Review

Review: Hummer H3 (2007-09)

2 stars

  • Off-road capability
  • Relatively small turning circle
  • Engine lacks torque and refinement
  • Suspension lacks low-speed compliance
  • Cramped interior for its size
  • Poor dynamics

Overview

Released in October 2007, the Hummer H3 was a five seat wagon with a dual-range, full-time four wheel drive system. Manufactured in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, the H3 was powered by a 3.7-litre inline five-cylinder petrol engine mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, the H3 range consisted of three variants: an unnamed, entry-level variant, the Adventure and Luxury.

The 3.7-litre LLR (or Vortec 3700) Atlas petrol engine had an aluminium block and cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), four valves per cylinder, variable exhaust valve timing and a compression ratio of 10.0:1. Transmission choices consisted of five-speed Aisin manual and four-speed 4L60E HydraMatic automatic units.

The H3 was 4778 mm long, 1989 mm wide, 1872 mm tall and had a 2841 mm long wheelbase; kerb weight ranged from 2178 kg to 2268 kg. Inside, cargo volume was 835 litres with the rear seats in position, though this increased to 1577 litres when the rear seats were folded.

With its ladder frame chassis, the H3 had torsion beam front suspension and a live rear axle with leaf springs. In its standard form, the H3 had 216 mm of ground clearance with a 60 per cent grade capability, 40 per cent side slope capability and a 610 mm fording depth. The Adventure variant, however was further equipped with off-road suspension, an electronic rear differential lock, a shorter low range gear reduction ratio (4.03:1) and an additional skid plate over the oil pan.

Hummer H3 specifications
Variants Engine Trans. Peak power Peak torque
N/A,
Adventure
3.7-litre petrol I5 4sp auto,
5sp man.
180 kW at 5600 rpm 328 Nm at 4600 rpm
Luxury 3.7-litre petrol I5 4sp auto

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Hummer H3 included dual front airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic stability control and traction control.

Features

Standard Hummer H3 features included 16-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with a CD player and MP3-compatibility, air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power mirrors and windows, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel, compass, 12 volt power outlets, roof rails, tow bar and immobiliser.

The H3 Adventure was further equipped with a seven speaker Monsoon sound system (including subwoofer) with a six-disc CD player, leathers seats and power adjustable front seats with heating. Finally, the H3 Luxury was distinguished by its cashmere leather trim and power sunroof.

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