GM has blessed Australian with the Hummer H2/H3. The H2 is the more hardcore of the two (even though half the car is still plastic). The H3 on the other hand is actually affordable, and given the Hummer badging and image, there has been quite some interest in the car.
However the problem with the H3 (apart from the obvious – Hummer factor) is that the current model (set to go on sale in the next few months) will be available with only a 3.7-litre inline five-cylinder petrol engine, producing peak power of 180kW @ 5600rpm and peak torque of 328Nm@4600rpm. Now that might sound like a lot of power till you realize that the weight to power distribution is the equivalent of a miniature pony pulling Kim Beazly up a hill. Not that great.
However there is a new Hummer H3 coming out next year, the Hummer H3 Alpha, powered by an engine more suited to the Hummer image, the 5.3L V8 engine puts out 224 kW and 438 Nm.
Being a GM car, it comes with an ancient four-speed automatic transmission. However GM argues that the four-speed is there to allow for a maximum towing capacity of 2,721 kg.
“H3 Alpha is, simply, the ultimate Hummer H3, it delivers all of H3′s renowned off-road capability, but with enhanced performance that is suited to a variety of lifestyles.” said Martin Walsh, Hummer general manager.
It is obvious that the majority of these Hummers will never once set foot off-road. In fact, it is expected that the H3 will be popular with adventures females in their 30s who want a car that expresses their personality as they drive around the city and to and from work.
So with that in mind, Hummer have equipped the H3 Alpha with the
- “Luxury” equipment package,
- the Chrome Appearance package,
- 16-inch chrome wheels,
- 4.10 rear axle ratio
- Hummer H3 Alpha badging, such as a tailgate badge, horn pad badge and embroidered front headrests with the “Alpha” insignia.
But if thats not enough to satisfy your ego and make all your friends hate you, there is always the option for such other ridiculous things such as
- bright roof crossbows,
- chrome fuel door,
- a body-colour grille
- unique spare tyre cover, tyres, wheels and center cap, and a brush guard.
We beg those who are looking at buying a Hummer to sleep on it a few nights and have a good think about what a Hummer REALLY says about your personality. Does a H3 really tell the world that you are independent, brave and bold? We really don’t think so.
“Because Hummer stands for more than just off-road performance, the H3 Alpha builds on the style and refinement of the H3 lineup and offers a unique, instantly recognisable statement on the road. In short, the H3 Alpha matches Hummer’s off-road expectations with on-road attitude.” said Martin Walsh, Hummer general manager.
As you can see the guys at Hummer are well aware that this car is 99% about image 1% about the need for a box shaped car and 0% for off road activities.
