Hummer emboldens its 2008 H2 and H3 lineups by offering new V8 engines that provide greater towing capacities and better all-around performance. The full-size H2 also gets a brand new and more refined interior, as well as additional standard safety features. For the smaller H3 midsize SUV, Hummer designates the new V-8 powered version the H3 Alpha, but continues to offer the five-cylinder engine in the base H3 model.
The most significant update to the H2 SUV and Sport Utility Truck (SUT) is the powertrain, as a new 6.2-liter V-8 engine has been coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. This all-aluminum motor with variable valve timing produces 393 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and a stout 415 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm- vast improvements over the 325 horsepower and 365 pound-feet available from the previous iron-block 6.0-liter V-8.
Compared with the previous-generation four-speed automatic transmission, the new Hydra-Matic six allows greater performance and efficiency thanks to better-optimized gears.
Hummer says towing capacity increases 1,700 pounds, from 6,500 pounds to 8,200 pounds.
Hummer H2 drivers get to appreciate the more powerful drivetrain in a fully modernized interior space. A reworked six-gauge instrument panel, new door panels, updated switchgear and expanded HVAC outlets define and accent the new cabin. A third row is available to accommodate two additional passengers and a rear-seat DVD system provides entertainment.
Climate control vents have been integrated into the rear of the H2 as standard equipment.
New seats are designed to provide comfort and a “chiseled” look, according to Hummer”s design team. Front seat belts now anchor to the H2’s B-pillar, rather than the seats themselves, allowing engineers more freedom in creating the new chairs.
A full safety network protects passengers in the 2008 Hummer H2. New features are first, second and third (if applicable) row curtains airbags with rollover sensing technology, first row seatbelt pretensioners, electronic stability control with rollover mitigation, traction control, tire pressure monitoring and panic brake assist. The advanced braking system is a first for a General Motors truck or SUV, and is capable of sensing emergency braking situations and applying the binders to maximize stopping force.
Finally, OnStar is available with Turn-By-Turn navigation, and a rearview camera is offered. Remote starting is convenient for heating or cooling the H2 in extreme climate situations for more comfortable driving.
The smaller H3 SUV is joined by an all-new model: the H3 Alpha. Power in the Alpha is derived from a 5.3-liter V8 engine, yielding 300 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 320 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Base H3 models continued to be driven by a 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder good for 242 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque. Alpha models with the V8 shift via a four-speed automatic transmission that is optional on five-cylinder H3s. However, the five-speed manual transmission fitted to the 3.7-liter engine as standard is not offered in conjunction with the V-8.
The Alpha”s all-aluminum engine is similar to the powerplant found in the Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, and allows a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds in the Hummer application. Equipped with the five-cylinder engine, H3s manage to pull a maximum of 4,500 pounds.
A special oil pan helps maintain appropriate pressure and lubrication properties even on steep grades, and a new steering system provides better sensation on the road and reliability off-road. The Alpha”s front differential is made of cast iron, unlike the aluminum unit used in base H3 models.
The entire H3 lineup receives head-curtain airbags as standard equipment in 2008; previously they were included optionally. Electronic stability control, front airbags with passenger sensing, tire pressure monitoring and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and traction control are also standard.
All Alpha models are fitted with the Chrome Appearance package, Luxury equipment package, 16-inch chrome wheels, a 4.10:1 rear axle and unique “Alpha” badging on the tailgate, front seat headrests and steering wheel horn pad.
Through the first six months of 2007, Hummer sales have declined 17.3 percent compared with 2006. Last year the H3 was hot, and sales of the small SUV have fallen 12.8 percent by around 3,000 units. However, a nearly 30-percent and 2,500-unit drop in H2 sales this year has also contributed to the volume loss. Hummer is clearly banking on customers who will be attracted to more power and utility, despite $3.00-plus gasoline prices. Both the 2008 H2 and H3 Alpha certainly provide no shortage of on-road thrust and off-road prowess.
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