Cars.com Reviews the 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha...With Video
Hummer advertises its H3 as a fuel-sipper, at least by comparison to some other SUVs on the road. That might’ve been true of the five-cylinder base model, but for 2008 the SUV gets a hearty V-8 engine that finally makes the H3 Alpha fun to drive — and guzzles more gas than a Chevy Suburban. Is the trade-off worth it? Mike Hanley tells us in his full review at the link and in the video below.
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Don't know if this was mentioned here before but, the 5.3 liter V8 will also be available in the 2008 GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado in early '08.
I'm not sure what the point of the H3 is. I think it's for people who really don't do their homework and think their is prestige that goes along with the Hummer name (or for GM employees who get a discount). I'm sure that the Alpha pushes mid 40s in price and it doesn't offer much room. I think GM had the right idea when they developed the Inline 5 but dropping a small V8 into the otherwise underpowered vehicle isn't the answer. They'll make the same mistake in the Colorado/Canyon without a major overhaul. I suggest a midsize build with unibody construction, much like the Ridgeline.
bowrider,
"I suggest a midsize build with unibody construction, much like the Ridgeline."
But then people are gonna start complaining that is not a real Hummer just like they complain that the Ridgeline is not a real "Truck". There are just some people not willing to take changes and likes to complain.
But I do agree with you making unibody construction, since it does uses a bit less fuel.
Well, I was actually referring to the Canyon/Colorado trucks. But, I understand you're point with the Hummer.
GM's mistake was the lack of 5 speed automatic when the H3 was launched. (GM could have used the 5L40 with the 3.5 I5)
Now the 3.7 should have a 6 speed automatic. 6L45 or 50
The V8 & 4 speed auto is just a distraction.
I still think the H3 is a toy in drag.
The REAL story is the V-8 in the compact pickups. Think about it, Ford's still got the ancient Ranger, and Toyota and Nissan only offer V-6's.
So this will be big in the commercial vehicle market. I wonder what the tow ratings are?
I went to the Cadillac dealer this weekend to trade my 03 CTS for a new 08 CTS and saw the H3 Alpha. So, for kicks, I rented an H3 for the weekend and was surprisingly impressed with the comfort and feel of the H3. The seats hug and support, the Monsoon sound system is excellent, the V8 is throaty (although equally thirsty) and the view is great. It's a fun ride that I definitely could live with driving around town during the week and in the country on the weekend. My daughters think it "rocks". I would like to see more toys; Vehicle Info/Nav System, delayed exterior lighting, cooled seats not just heated and remote start as facotry options but then again it's a truck not a Cadillac. I don't think it's very prestigious... just a lot of fun. Would have never considered this vehicle before driving it. That's enough "homework" for me even with my relatives' GM discount.