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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Unmatched Turning Radius - 2006 Hummer H3
By Jim C - May 31 - 7:46 amNever thought Id even consider buying another GM after past experiences with inexcusable poor quality. But the H3 seems to be made a LOT better than GMs of past years. Lack of power issue doesnt bother me much since I live in flat FL, but I do doubt that I wouldve bought this thing if I lived in a state with mountain highways. Its a head-turner, many people have commented that they like it better than the H2 for all kinds of reasons. If youre looking for a mid-size SUV that has high-end appeal without the high sticker price, Id recommend it. (Warning; Bank drive-thrus are a problem due to height of doors - long arms required, otherwise you have to climb halfway out the window.
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We love our Hummer! - 2006 Hummer H3
By Mike L. - March 3 - 8:33 amWe replaced a 2003 GMC Envoy and were considering the Jeep Commander. My wife suggested the H3, which I had not even considered. We wanted to lease a vehicle that was safe, reliable and unique. The Commander was all those things and about $7,000 less. But with the H3 having such a higher residual than the Jeep, the lease payment was less and we have a lot more equipment than the stripped down Commander. Plus, the DVD special was perfect for us as we have an 18-month old. He loves riding in it!!!
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Hummer3 - 2006 Hummer H3
By bfmcr - February 27 - 11:33 pmI have owned BMW, Mercedes, etc. over the years. The Hummer has provided me with the most fun that I have even had in a vehicle. It is fun to drive, comfortable, and a real attention getter. I bought it as a second vehicle, but I have not driven my other car over one or two times since bringing this baby home. My 11 y.o absolutely loves it.
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Needs more power!!! - 2006 Hummer H3
By DAVID CORNIER - February 10 - 1:26 pmThe one negative thing i have to say about the h3 is while driving up a incline on a highway speed about 60mph the h3 felt like it was having trouble i had to really give it extra gas !!
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Like nothing else - 2006 Hummer H3
By Hummerlite - February 8 - 1:26 amBeen Driving this truck for a few months now ( 11,000 miles ) and still cant wait to get in a drive it.... Fun to drive with the 5 speed trans, Great on the beach, in the snow, Anywhere.... GREAT TRUCK
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Hummer H3 - 2006 Hummer H3
By Mark - January 11 - 8:23 amThe Hummer is a exciting suv to drive. It has a tight turning radius. But the engine lacks power, especially when towing. Otherwise it seems to have adequate power although I would like to see GM up the horsepower to 275 or more. The ride with the off road package has been great especially off road. It also rides well on paved roads as well. Visibilty is low, but on the outside it looks great with the chopped look. It handles very well on snow covered roads.
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My H3 Rocks - 2006 Hummer H3
By Randy - December 10 - 5:26 pmThis is a great mid-size SUV. I had a 01 Toyota 4Runner and that was a good car, but this car is more stylish, fun and rides smoother. Im glad that I made an impulse buy!
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Satisfied Customer - 2006 Hummer H3
By Matt - December 5 - 5:13 pmI just purchased the vehicle a couple days back and its been amazing so far. I sold my Volvo XC90 and Im very glad I did Im enjoying the H3 much more. Everyone I know has been giving me compliments about the design on the inside and outside. The only thing I can compare it to is my old SUV the Volvo and there is no comparison there this H3 is simply much better. Its a better drive on road, a better look, and better off-road. I had so many problems with replacing Volvo parts and their service was terrible it feels good to have an American vehicle now. I have a feeling I will be sticking with Hummer vehicles for a long time after this one.
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I Love My Hummer - 2006 Hummer H3
By Jerry Bundt - November 29 - 12:36 amThis is an absolutely awesome vehicle. It truly commands the road. A superbly smooth highway ride even with the off-road package. Very stylish inside and out! Yes, could use better gas mileage, more rear storage, and more pep, but driving this dream machine out weighs ANY drawbacks.
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H3 excellent value - 2006 Hummer H3
By abj - November 24 - 8:56 pmThe H3 is and outstanding value at 28K. I purchased this vehicle in June of 2005, and I am still impressed with the performace of this SUV. The MPG is better than anticipated. I have owned and purchased the following SUVs new: Expedition, Xterra, Explorer and X5, none of which handles the road/highway as good as the H3.
