HUMMER H2 Review

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 be, the Hummer H2's large size and U.S. military Humvee-inspired styling still make it stand out like a sweaty heavyweight prizefighter attending a Friday-night knitting class. It's extremely capable when taken off-road and easy to customize with factory options and dealer accessories. When examined solely on these merits, the H2 seems like a stellar pick for an SUV.

Unfortunately, it's burdened with some design flaws that make it ill-suited for everyday use. Though smaller than the original Hummer, it's still quite bulky and heavy. This poses 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 suffers from a less-than-competitive amount of cargo space, a short list of luxury features and, with the exception of the newest versions, mediocre interior materials.

For the right type of buyer, the Hummer H2's strengths will outweigh its negatives. Those with a true need for Herculean off-road ability in open terrain or for towing a rolling billboard for a small business will find it endearing. For everyone else, our editors believe there are better choices available for a large, luxury-oriented SUV.

Current Hummer H2

The Hummer H2 unmistakably apes its bigger H1 brother's styling, though nearly all of its hardware comes from other GM truck products. Under the hood is a 393-horsepower, 6.0-liter V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission. Power is directed to the truck's meaty tires through a full-time dual-range transfer case. Advanced features include a driver-selectable rear differential locker and a drive-by-wire throttle setup that changes sensitivity when low-range gearing is selected.

In our reviews, we've found that the Hummer H2 has 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 can roll over just about any type of terrain without getting stuck or damaged. On tight trails, however, it can be difficult to maneuver, as its body is quite wide.

In urban environments, such as densely packed city streets, the H2's width is a distinct liability. Its considerable height also creates large blind spots and prevents it from being parked in some garages. Inside, the H2 offers comfortable seating for five passengers. An additional third-row seat is also available, as are second-row captain's chairs. Compared to other top large luxury SUVs, however, it is more difficult to enter and exit the H2.

Used Hummer H2 Models

The Hummer H2 debuted for the 2003 model year and was originally powered by a 6.0-liter V8 good for 316 hp and 360 pound-feet of torque. It was connected to a four-speed automatic transmission. Limited changes over its first few years included the arrival of an optional DVD-based navigation system in 2005. Significant changes were made for 2008, principally the replacement of the 6.0-liter engine with the now-current 6.2-liter V8 (and six-speed automatic). Also, in response to criticism of the H2's interior quality, a revamped cabin debuted with new seats, a redesigned dash and better materials and switchgear. Model year '09 saw the arrival of optional second-row captain's chairs and a new third-row-seat storage option that frees up more interior space.