Overview & Reviews

Originally, Hummer ownership was kind of like hiring a Hollywood pyrotechnic company to run your Fourth of July celebration -- complete overkill and massively expensive, but surely a great way to impress the heck out of the neighbors. Then came the Hummer H3. It was designed to be the "real world" Hummer: less pyrotechnics and more sparklers.

That's not to say that the company's engineers stopped their testosterone I.V. drip. The H3's styling still proclaimed loudly that it's a card-carrying member of the Hummer guild, and the truck had more off-road capability than just about every other midsize SUV when the pavement ends.

For everyday urban use, however, the smallest of Hummers still wasn't the best choice. Unless you were driving the "Alpha" version, which boasted V8 power, the Hummer H3 was painfully slow in certain situations. It was also let down by other traditional Hummer faults such as poor outward visibility and an interior that isn't as voluminous as its exterior styling suggests.

If you're keen on the H3's looks and style, or if you plan on plenty of recreational use, a used H3 should be a good purchase. Still, our editors feel that most buyers will be better served by other used midsize SUVs.

Current Hummer H3
The Hummer H3 was a midsize SUV that was produced from 2006-'09. A pickup-style model known as the H3T was produced only for 2009 and was equipped similarly.

Originally, the four-wheel-drive H3 came with a 3.5-liter inline-5 good for a meager 220 horsepower. Hummer addressed the power shortage in 2007, bumping it up to 3.7 liters and 239 hp. The inline-5 was the same engine found in General Motors' midsize pickups, and despite its increase, it was overwhelmed by this SUV's nearly 2.5 tons of curb weight. In our Hummer H3 road test, we recorded a 0-60-mph time of 11 seconds. Fuel economy wasn't all that great either. Fortunately, there was also the Alpha version of the H3, which arrived for 2008 and sported a 300-hp 5.3-liter V8 that provided more respectable performance. With the V8, the H3's 0-60 time drops to 8.8 seconds. A five-speed manual was standard on five-cylinder models, while a four-speed auto was optional with the I-5 and standard with the V8.

Allowed to play in the dirt, the smallest Hummer was basically unstoppable. With 9.1 inches of ground clearance, loads of wheel travel, oversized all-terrain tires and standard skid plates, the H3 could pretty much go wherever you wanted without taking damage. For optimum performance, adding the optional Off-Road Suspension package yielded a shorter-geared transfer case for better hill climbing and descending, a locking rear differential, 33-inch off-road tires and firmer suspension tuning.

Inside, the H3's cabin was more stylish than those of its pickup relatives, though its materials were only a bit better (meaning still not good). At least most of the controls were easy to use. The 60/40-split rear seat could be lowered to increase cargo capacity, though this vehicle's maximum capacity of 56 cubic feet was smaller than that of many other compact and midsize SUVs. Outward visibility was hampered by the gun-slit-style windows and tailgate-mounted spare tire.

Aside from its engine updates, there were few changes during the H3's single generation. Stability control and side curtain airbags were made standard for '08 and a rearview camera became optional. Standard Bluetooth connectivity and manual transmission hill-start assist were added for '09, while a front locking differential became optional. The rearview camera system was also revised.

User Reviews:

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  Love at first sight - 2007 Hummer H3
  By Hummin3 - October 3 - 1:30 pm

  The first time I saw the H3, I knew it was for me. I never really had a "dream car" in mind until I saw it. For my 40th birthday last year, my husband surprised me with an H3 with the luxery package, and chrome accents on the exterior. I love everything about this vehicle. The only thing it is lacking is the pick up from stop to go,and the pedals are too close together according to my husband,otherwise it is perfect. Its sturdy, reliable, has a VERY smooth ride, off road ability is amazing.The look inside and out is great. Love the leather, the stereo and the sun roof. I do get a few dirty looks from tree huggers, but the mileage isnt any worse than those mini vans they drive

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  Cool But Beware! - 2006 Hummer H3
  By rayenet - September 30 - 4:53 pm

  I just got my new H3 and absolutely love its looks and price, but Ive got an issue with the suspension. When I drive on the highway and go over larger bumps and uneven surfaces, the steering wheel jerks abruptly and the vehicle swerves and wobbles. Its worse when it happens while Im changing lanes or in the middle of a turn. It feels as if Im going to lose control and the vehicle is going to flip over. Im really concerned about how it will handle on twisty snow covered mountain roads, even with the Stabilitrak.

