2008 GM Hummer H2 SUV
A Surprisingly Friendly Vehicle
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SPECS
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The Hummer is self-explanatory and obviously elicits variable responses from lookers. We happen to like the Hummer sisters and are particularly fond of the H3. In fact, we're eagerly awaiting the coming of the H4 should it be made one day.
A monstrosity of a vehicle, the Hummer H2 is surprisingly straight forward to drive. Parallel parking, I found, wasn't as difficult as assumed and occurred on the first try! Everything about the Hummer H2, though, is huge. Driving the H2 isn't as daunting as one may think. We even braved highway driving in the H2 during some pretty fierce wind here in Chicago. Although one must pay attention to the road and steering lest the H2 wander, being top heavy didn't feel nerve racking.
The H2 is very quiet, despite the wind noise from an unusually windy day, and comfortable. Seating is plentiful and relaxing, and of course, legroom is not a concern.
For 2008, GM has added all-new interior features, more refined than before, and an all-new instrument panel, new seating and a full third row.
Hummer H2's 6.2-liter V8 engine is also new for 2008 and combined with the six-speed automatic transmission delivers more power and is more efficient. Towing capacity has been increased to 8,200 pounds which will please the boat and camper owners.
Competing with the likes of the Range Rover, Lexus LX470 and Lincoln Navigator, the H2 has a look and feel all its own. When you could drive a Hummer why would you want to get into a Lincoln Navigator? There is nothing unique about H2's competitors. After all, there is no mistaking a Hummer for something else.
The H2 is available in two trim levels: H2 and H2 SUT with the same V8 engine and six-speed transmission with electronically-controlled automatic overdrive with driver shift control.
Some of the standard equipment on the H2 includes full-time 4WD, 17-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires with a full-spare, leather-trimmed interior, dual front air bags, OnStar, Bose premium 9-speaker audio system with XM Satellite Radio and Bose 5.1 surround sound, sunroof, Chrome appearance package, overhead rear-DVD system and rear-vision system.
We found the rear-vision system especially helpful and needed since blind spots abound in the H2 with the rear seat headrests. It neatly pops out of the side of the rearview mirror when the car goes into reverse.
The OnStar system comes with a1-year activation and includes directions with turn-by-turn navigation. Hands-free calling works with a built-in, voice-activated system making it safe to use. Just by the touch of a button, you can alert OnStar to get directions, fun a GM Goodwrench diagnostic check, or ask for a restaurant recommendation. Dialing hands-free is particularly appealing.
Although the fuel economy was missing on the Monroney, we're guessing that if you're driving an H2 you don't have to ask. It doesn't really matter.
Options on our H2 SUV included the Luxury Chrome Appearance Package (chrome aluminum hood handles, chrome aluminum hood latches, bright door sill plates, carpeted floor mats, rear/front, AM/FM stereo w/MP3 compatible CD/DVD player, autotone radio data system with auxiliary input jack, premium Bose audio system, nine speakers with surround sound, third row seat, 2 passenger, 17" polished aluminum wheels, rear vision system, rear seat entertainment system, power sunroof, $6,410); and Solar Flare Metallic paint ($295).
The H2's paint color Solar Flare Metallic is a special, optional paint color resembling copper paints of the 1970s, but with a tad more orange. It was attractive in the H2 and very visible.
Reviewed by Susan Frissell, Womenwithwheels.com