by
Jeff
Voth
Hummer
H3 is considered by many to be the runt of the Hummer
litter. It is smaller and more agile than either
the mighty H2 or the original H1 and possesses a
style suited for everyday driving.
But
looks can be deceiving and Hummer DNA runs through
the H3 from top to bottom. Not to be taken lightly,
it is capable of handling the worst road conditions,
while at the same time being equally competent around
town or on the highway.
The
H3 is powered by a Vortec 3500 in-line, 5-cylinder
engine. Mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or
the optional Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic, it delivers
220 hp @ 5600 rpm and 225 lb.ft. of torque @ 2800
rpm.
Driving
the baby Hummer is easy. Built on a fully welded
steel frame, the H3 offers power-assisted rack-and-pinion
steering, independent front suspension and a hardy
multi-leaf rear suspension setup. Resting on monotube
gas-charged shocks, it presents a smooth riding
experience comparable to any mid-size SUV in the
market.
It
may be surprise for you to learn the H3 has a 2 ft. smaller
turning radius than the 2006 Volvo XC90. A stunning
achievement given that Volvo is considered one of
the best at making their vehicles turn on the spot.
A
2-speed transfer case is the basis of the H3's electronically
controlled full-time 4WD system. Add the available
Off-Road Suspension Package and the H3 is capable
of handling even the most formidable off-road pursuits.
The Hummer H3 comes standard with a traction
control system. The system applies additional brake pressure to the
appropriate wheel with the capability to control
a single wheel and electronically lock the rear
differential.
Brakes
are 4-wheel disc with ABS. Front brakes offer 4-piston
caliper stopping power, while the rear highlight
a single-piston sliding rear caliper with Dynamic
Rear Proportioning for improved braking. This translates
into excellent stopping power for a vehicle weighing
in at a hefty 4,700 lbs. Not one to shy away from
hauling a trailer or boat, the H3 will tow up to
a maximum of 4,500 lbs and carry a payload of 1,150
lbs.
Sitting
high above the ground the H3 rides on 32" wheels
and P265/75R16 all-terrain tires. Even more extreme,
ordering the optional Off-Road Suspension Package
will increase wheel size to a whopping 33"
and add P285/75R16 al-terrain tires.
Inside,
the Hummer H3 is all business in how it approaches
the driver and passenger experience.
A
four spoke steering wheel offers manual tilt adjustability.
Electronic cruise control is activated from a series
of buttons on the steering. It's simple to use
and provides the benefit of allowing the driver
to keep their eyes fixed firmly on the road ahead.
Large round gauges provide excellent feedback and
sit recessed under an oversized, rectangular hood
to keep out unwanted glare.
A central console contains all HVAC controls for the H3. The console has Round dials coordinate fan speed, temperature settings and airflow direction. Two A/C adapters offer plug and play power for various electronic accessories.
Standard equipment also consists of an AM/FM stereo with CD player, speed-compensated volume control and 6 speakers. Stereo options include an in-dash 6-disc CD with 7 Monsoon speakers or a CD player with MP3 playback.
Seats are fully reclining front buckets, with rear seating for three. The driver's seat offers manual lumbar support, while the rear seats fold in a 60/40 split. Leather is optional and includes heated front seats with 8-way power adjustment.
The Hummer H3's occupant safety features consist of three-point seat belts for all passengers, along with dual front airbags with passenger sensing. Optional protection offers a head curtain air bag for improved side impact safety.
Power windows, outside mirrors, keyless entry and a one year OnStar subscription are standard along with fog lights, deep-tinted rear glass and a roof rack with side rails.
The 2006 Hummer H3 may be petite when compared to the larger and more powerful H1 and H2, but it should not be underestimated as a potential off-road champ. Possessing enough outward chic to be taken seriously as a Hummer, but sized for city driving, it deserves consideration when choosing your next mid-size SUV.
For more information visit the Hummer website here. |
2006 Hummer H3 |
Description: |
Mid-size SUV |
Wheelbase: |
111.9 in |
Overall length: |
186.7 in |
Engine size: |
Vortec 3500 |
Transmission: |
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Hydra-Matic |
Steering: |
Power-assisted rack and pinion |
Braking: |
Power 4-wheel disc, 4-wheel ABS |
Air bags: |
2 (front) |
Fuel mileage city/hwy: |
18/26 (23 gallon tank capacity) |
MSRP: |
$ 29,500- $ 32,730 |