I have also traveled from florida to Alaska where I am working now. The trip was very plesant due to my H-2s ride and comfort.

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  use it - 2005 Hummer H2
  By Trevor - April 11 - 7:23 pm

  its a fun head truner that easy to make different form the other on the road. H2 are not the fast but that not what you get it for, its great off road and if you get one you should use it so you can respect what its about. but at the same time its comfort level is there with any other SUV.

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  SSS,Inc. - 2005 Hummer H2
  By raysnper - March 31 - 6:35 pm

  The power and performance of the 2005 LUX H2 was a pleasant surprise. The ride and comfort is something you would expect from a luxury sedan.

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  Boxy But Sexy - 2005 Hummer H2
  By Scarboy - March 27 - 11:19 am

  Overall this vehicle has met my expectations. Negatives-- It could use more front seat leg room and it would be nice if the 2nd row seats reclined. Interior jack location could have been thought out better. Windshield leaked from poor installation at factory and both front seat height adjustment switches have gone out. Positives--This vehicle will perform as advertised. It handles/performs like a sports car and almost nothing short of water submersion will stop it. If you have to get the "heck out of dodge" this is the vehicle. Just fill up the tank at every opportunity. Would definitely buy again.

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  Best Truck Ive Owned - 2005 Hummer H2
  By H2 - March 25 - 6:54 pm

  This SUV is roomy and well laid out on the inside, it drives like a small car with the smooth luxury ride, surprisingly easy to handle, and its a head turner wherever you go

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  Abbys review - 2005 Hummer H2
  By Big Gurl - March 23 - 11:15 pm

  I am really enjoying my H2 - I have a 2005 and the color is stealth gray. I enjoy the comfort and the stares as well! Anyone purchasing this vehicle must know that its a gas guzzler so dont go in blindly. The fun outweights it. I use mine as an everyday vehicle. It runs just fine!

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  NICE RIDE - 2005 Hummer H2
  By I LIKE IT - March 23 - 9:21 pm

  Fun to drive, fuel economy 12.5 to 13.5 they improved it in 2005 to this. We enjoy it fully and glad we purchased it

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  Hummer Rocks - 2005 Hummer H2
  By Tyler - March 15 - 3:39 pm

  The H2 Hummer is an awesome vehicle. Its off-road capability is unmatched and the highway ride is incredibly smooth and quiet. The uniqueness of the vehicle sets it apart from all other run-of-the-mill sport utility vehicles. They are easily accessorized to make yours unique. Many after market accessories are available. It is my favorite vehicle on the road.

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  I love my H2 - 2005 Hummer H2
  By crazyH2drvr - March 11 - 11:07 pm

  I love my H2. Its such a great truck. And let me tell you the attention it gets is way worth it. Fun to drive fun to look at and way worth the money. Gas since its expensive is kinda bad but you know that going into it. Great fun.