The 2008 Hummer H3 is a carryover from its introduction in 2006, but with a new V8 power plant under the hood. The H3 is a midsized SUV that brings all the rugged talents and unmistakable visual attitude of its bigger brothers to the driving experience. That aforementioned V8 is just part of an all-new Alpha package for the H3, which includes deluxe interior appointments, Monsoon sound system, and a lower rear end ratio than that of the base H3.
The base engine is a 242 horsepower, 3.7 liter inline 5 cylinder engine that spins out 242 pound feet of torque. The Alpha trim comes outfitted with a 5.3 liter V-8, churning out 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. There are two available transmissions: a standard 5-speed manual and an optional 4-speed automatic.
Every H3 is equipped with full-time all-wheel drive. Towing on the new H3 Alpha is 6000 pounds and EPA mileage estimates are 13 miles per gallon in the city and 16, highway. Fuel economy for the inline-5 is 13 city and 18 highway.
Inside, there is adequate seating for five adults. The quality of the materials is first-rate. The control layout is clean and easy to operate. Cargo capacity is 29.5 cubic feet with the rear seat in place and 55.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.
Standard equipment on all H3's includes skid plates, fog lights, On-Star, PASSlock security system, power windows and locks and remote keyless entry. There's an extensive list of options...everything from an extra low gear transfer case to satellite radio and leather upholstery.
The base MSRP of the 2008 Hummer H3 is $30,595. The V8-equipped H3 Alpha will cost around $40,000. That price includes a 5 year, 100,000 mile transferable no-deductible power train warranty with courtesy transportation and 24/7 roadside assistance.
The 2008 H3 offers all the durability and off-road equipment that is synonymous with Hummer, but in a smaller, more urbane package. Now with the added V8 power of the H3 Alpha, navigating even the toughest off-road conditions in the H3 has become a whole lot easier.