The Hummer H3, evolving from the original HUMVEE (High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle) M998 in 1992 and the subsequent Hummer H2 in 2001, arrived in the second quarter of 2005. The H3 distinguishes itself with a Vortec 3.5L inline cylinder engine, delivering 220 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 225 lb.-ft. of torque at 2800 rpm. Offering around 20 MPG, it was the first Hummer to provide buyers with a choice between manual and automatic transmissions.
Equipped with 4-wheel drive and a fully locking rear differential, the Hummer H3 ensures reliability and safety through underbody shielding, traction control, and GM’s StabiliTrak vehicle-stability enhancement system. It can navigate through 16 inches of water at 20 mph or 24 inches at 5 mph. The H3 is also capable of climbing 16-inch steps and rocks and offers Bridgestone 33-inch or Goodyear 32-inch all-terrain tire options.
Optional interior features include heated leather seats, front bucket seats, 60/40 split rear seats, an electric sliding sunroof, and a DVD-based navigation radio. It also boasts four audio systems compatible with GM’s OnStar system and XM satellite radio, power windows and door locks with lockout protection, an electric rear window defogger, power-adjustable manual folding rearview mirrors, a self-dimming rearview mirror with compass and outside temperature indicator, and three 12-volt covered auxiliary power outlets.
The Hummer H3’s 4-wheel drive system utilizes a Borg-Warner two-speed, electrically controlled, full-time system with a 2.64:1 low-range gear reduction ratio, and an alternate version offering a 4.03:1 ratio for enhanced obstacle-climbing control. Both versions provide versatile operating modes for diverse driving conditions.
With enhanced off-road capabilities compared to the H1 and H2, the H3 features a 37-foot turning cycle, 9.1-inch ground clearance, a 25-degree maximum breakover angle (with 33-inch tires), a 40-degree maximum approach angle, and a 37-degree maximum departure angle.
The H3’s frame and suspension consist of a modular three-piece frame for added strength. It incorporates an independent torsion bar front suspension and semi-elliptical leaf springs in the rear. Skid plates protect the steering links, with optional chassis-bolted rocker panel protectors available.
The H3 includes ABS traction control and braking systems, along with pinion steering at a 17:1 ratio. The anti-lock braking system features Dynamic Rear Proportioning for improved rear braking control during emergency stops. Traction control integrates with engine controls and the braking system to maximize traction and minimize wheel spin.
Exterior features include a rear swing gate with fixed glass, a standard rear wiper and defogger, and a swing gate-mounted spare tire to maximize interior cargo space. It also has stamped-steel front and rear bumper bars, standard front tow hooks, and welded-on rear bumper recovery hooks.
Safety features include a reinforced passenger compartment safety cage, a fully welded ladder-type frame, a standard front dual airbag system, optional rail-mounted side-curtain airbags, daytime running lamps, remote keyless entry, battery rundown protection, an electronic tire pressure monitoring system, and an anti-theft vehicle security system.
While the Hummer H3 may not have made as big a splash as its predecessors, it offers maneuverability in city traffic while maintaining considerable off-road capabilities.