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  Eliminated Other Options - 2007 Hummer H3
  By Jubes - September 29 - 10:33 pm

  2007 H3 was the vehicle for me. Looked at the Wrangler Rubicon 4dr and the FJ Cruiser. Bottom line, FJ Cruiser loud road noise and only door and a half - also required Premium Petro. Jeep Wrangler is too expensive and does not have any amenities. H3 is locked and loaded to take on the street or off road. Bottom line, if you are into towing weight, buy a diesel pickup. If you want acceleration, buy a performance vehicle. If you want a tough, fuel efficient, SUV, buy a H3. We’ve owned it all, Excursion, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Explorer, GMC Sierra K2500 Duramax, Jag, Vet, BMW, and the H3 rocks them all. Also, ride is better than truck and most cars

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  Buy the looks and the performance - 2007 Hummer H3
  By jag - September 23 - 2:11 pm

  Just saw the black tactical editon and traded a six month old Dodge 1500 hemi based on the wow factor and performance. So far no regrets, and although the gas mileage isnt great for a 5 cylinder its better than a hemi, and it doesnt require 89 octane

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  Awesome off-road capabilty - 2006 Hummer H3
  By Kevin - September 18 - 7:10 am

  Off road capabilities rivalled only by the H1 and some high end Rovers (maybe). Head turner. Acceleration wasnt as bad as expected for a Hummer, yet torque/towing capability needs to be enhanced (225/4500lb rating). Need to have optional seating for six or maybe even 7. Gas mileage is better than our Explorer.

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  No Crossover SUV - 2008 Hummer H3
  By Jimbo - September 17 - 11:03 am

  Sits very comfortable. Good interior quality and layout. I love the styling. Maintains tough Hummer look with more off-road capability than most will need. Nimble and easier to maneuver and park around town than larger SUVs. Fairly tight 36 turning diameter. The 3.7L I5 engine has 242 HP and is enough power for most. It is a definite improvemnet over the original 2006 3.5L I5. The Alpha version has the V8, but I passed on that one. Too new to realistically assess reliabilty. But if 2007 H3 is a measure, then it should be fairly good.

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  Still Adjusting - 2007 Hummer H3
  By John S. - September 4 - 11:30 am

  I just picked up an H3 black tactical edition. So far the truck has been great. It has been a slow adjustment from my Audi A4. I realize how much I miss certain features. Obviously gas mileage is terrible but I knew that when I bought it. I have been changing the minds of many anti-hummer folks. My project this weekend is to install a DICE IPOD adapter. Ride quality on city roads is much better that expected. Even though the sunroof is great, one like the BMW X3 or Audi Q7 would be unbelievable. Again, I am beign a little harsh as I have become acustom to features not avaiable on the H3. Otherwise, buy one over any other GM SUV.

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  Love my Tactical - 2007 Hummer H3
  By rhill20 - September 2 - 10:13 am

  Had an 06 and loved it. But the newer models are much better designed. Window buttons are better placement, has more power, and maybe Im imagining this but it rides better. Im 59" and have never had an issue with room.

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  07 Hummer H3, simply awesome! - 2007 Hummer H3
  By alvarezlouie - August 30 - 5:17 pm

  After purchasing an 07 Avalanche 6 mths ago I was dissatisfied, did my homework this time looking at H3s and similar to do a trade-in. The H3 is in a class by itself, looks great, performs excellent, very comfortable and comes with an aura of style and luxury. I thoroughly enjoy the looks it draws, the power it implies, the safety of a Hummer and the ability to tackle most terrains. I would highly recommend this SUV to anyone.

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  Review from a real hummer h3 owner... - 2006 Hummer H3
  By ProspectKyHummerH3 - August 25 - 4:33 pm

  Just a note that many of these negative H3 reviews should be disregarded, as most of them are NOT really H3 owners...just HUMMER haters. I have owned my Boulder Grey H3 for a month and a half and have enjoyed EVERY minute of it. I have not had ONE single problem with it either. Those that complain of the engines power...did you test drive it or read any of the reviews? I will give up a little power for improved gas mileage...especially now. I have the lux pkg., and it rides incredibly smooth. I dont know of any "actual" owner who has said that it is a rough ride. Everyone that has ridden in mine has been impressed with the handling and the finishing on the interior and exterior.